An open letter to my vet: I just wanted to share with you how hurtful it feels to be called a “dog hoarder” when I come into the office. Perhaps it is meant to be joking, but there is already one vet in the practice that I prefer not to see because of feeling judged due to statements they have made to me….now I am beginning to feel that way with some of the techs as well. Certainly we have more dogs than most. However, that is our choice and one that suits our lifestyle at the present. I think it would be hard to argue that my dogs are not well cared-for or loved. They eat premium kibble (lots of it). They are supplemented with yogurt, fish oil, cosequin, and allergy meds/thyroid meds/ anti-inflammatories depending on the dog’s needs, as well as of course routine heartworm and flea/tick preventative. They are groomed regularly. They get any vet care that is needed, whether routine or emergent—I think my account probably speaks to that pretty clearly. They go hiking and jogging with us, as well as to the dog park and walked on a 3 mile loop in our neighborhood. To me the term “hoarder” implies not only someone with too many animals, but too many animals to properly care for. And it’s as pejorative a term as is “puppy mill”. I am very grateful for the care my pets have received there over the last 22 years, beginning when we adopted Muffin from the SPCA on our first wedding anniversary. You’ve helped us through the loss of both cherished old dogs and, tragically, the loss of a dearly loved puppy. I truly do not want to change vets, but I also don’t want to feel uncomfortable or judged every time I walk into the building simply because we have more dogs than you might deem wise. I spend a lot of money on my dogs—that’s my choice and one I do not in any way regret. If you honestly think they are not well cared for then you are welcome to tell me we are no longer welcome in your practice and I will find somewhere else to go. Otherwise, if you could please try to check your judgment of how many dogs we have and consider instead how much they are loved and spoiled, that would be very much appreciated. Thanks for listening.
Posted on: Sat, 14 Sep 2013 16:13:55 +0000
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