Working at the Boothbay Animal Hospital, I’ve gotten a taste of what the veterinary medicine field is really about. I’ve learned that being a veterinarian requires many skills beyond patience and love of animals.

Throughout my time at the animal hospital, I’ve seen the work and practices of all forms of medical treatments performed on different species of animals. From cat spays to leg amputations, working as a veterinarian is a constantly changing experience with a new opportunity to learn at every corner.

Unlike a desk job, you’re constantly seeing clients. I’ve seen a range of simple wellness exams to a cancerous leg amputation; there’s a new experience in store every day.

But keep in mind, veterinary medicine can be a stressful environment; it’s not all about the cute, cuddly puppies. One must be prepared to take life or death risks and be able to be down to earth with their clients or, in other words, “give the bad news.”

But the practice can be very rewarding. The bond between a doctor and client, along with the satisfaction of seeing a patient get better, makes it all worth the while.

I highly suggest to any student interested in going into the veterinary medicine field to try a program such as work study, where one can get the experience and “taste” of what being a veterinarian is all about. A strong-willed mind and a compassion for animals is all it really takes to thrive in a field like this.