Insights from a Veterinary Professional: What More People Need to Understand

As a veterinary nurse, my work is often misunderstood, and I wish to clarify some common misconceptions. From the often-overlooked behavior issues to the crucial diagnostic processes, here are a few key points that I hope will enlighten pet owners and the community at large.

Anatomy of a Veterinary Profession

Costs:

Many clients are surprised by the high costs in veterinary care. This is because the equipment and medications used are of medical grade and often equivalent to those used in human medicine, which can be quite expensive. The costs of such treatments are not covered by the government, like in human healthcare in Australia, and therefore, it's the responsibility of the client to cover them. Failing to do so can create a strained relationship between the veterinarian and the pet owner.

The Role of a Veterinary Nurse

There is a common misconception that veterinary nurses are merely ‘assisting’ or ‘supporting’ veterinarians. However, the reality is quite different. In many ways, veterinary nurses are the backbone of a veterinary practice. They are responsible for monitoring anesthesia, assisting in surgeries and medical cases, taking blood samples, offering behavioral advice, and much more. Unlike what many assume, they are not "just" in any capacity; their roles are diverse and vital.

Addressing Misunderstandings and Misconceptions

Cruelty and Money-Grubbing:

When a pet owner can't afford treatment and blames the veterinary clinic, it can be a difficult situation. However, it's important to remember that veterinarians are professionals with their own lives and families to support. They have a duty of care to provide basic care, such as pain relief, and can give clients options, including euthanasia. Still, this does not mean they must provide treatments for free. If a client cannot afford it, they must consider the welfare of the pet and accept the consequences.

It's also commonly assumed that veterinarians, as well as veterinary nurses and techs, make a lot of money. However, this is not necessarily the case. Like any business, the practice must run as a business to stay afloat. It's a profession that requires extensive education and training, and the costs associated with these expenses are often not reflected in the fees charged to clients.

Understanding Canine Behavior

One of the main issues we face is the misunderstanding of canine behavior. Dogs have been selectively bred over generations to be domesticated, which means they no longer exhibit as many wild behaviors as their wolf ancestors. However, this does not mean that they are devoid of natural instincts. These instincts, if ignored, can lead to behavioral problems. For a dog to be well-behaved and a good fit for a family, it requires clear, firm, and consistent training from a young age. It is the responsibility of the owner to put in the necessary time to ensure their dog is well-behaved and not to blame the dog for any behavioral issues that arise from lack of training.

Uncontrolled behavior can often be linked to a lack of training and management. For example, allowing a puppy to play with you in an inappropriate manner, not correcting them when they are teething or displaying excessive energy can lead to a full-grown dog that is difficult to manage. Failure to train a dog can result in aggressive behavior, excessive barking, and other problematic behaviors. It's important to remember that a dog, like any other pet, requires an investment of time and commitment. This includes providing food, shelter, exercise, training, medical care, and, most importantly, attention and companionship. Dogs are social animals, and they do not do well when left alone for long periods of time.

Conclusion

Ultimately, pet owners need to realize that their pets require a significant amount of time, effort, and dedication. A pet is not just a toy or a temporary companion but a being that deserves love, care, and respect. By understanding the true nature and requirements of our pets, we can ensure they lead happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. It's a responsibility that comes with great joy and responsibility, and one that should not be taken lightly.