Melissa M
Strolling the yard
Why?
When I arrive at 6:30am to find that the kennel attendant has quit without notice, and that every animal has eliminated bodily excretions of one sort or another and that we have two heartworm treatments, an orthopedic surgery, a barium series, four spays, three neuters, and cats to bathe and dip by noon...
When the doctor dashes out the door at noon spouting an oral schedule of medications, treatment instructions, dosages and a reminder to give that cat an enema and take another radiograph by 1:30 (since I obviously won't be going to lunch anyway) as the door closes behind him...
When I take the Schnauzer on IV fluids for a little walk and out of habit lock the door behind me, remembering too late that my keys are lying on the lab desk...
When two cats and a Cocker Spaniel have urinated on my new lab coat and pants, and clients are beginning to wrinkle their noses and cast doubtful looks my way, and I absolutely MUST stop at the grocery store on my way home...
When I have been clawed, stepped on, snapped at, and had anal sacs expressed on me, and the anxious owner is pleading with me to "be gentle with poor Satan, he's NEVER bitten anyone BEFORE"!!!
When my feet ache, my back hurts, and my legs feel like overstretched rubber bands...
When incoming bills far exceed my bank balance...
When I ask myself, "WHY DO I DO THIS"???
...I help breathe life into a newborn kitten.
...I see the look of fear and pain begin to leave a young dog as fluids, medication, and loving care relieve shock and anxiety.
...I feel a little pink tongue gently touch my hand as I check a bandage, and I look up to see trusting eyes and I hear a thumping tail acknowledge my words of encouragement.
...I hear the cry of joy and an answering bark as an aging owner and equally aging pet are reunited.
...I touch the bereaved client's shoulder as she holds her dying pet and feel the grief she feels of losing her best friend, as she realizes SOMEONE understands.
...and I truly know that I could NEVER do anything else!!!