Cutest Pet

Submitted by Madison Manzo, University of Missouri

Photography

Submitted by Rhea Amatya, Colorado State University

Cutest Pet

Submitted by Kristen Calhoun, University of Illinois

Avian Influenza: What Pet Owners and Veterinarians Need to Know

Authors:

David E. Swayne, DVM, PhD, DACVP, DACPV

Laurie Hess, DVM, Editor-in-Chief of the MSD Veterinary Manual and DABVP (Avian Practice)

Click to read more ...

Experience

Submitted by Jenna Abrams, University of Pennsylvania

Accompanying my pet on trips to a veterinarian who involved me in conversations sparked my interest in veterinary medicine. It motivated me to shadow a veterinarian, where I witnessed exam room interactions and gained a basic understanding of hospital dynamics. 

I accepted many jobs where I was trained in-house as a veterinary assistant. I remember the excitement of assisting the doctor with my first ovariohysterectomy, my sorrow as newborn kittens became my first euthanasia and the bittersweet relief of knowing they were no longer suffering. I learned the importance of the essential bond between veterinarians and their clients. I was captivated by the collaborative nature between veterinarians, veterinary staff, and the owner, working together to help an animal in need. Veterinarians must act as investigators, using their scientific knowledge to advocate for their patients' best quality of life. Having someone trust you with their beloved animal is a great honor and responsibility. 

While I recognized my penchant for small animal medicine, I endeavored to diversify my understanding of the opportunities in veterinary medicine. At Colts Neck Equine, I realized similar approaches between equine and small animal medicine, and I observed equine clinical techniques that could be applied to small animals. At the Bergen County Zoo, I noticed how standard clinical practices were adapted to fit avian anatomy and bird behavior. These experiences gave me a glimpse of the opportunity within veterinary medicine and showed me the value of diverse training. 

In 2022, I became an undergraduate lead researcher in the Genetics Program at NC State, identifying new skin cancer genes with data from the NIH. I became fascinated by the abundance of cancers in the veterinary field and how I could help alleviate the debilitation that comes with cancer diagnoses. My scientific training and research taught me how curiosity, humility, patience, and tenacity can drive success. Those same values are at the core of veterinary medicine. I am committed to embodying these values by committing myself to life-long learning and continuing my involvement in research to discover new ways to improve the health and wellness of animals. Through diverse animal and veterinary experiences, I have cemented a strong passion for small animal veterinary medicine focusing on oncology. 

Through my diverse experiences, I have gained a clear vision of the direction I'd like to pursue in veterinary medicine. I possess the passion, drive, and determination to thrive as a veterinarian. Following my studies, I plan to pursue a residency in oncology, orthopedics, or cardiology where I can further hone my clinical skills and provide high-quality care to animals. Ultimately, I aim to integrate advanced research into clinical practice, improving treatment options and outcomes for small animals.