From as early as I can remember, my heart has been set on working with animals. My passion for medicine was clear, but my desire to interact with people in a clinical setting was not as strong. While I’ve always enjoyed engaging with people, when it came to addressing medical issues, my true interest lay in animals. Whether it was caring for a sick dog or cat or rescuing a snake from harm, my instincts and enthusiasm were always centered around animals. These experiences shaped my decision to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. My journey through veterinary medicine has been one of profound self-discovery and professional development. Starting as a veterinary assistant, I gained invaluable hands-on experience, which led me to further my education as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). Now, as a veterinary student, I continue to grow both personally and professionally. This evolution from a shy and self-conscious individual to a confident and skilled DVM student has been both challenging and rewarding. My growth has been facilitated by the supportive colleagues I’ve encountered and the diverse experiences that veterinary medicine has offered me. In addition to my journey, my perspective on purebred dogs and breeding has evolved significantly. Purebred dogs can be remarkable, fulfilling specific roles and displaying traits that are a result of purposeful breeding. Watching purebred dogs excel in their intended roles—be it as working dogs, service animals, or loyal companions—demonstrates the impressive outcomes of selective breeding when done with care. These dogs can offer exceptional companionship and perform their roles effectively with appropriate training and proper care. However, the less regulated aspects of breeding practices have led to serious concerns. A prominent example is the French Bulldog, a breed celebrated for its charming appearance and personality but often afflicted by severe genetic issues due to its brachycephalic facial structure. The breed’s compromised respiratory function highlights a significant problem: the pursuit of aesthetic traits at the expense of the animals' health. Many French Bulldogs experience such severe breathing difficulties that even intubation becomes a more comfortable option than their daily life. This situation underscores the need for stricter regulations and higher standards in breeding practices. It is essential to balance the desire for specific physical traits with the ethical responsibility of ensuring the animals' health and well-being. Implementing rigorous breeding standards and focusing on the overall health of purebred dogs can help mitigate these issues, allowing these animals to thrive as the wonderful companions they are intended to be. My journey into veterinary medicine reflects a deep-seated commitment to animal care and a conscientious approach to addressing the ethical challenges surrounding purebred dog breeding. By continuing my education and advocating for improved breeding practices, I hope to contribute to the advancement of veterinary medicine and the enhancement of animal welfare. Ensuring that all animals receive the care and respect they deserve is at the heart of my professional goals and personal values.

“TV” In “TV,” Billie Eilish captures a pervasive feeling of frustration about the media’s tendency to focus on sensational stories at the expense of crucial issues. The song's commentary feels especially relevant in light of the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. This landmark ruling had significant consequences for women’s reproductive rights and health, creating a climate of uncertainty and concern for many. What struck me about the song’s message is its implicit critique of how media coverage can distract from pressing matters. The focus on high-profile cases, such as the Johnny Depp and Amber Heard divorce trial, seemed to divert attention away from the more substantive and urgent issues like the rollback of Roe v. Wade. This shift in focus was disheartening, as it overshadowed critical discussions about women’s health and autonomy. Billie’s lyrics reflect a disillusionment with how the media landscape can prioritize entertainment and drama over substantive issues that affect people’s lives in profound ways. “When the Party’s Over” “When the Party’s Over” is a powerful expression of emotional vulnerability and the struggle to maintain personal boundaries amidst external pressures. The song's haunting melody and minimalistic production create a poignant atmosphere that mirrors the internal conflict described in the lyrics. For me, this song resonates deeply because it articulates feelings of exhaustion and the profound need for solitude—emotions I frequently encounter in my own life. As a student of veterinary medicine, I often find myself caught between a strong desire to meet the needs of others and the challenge of finding peace within myself. The demands of the field can be overwhelming, and the pressure to excel and support those around me can lead to significant emotional and physical fatigue. Billie’s ability to convey such intimacy and melancholy with just her voice and a simple piano arrangement speaks directly to this universal struggle. The song’s exploration of needing to step back and prioritize self-care resonates with my experiences. It reflects the internal conflict of wanting to be there for others while also recognizing the necessity of taking time for oneself. In the high-stress environment of veterinary medicine, where the focus is often on helping animals and supporting their owners, it is easy to overlook one’s own well-being. “When the Party’s Over” serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of finding balance and honoring personal boundaries to maintain overall mental and emotional health. “What Was I Made For?” “What Was I Made For?” delves into existential questions and the search for purpose in life. The song’s introspective lyrics and melancholic melody explore feelings of doubt and the quest for meaning. This song resonates with me deeply as it mirrors my own moments of introspection and uncertainty about my place in the world. Billie’s contemplative and vulnerable approach to such profound questions provides a sense of validation and introspection. It encourages me to embrace the journey of self-discovery and to seek purpose with patience and openness. Billie Eilish’s music has been a source of comfort and reflection for me, offering insight into the complex emotions and experiences that shape our lives. Through her music, Billie articulates feelings of growth, disillusionment, and existential questioning with remarkable authenticity. Her ability to express these intricate emotions helps me navigate my own experiences and fosters a sense of connection and understanding.

