DogtorJosh

08/24/2024

True or false?

08/21/2024

ChatGPT Roasts DogtorJosh. Now that I’m done wiping away the tears, I’m ready to share the laughs with everyone. In their defense, the prompt included don’t hold back, and hurt my feelings, mission accomplished - solid advice though if we’re being real 😂🤣💀

08/14/2024

This weekend was incredibly tough. Molly developed a large mass on her left shoulder that rapidly appeared over the last week. We aspirated the mass on Friday, and she had a severe inflammatory reaction. When I reviewed her in-house cytology, I was devastated to see it confirmed as a mast cell tumor. The shock and loss of breath I felt were indescribable.

The bruising and inflammation spread from her shoulder down her arm and across her chest and abdomen. By the end of my shift, she could barely walk, so we treated her with strong pain meds. I’m so grateful to the team at for their exceptional care and love for Molly.

Thankfully, with a heavy regimen of Benadryl, Prednisone, and acid reducers, her inflammatory response was managed, and Molly was back on her feet within 24 hours, returning to her usual self in 72 hours. Thank you to all family, friends, and colleagues that helped support me over the weekend.

We completed her staging and consulted with Dr. Linderman at the Veterinary Referral and Emergency Center in Westbury. Dr. Linderman and the oncology service at VREC understood the severity of the fast growing mass and prioritized getting her in for assessment ASAP. We decided against surgery for now due to the size of the mass and her severe histamine reaction just from the fine needle aspiration on Friday. Fortunately, Molly has responded well to the steroid protocol, with the mass reducing to nearly half its size since Friday. We’re starting her on a combination of oral steroids and chemotherapy to shrink the mass and keep her comfortable for as long as possible.

I want to extend my deepest thanks to Dr. Linderman, Dr. Galati, and the entire team at for their incredible support. They treated Molly with the utmost care during her ultrasound, being careful not to cause her discomfort and ensuring I felt supported without judgment. While Molly’s prognosis isn’t the best, I know this team is doing everything they can to keep her comfortable.

Your support means the world to me, and I can’t express my gratitude enough. We’ll be back in three weeks for a checkup to monitor her response to the treatment plan.

08/09/2024

I wanted to bring this conversation over here too.

What do you think ?

07/21/2024

🎉 It’s my 32nd birthday today! 🎉 I’ve had an amazing birthday weekend with friends and family – starting with the 3rd Eye Blind concert at Jones Beach on Thursday, an incredible lobster dinner at Frank’s Steakhouse on Friday, Top Golf with loved ones yesterday, and finishing strong with Saw the Musical - the unauthorized parody with the love of my life. This birthday weekend was definitely a HUGE success!

Grateful for another year of adventures, learning, and helping our furry friends. 🐾 Here’s to more compassion, growth, and making a positive impact in veterinary medicine. Thank you all for being part of this journey with me. Cheers to new beginnings and continued kindness! 🌟🥳

07/04/2024

🎆🇺🇸 Happy 4th of July, everyone! As we celebrate this holiday, let’s also keep our furry friends safe. Fireworks and BBQs can be stressful and hazardous for pets. Ensure they stay in safe spaces away from the festivities, and always supervise them if they’re outside. Keep them cool with plenty of water and shady spots, or better yet, keep them indoors if it’s hot. Enjoy the holiday, have fun, and stay safe! 🐾💙❤️

06/04/2024

Understanding and practicing clinical empathy is a game-changer in veterinary medicine. It’s not just about treating pets but connecting with their guardians. Let’s break it down using a relatable scenario:

Step One: Observe
Start by observing the pet guardian’s emotional state without getting overwhelmed. Imagine a guardian with a 2-year-old dog that’s had diarrhea for two nights, keeping them awake. They’re exhausted and worried. Recognizing both concerns is crucial.

Step Two: Communicate
Next, communicate your understanding. Let them know you empathize with their lack of sleep and share their concern. Say, “I see you’ve had a rough couple of nights. I understand how exhausting it is and how worried you are about your dog. We’re here to help.” This reassures them you’re on the same team with the same goals: identifying the cause of the diarrhea and getting some rest.

Step Three: Create a Plan
Finally, create a treatment plan that addresses both the medical concerns and the emotional needs of the guardian. Present the plan clearly: “Our goal with this plan is two-fold. First, we’ll find out what’s causing the diarrhea and get it under control. Secondly, this will help you get some much-needed sleep.” Ensure your plan reflects their priorities and communicate this effectively.

