How a Trip to the Vet Made Me a Better Doc

Happy Dog; Happier Doctor

Watchful waiting and some doggie meloxicam were the main outcomes of this visit. Even though, on the face of it, there were very few actionable items, something important transpired. I felt a sense of relief that I was listened to and that someone competent was paying close attention to my concerns. I also felt a sense of gratitude that I could trust this particular veterinarian moving forward. After all, watchful waiting doesn’t mean wishful waiting—a follow-up, whether formal in the clinic or on the phone, would still be necessary.

Lexi came home and had lots of doggie treats. We took nice slow walks for a few weeks, and her limp eventually resolved by itself. I’m not sure exactly what that was about but it looks like Lexi isn’t any worse for wear. One year onward, she’s a happy middle-aged puppy that eagerly looks forward to walks. I do keep an eye on her front leg, but except for the most subtle apparent stiffness when first getting up, everything seems good.

The entire experience has made me grow as a rheumatologist. When I returned to the clinic the next day, I realized that I was imitating some of the things that Dr. N had done: I was more cognizant that I needed to communicate in a clear fashion and be more attentive to the emotional needs of patients and their family members. Thanks to this visit to the vet, I felt more appreciative of my role as a rheumatologist in not just providing relief for pain and inflammation, but also relief from uncertainty and isolation.

Bharat Kumar, MD, MME, FACP, FAAAAI, RhMSUS, is the associate program director of the rheumatology fellowship training program at the University of Iowa, Iowa City, and the physician editor of The Rheumatologist. Follow him on Twitter @BharatKumarMD.