A relationship with a great veterinarian is so so important. Like any relationship, we need a veterinarian who “fits” and it is completely normal and acceptable to have to shop a bit for that right person.
It should be reasonably clear that I am a fan of my veterinarian, Dr. Shoni Card. She is wicked smart and that means she is a team player. The best professionals know there is always value in learning, listening, and teaming — and intelligence and experience tend to foster humility.
Sage and his take down
I show up with articles and questions and opinions — and Dr. Card is not offended or put off. Instead, we discuss. I have great respect for her expertise but the real reason she is our veterinarian is her professional openness and humility; it is those things that engender my trust in her.
When a professional insists on “my way or the highway” — get on the highway. Your dog, like any human, needs the benefit of a team approach to his/her health care, and a good veterinarian knows the owner is part of the team.
Larkspur — on a yoga mat
On the other hand, I can only imagine what it must feel like to be an experienced veterinarian and have someone come in with the wackadoodle ideas on the internet related to dog care. I try really hard not to be THAT kind of client.
The Wildflowers will go home with a vaccination plan that may cause veterinary consternation as it will not match Standard Operating Procedure — same with the worming situation. In anticipation of this, I am getting the ducks lined up — Dr. Card, who is a pretty traditional veterinarian, will sign off on all instructions.
In addition, I will provide a document referenced with professional veterinary literature/recognized experts to support the recommendations; this will be ready in a week or so new families can visit their prospective veterinarian in advance of the first wellness exam. Yes — a veterinary visit sans puppy is a thing and a great idea.
In anticipation of puppy arrival, new homes should explore whether their veterinarian has or is willing to order Distemper + Parvovirus, MLV (e.g. Merck Nobivac [Intervet Progard] Puppy DPV). Not a three-way or a five-way vaccine — just Distemper and Parvovirus. More on vaccinations this weekend.
The Wildflowers are welcoming special visitors today — I will post a video and photos later. In the meantime, please have an awesome day!
Video HERE
EVENING: PHOTOS FROM A FUN DAY
Puppy Central moved outside today in anticipation of our visitors — and to use the splash pad.
Buttercup and Lupine
Lupine
Mariposa
The father of the Wildflowers, Major, came to meet them — with his wonderful family, of course…
Once again, I was so pleased with how the puppies handled new people — they met five new people and visited their Auntie Suzanne as well…
Suzanne and Buttercup
Mallow
Photo op! Major with the five girls…
Major with the four boys…
Major practicing for the next level of Trick Dog…
Major and Lawrence…
Yes, that is our view!
Good Night, Friends.