When I see a pitbull’s name on the schedule at the veterinary hospital, my first thought is often atopic dermatitis. I picture that sweet face walking through the door, marked by scabs and crusting, burdened by chronic ear infections, and enduring a lifetime of discomfort. At my first clinic, we encountered at least three cases of atopy each day, along with a myriad of other skin conditions. It became clear to me that the skin, being the largest organ in the body, endures substantial damage and requires specialized care. This experience underscored the importance of dermatology in providing relief, comfort, and quality of life for pets and their owners. My journey towards veterinary medicine began with a simple but profound love for animals. With an undergraduate degree in animal science, I entered the field with theoretical knowledge but limited hands-on experience. My early days at the clinic were spent learning from the ground up, absorbing knowledge about medical conditions, breed-specific health issues, lab work, and surgical procedures. It was a steep learning curve, but each lesson reinforced my desire to understand and help animals more profoundly. Initially, my interest was broad, encompassing various aspects of veterinary care. However, as I immersed myself in the daily operations of the clinic, I found myself increasingly drawn to dermatology. My clinic's high volume of dermatological cases, particularly atopic dermatitis, revealed the critical role that specialized care plays in treating these challenging conditions. The skin's complexity and the range of issues it faces—from allergies and infections to autoimmune disorders—fascinated me and highlighted a crucial area where I could make a significant impact. One memorable case involved a pitbull named Petunia, who arrived at our clinic with severe atopic dermatitis. Petunia’s condition was so advanced that her skin was raw and inflamed, and she had chronic ear infections that seemed resistant to treatment. The distress Petunia experienced was palpable, not only for her but for her owner as well. Seeing Petunia’s suffering and the owner’s desperation to find relief deepened my resolve to pursue dermatology. It was a turning point that crystallized my interest in this field. Throughout my time at the clinic, I witnessed firsthand the profound effect that dermatological care can have on a pet's quality of life. Effective treatment not only alleviates physical symptoms but also restores the pet's comfort and the owner's peace of mind. I became increasingly aware of the nuances involved in diagnosing and managing skin conditions, from identifying environmental or dietary allergens to developing tailored treatment plans. This hands-on experience in dermatology has been invaluable. It has taught me to appreciate the intricacies of skin health and the importance of a comprehensive approach to treatment. The challenge of managing chronic conditions, the need for ongoing research, and the potential for improving patient outcomes through innovative therapies have all fueled my passion for veterinary dermatology. The challenges and rewards of addressing skin conditions like atopic dermatitis have inspired me to pursue a career where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of pets and their owners. I am dedicated to furthering my knowledge and skills in this field and am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of veterinary dermatology.

My journey into veterinary medicine was sparked by a personal experience with my beloved golden retriever's battle with cancer. She was diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma, a devastating blow to our family. Faced with difficult decisions, our veterinarian presented us with two options: risky surgery to remove the mass or an herbal remedy called Yunnan Baiyao to halt the internal bleeding. Our veterinarian provided us with insights into our options and thoroughly educated us on the pros and cons of each decision available to us. This guidance empowered us to make an informed choice that we believed was in the best interest of our pet. Considering her age and prognosis, both options offered a limited window of hope, with life expectancy ranging from one to six months. Ultimately, we chose the herbal medicine route, hoping to alleviate her suffering and prolong her happiness, avoiding the recovery period for surgery and the possibility of euthanasia on the table if the cancer had metastasized. For a brief period of two months, our golden retriever lived comfortably before her quality of life deteriorated and we opted to humanely euthanize her. This experience ignited my curiosity in integrative or complementary veterinary medicine. Exploring alternative treatments, such as acupuncture, dry needling, penetrating laser therapy, and chiropractic alignments, revealed a realm of possibilities beyond conventional Western medicine. Witnessing the effectiveness of these non-traditional therapies firsthand, both in my pet's care and in my own recovery from post-surgery muscle atrophy pain, solidified my belief in their value. While conventional medicine undoubtedly plays a crucial role in addressing health issues through drugs and surgery, I firmly believe that integrating complementary therapies into veterinary practice can significantly enhance the well-being of pets and alleviate financial burdens on owners. Traditional Western medicine may achieve miraculous results, but complementary therapies can provide invaluable support, facilitating holistic healing and promoting comprehensive recovery. My aspiration in veterinary medicine is to establish a robust foundation in traditional care while incorporating integrative, non-traditional therapies into practice. Furthermore, I intend to delve into addressing behavioral issues within the clinic and at home, leveraging my Fear Free certification. Through the implementation of pheromones, positive reinforcement, and Fear Free techniques, I aim to create a more comfortable veterinary experience for both clients and their pets. By offering a well-rounded approach to pet care, I aim to provide clients with a holistic and personalized experience that addresses their pets' physical and emotional needs. Embracing both conventional and complementary modalities, I seek to contribute to the advancement of veterinary medicine and promote the health and happiness of animals everywhere.

