Getting a new puppy is always an exciting time. You are bringing a new bundle of joy into your life, one that should give you lots of love and happiness over the next few years.

Fur. Feathers. Scales. Paws. Beaks. Claws. In the past 6 years of which I have been a Registered Veterinary Technician, I have experienced such a large number of the aforementioned types of animals I've lost count. All have crossed my path due to differing circumstances, whether it be their unfortunate ill health or their exciting first chapter with a new family. But each one was special.

All my life, my jobs have been considered essential. I've worked in horse barns, at dog kennels, and at veterinary clinics. Even in snow storms with a Ford Fiesta, I made the trek to work to take care of the animals. Never in a million years did I expect essential to include working during a global pandemic.

It is essential to stay on top of your pet's health by getting thorough annual wellness exams and routine vaccinations. A pet wellness exam is key to your pet's good health. Preventative care can protect your pet from illnesses and diseases, as well as catch any pending illnesses before they become more serious.

Currently, I work as a full time veterinary surgical technician. I'm not licensed, I didn't go to a special school or go through a special program. I didn't even have a lot of experience or training in the field when I was hired. I was trained solely at the clinic I work at. I have put in a lot of hours, including unpaid hours at home, learning skills to make me a good technician, and let me tell you, I am a DAMN good veterinary technician.

The new year's just passed. And it won't be too long before another event in your city will start shooting off fireworks to celebrate. So many dogs are terrified of fireworks. It's not just the small breeds. True, some dogs don't care. But some, like my lovely Labrador puppy, whimper, run, and hide from the sound of firecrackers.

Sunday October 13, 2019 8:05 AM: Looking back on the above picture I remember that night perfectly. The ICU was full and my triage nurse was up to her ears in emergencies. This beautiful Galah parrot was brought into my ER due to a bad wing trim. I was the ICU Nurse and Shift Supervisor that night. The owner did not want to part with her baby and my triage nurse explained to me that the bird was visibly in pain.

First of all, I would like to inform you that most of these symptoms will result in needing immediate attention from a vet. So, rule of thumb, take your pet for regular check ups, keep your vet's phone number on your fridge or in your emergency contacts list.

Most pet owners only see veterinary interactions from one view, the view of the pet owner. I have been a veterinary technician for five years and I have seen veterinary interactions from the view of the tech and the owner. There are several things done by the pet owner that SHOULD be avoided at all costs. These things are not just to benefit the technician and veterinarian, but to allow for the entire visit for the patient, owner, and staff to be smooth and effective.

Having worked in the veterinary field for the last 4 years as a veterinary nurse, I’ve come to realize that there are certain trends that become glaringly apparent when you take a look at pet owners as a group.

Let me clarify that MOST veterinarians are not trying to steal your money. I have worked in general practice and emergency, and both are expensive, even if your pet isn’t sick and it is just wellness with some vaccines. I have seen so many people become upset and angry when they get to the front and are about to pay, which is understandable, but having a pet is not cheap, and no one said it was! Especially when something goes wrong with your pet and you don’t have insurance or extra money on the side.

A lot of people think that working with animals is all snuggles and kisses. Well, they are ALL wrong. While veterinary hospitals and clinics do see baby animals like puppies and kittens they also see a lot more than that. This job is mentally, physically and emotionally draining. If you are considering entering this field please think twice.