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I suspect
for many of you that this time of year is a bit hectic.
I know that is the case for me.
There is
so much to do during the holidays, decorating the house
(I'm still not done), shopping (I need to start),
planning for gatherings, cooking, and the list goes on.
With so much going on, I must remind myself to stop and
reflect on all the true blessings I have in my life, and
there are many I know I share with you.
One of
these blessings is my work. I cannot imagine a better
job than one that involves working with people and their
companions. The human-animal bond is one of the greatest
gifts we have, and to be able to work in an environment
that displays these special relationships is priceless.
Can you
imagine how wonderful it is to be able to help bring an
animal back to health when faced with illness?
To be
able to be part of something that brings such happiness
to the people who deeply love animals is without
compare.
Not all
times are joyous. Sometimes, we are unable to restore a
patient's health. There are times when a decision must
be made to let a pet go. Even then, I am reminded of how
tremendous the relationships we have with our pets can
be. There is no more unselfish act of true love than to
make the choice to end our pet's life, to sever a bond
as great as any, knowing in your heart that it is best
for them. And to be part of this ultimate expression is
yet another special part of being a veterinarian.
This past
year I was forced to make that very decision. To let my
dog Al go was the most difficult decision I have ever
made. Having been involved in so many similar situations
with clients, I thought I would be prepared; I was not.
I agonized. Knowing all along what I needed to do, I
finally looked my dog in the eyes, gave him an
injection, then, as the tears clouded my eyes, I kissed
him goodbye.
Take a
moment during these busy times to reflect on all that
our pets mean to us and all the priceless memories we
have because of them.
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