Preserving purebred dog breeds and ensuring their health for future generations is of paramount importance to both pet ownership and veterinary medicine. This commitment is crucial in safeguarding the unique characteristics, temperament, and genetic diversity of each breed, while also mitigating the risk of inherited diseases and health issues. First and foremost, purebred dog breeds are not just arbitrary classifications; they represent centuries of careful selection and breeding for specific traits and purposes. Each breed has its own distinct set of characteristics, behaviors, and abilities that make them beloved companions for countless families worldwide. Preserving these breeds ensures that future generations can continue to experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from owning a dog with traits that align with their lifestyle and preferences. In the realm of veterinary medicine, the preservation of purebred dog breeds is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it provides veterinarians with a standardized understanding of breed-specific health concerns, enabling them to better diagnose, treat, and manage potential issues. By maintaining the purity of breeds, veterinarians can anticipate and address common health conditions more effectively, ultimately enhancing the quality of care provided to these animals. Additionally, preserving purebred dog breeds facilitates ongoing research into genetic diseases and inherited conditions. Dogs with well-documented pedigrees offer invaluable resources for studying the genetic basis of various health problems, allowing researchers to develop targeted interventions and preventive measures. This research not only benefits purebred dogs but also contributes to our understanding of similar conditions in mixed-breed and even human populations. However, the preservation of purebred dog breeds is threatened by the proliferation of unlicensed breeders who prioritize profit over the welfare of the animals. These unethical breeders often engage in indiscriminate breeding practices, leading to an overabundance of puppies with compromised health and genetic integrity. The example of French bulldogs highlights the detrimental consequences of overbreeding, with these dogs experiencing a myriad of health issues ranging from respiratory problems to joint abnormalities. To combat this trend, concerted efforts are needed to promote responsible breeding practices and educate prospective dog owners about the importance of sourcing pets from reputable breeders. Additionally, regulatory measures should be implemented to enforce standards of care and breeding ethics, thereby curbing the proliferation of unscrupulous breeders. In conclusion, the preservation of purebred dog breeds and the promotion of their health are critical endeavors that benefit both pet owners and the field of veterinary medicine. By safeguarding the unique characteristics and genetic diversity of each breed, we ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the companionship and contributions of these beloved animals while advancing our understanding and treatment of inherited diseases.

During my time in veterinary medicine, I have noticed an increase in anxiety and fear aggression among our pets. The increase in adoptions during the COVID-19 pandemic linked with owners being unable to socialize their pets caused many of our pets to develop anxiety and fear-related issues. Becoming Fear Free® certified has granted me insights into animal behavior that make it easier to provide more pleasant experiences for animals in a frightening environment. One of my favorite patients is a rescue dog saved from an abusive family by her current owners at 13 weeks. Her early abuse during the sensitive period of her life caused extreme distrust of humans and difficulties with any procedures at the vet. Due to policy changes for in-room examinations during the pandemic, we attempted to bring her into the building alone. She was extremely resistant to being separated from her owner and refused to walk, attempting to bite us from fear despite being only 6 months old. To make her more comfortable, we brought her owners in. With people she felt safe with by her side, she walked right to the scale, sat for them, and walked into the exam room without issue. We quickly learned that while she was terrified of being touched, she was food-motivated and would come to eat food out of our hands. We were only able to complete a rabies vaccine for her first visit and sent the owners home with anxiety medications and information on fear aggression and fear-induced anxiety. I suggested to the owners that they try to bring her in for free happy visits to try to alleviate anxiety and mitigate her aggression. I discussed with my manager the risks and benefits of allowing happy visits so owners could bring their pets in as often as they wanted at no charge. Happy visits involve the pet coming into the clinic to receive treats and affection with no procedures being performed, only positive experiences with the clinic and staff. The owners were thankful for my willingness to work with their fur baby and over the year that she has been coming to see me for happy visits, she has become more outgoing and sociable, allowing me to pet her head, touch her feet, and move around her body. She is still a “less is more” dog but her growth made me realize that my time and effort was worth something in the veterinary community, as well as how important my Fear Free® stance was, not just to my patients, but also to my clients. I want to continue to use my knowledge of Fear Free® techniques as I grow in this career. As my journey from VA to vet continues, I want to teach others about behavior modification and the anxiety our pets experience in the clinic and at home. Animal behavior is a passion of mine that I want to develop as I grow.