When my boss suggested writing a monthly pet chronic in the Gazette, my first response was “No thanks.”
Then I started thinking of things I could write and information I could maybe pass along: first vaccines, pet health insurance, interesting cases I’ve seen.
I could see myself dismantling misbelieves on pet health, veterinary medicine and things like puppy mills.
Then came the real challenge; what would my first article be about? Before I go on a rant again, I will tell you a bit about me.
I graduated a five-year program at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the Université de Montréal in May of 2011, and moved to the North Island at the end of June.
I originally intended to be an equine practitioner but being called at 2:30 in the morning for a colicky horse in the middle of the Quebec winter, hands in cold water and covered in … discouraged the precious little girl I was. I then focused on small animal medicine and realized how I liked it, and how I could go deeper in the science of every case and do more complicated surgeries.
There are many specialties to choose from in veterinary medicine, but the one that really interested me was oncology.
It involves a mathematical logic that I love, especially in the planning of a chemotherapy or radiology treatment for a patient.
It also focuses on the quality of life of the patient as opposed to its longevity, and reduces the side effects to a minimum. Then there are those oncology patients, mostly senior animals, which have a long and touching history with their owners. Working with those families is very rewarding even if you only truly cure some of them.
I received an internship offer back in Montreal but Port Hardy convinced me to work in this beautiful place. I have not completely crossed off the idea of one day going back to school, but acquiring experience as a general small animal practitioner first seemed like a smart place to start.
I would love to hear your comments or concerns. Also, if there is any particular subject that you wish to read about, I’m all ears!
Next month: animal adoption and first vaccines.
If you have a pet-related question for Dr. Drolet, please email them to editor@northislandgazette.com or drop them off at our office.