Approximately three months after I started working with Dr. Benjamin, the hospital transferred ownership to Dr. Erich Williams. It was under Dr.Williams’s guidance that my clinical experiences and education really accelerated. He showed me the appropriate technique to use when holding a turtle’s jaw as he set it, the correct way to flush a skink’s oral abscess, and the proper position to hold a bird so as not to cause stress. I kept and still have an extensive journal of the cases I saw at Wikiup Veterinary Hospital. I continued to work there 30 to 40 hours a week throughout Junior College. The challenge of working full time took a toll on my grades, but I gained invaluable experience and time management skills. Now, working 20 hours a week, I have been able to attain much higher grades in my biology degree.
I currently work at Bradshaw Veterinary Clinic. The emergency clinic, its size, and its pace are demanding, and like nothing I have seen before. I am fortunate to work as part of a large team, which has contributed to my ability and willingness to interact with many different DVMs and staff members. I learn new things each day and realize the challenges I may face as an avian and exotic animal veterinarian.
One of the biggest challenges I am going to face is the fact that by the time a client finally brings in their exotic pet, it is usually too late. Since many of the species of exotics kept as pets are inexpensive, many clients will not pay for the cost of treatment or surgery. I will have to utilize my communication skills in order to address the husbandry needs of many exotic species, and actually have the client follow through with my suggestions, which is rarely the case. There are so many challenges in this field and I am ready to commit to the life long learning required to be at the forefront of avian and exotic animal medicine.
The path I have taken has made me realize that I want to participate in the cutting edge research and further development of avian and exotic animal medicine and surgery. I have seen the positive side of veterinary medicine as well as the trauma and necessity of euthanasia, and am more than willing to take the bad with the good. As I have experienced, veterinary medicine is a field where I am confident I will continue to learn; this is a challenge I am eager to face. My next step is to pursue and master veterinary school and continue my learning, in the field of veterinary medicine.
Now you all know a little about me. Now it is time to find a place to live in a foreign country, without seeing it first. My 89 lb Great Dane/ Pitt Mix, Keaton, has to fly over there too...that will be tough. I am ready for the challenge though and I hope everyone enjoys following me through my adventures.
-Christina
