The human pet bond, spurred by the coronavirus and fortified in a post pandemic world, has never been stronger. I’m grateful to witness this human-animal connection first hand. It’s one of the best perks in a field that can sometimes be somewhat grim.
Privately owning a small practice can be challenging. It demands always showing good face while communicating with clients, colleagues, staff and vendors all while maintaining focus on good medicine. It’s long hours rotating between well visits and critical care appointments. In truth, it takes an emotional toll and stirs compassion fatigue.
In the nearly four years of owning Animal Hospital at Thorndale, I’ve come to appreciate my colleagues in the field. I recognize the same drive within them to always be better. This is an extraordinary feat considering that 1 in 6 veterinarians have considered suicide according to a recently published study by the American Medical Veterinary Association. There’s a higher mental illness and suicide rate among the veterinary professionals than the general public. I gently urge you to please be kind to your local veterinarian and more importantly, to each other.
I am thankful for my professional team. They are important to me and make a critical difference in my world and in the greater Chester County community. We make a great team at Animal Hospital at Thorndale. This is the best part of being a veterinarian, second to helping owners improve and enhance their pets’ lives and strengthening their bond.
-Dr. Melissa Java