This empathetic approach fosters a positive environment, strengthening the bond with pet guardians. Studies in veterinary medicine show a strong link between client connection and better outcomes—greater compliance, improved patient care, and increased provider satisfaction. This leads to less compassion fatigue and burnout, fewer client complaints, and healthier patients.

By observing, communicating, and creating a thoughtful plan, you not only address the immediate issues but also build a stronger, more trusting relationship with pet guardians. This holistic approach ensures everyone—patients, clients, and veterinary professionals—thrives.

05/02/2024

Navigating Veterinary Consultations: Key Mistakes to Steer Clear Of! 🚫👨‍⚕️ Save this to read later.

Navigating the nuances of veterinary consultations requires a blend of empathy, patience, and keen observation. It’s not just about diagnosing and treating our four-legged patients, but also about building a strong, trusting relationship with their human companions. Here are some essential tips on what NOT to do during these critical interactions:

1️⃣ Start With Warm Hellos, Not Your Exam: Always begin your consultation with a friendly greeting. Acknowledging both your client and their beloved pet by name sets a welcoming tone and shows respect. It’s not just polite; it’s crucial in establishing a rapport that makes subsequent communication smoother and more open. 🙋‍♂️🐕

2️⃣ Pause Before Interrupting: It’s easy to think ahead to solutions and treatments as soon as you start hearing about symptoms, but it’s vital to let your clients complete their thoughts. Allowing them to share their observations and concerns without interruption can provide you with insights that might not be immediately obvious from a medical chart alone. Each story shared by a pet owner is a building block in the foundation of trust and can provide valuable context for diagnosis and treatment. 🛑🗣️

3️⃣ Listen With Intent to Understand, Not Just to Respond: Too often, professionals listen only to cue up their next comment. Instead, engage deeply with what is being shared. Focus on understanding the emotions behind the words. This empathetic listening can lead to more effective care and better outcomes, as you align your expertise with the specific needs and experiences of both pet and owner. 🤔🐾

Before you scroll away, take a moment to save, share, and follow for ongoing veterinary advice that combines professional knowledge with heartfelt empathy.

04/05/2024

🎉 Thank you for 5k followers! Your support means the world. Since it’s been a while, I figured I would reintroduce myself. 🌟 I’m Josh, also known as DogtorJosh or Dr. Rosen, dedicated to enriching the lives of pets and their humans. As a relief veterinarian serving Long Island, NYC, and NJ, I’m all about forging trust and connections in every clinic I support. My passion for veterinary medicine ignited from a childhood dream, fueled by an innate curiosity about science and the profound bond between humans and animals. 🐶👨‍⚕️🐕‍🦺

Treating animals, from the tiniest kitty to the rare exotic, brings joy to my day. It’s not about having a favorite; it’s the diversity and challenge that I love. 🦜

📚 Staying sharp means hitting the books, attending conferences, and tuning into the latest podcasts and online CE. It’s a never-ending journey of learning.

📖🏠🎮 At home with Molly and Cora the beagles, and Sabrina the kitty, who remind me of the simple joys in life, I unwind by diving into video games or laughing along to episodes of The Office. 😄

💔 It’s no secret; veterinary medicine can be tough. I’m here to lighten the load with a dose of humor and a focus on clinical empathy. Let’s navigate the ups and downs together. 🤝

📣 Fun fact: Once a male cheerleader, always a cheerleader at heart. It’s where I met my soulmate—classic cheerleader meets mascot story. ❤️

🎙 This year, my goal is to spread the word on the power of clinical empathy, joining podcasts and IG lives. Let’s build those connections and support each other, one paw at a time. 🌍

03/20/2024

In a whirlwind of fear and uncertainty, our beloved Buster, our resilient bulldog, faced a daunting health scare yesterday. It was a morning that began with alarm, witnessing Buster collapse post a distressing vomiting episode. In our hour of need, the Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island ( ) emerged as our beacon of hope. With a mere phone call, their emergency team, led by the compassionate Dr. Rice, sprang into action. Their swift decision to prioritize Buster as a stat triage not only exemplified their profound dedication but also their deep-seated empathy towards our furry family member.

As they worked meticulously to stabilize him, it was evident that their commitment went beyond mere professional obligation; it was a heartfelt endeavor to ensure his well-being. The discovery of a large splenic mass and hemoabdomen was a harsh reality to face. Yet, it was the VMCLI’s unwavering support and expertise that granted us a precious gift – time. Time to cherish with Buster, to envelop him in the comfort and love he’s always showered upon us.

As we navigate this tender phase of Buster’s journey, choosing to focus on comfort and quality, it is with immense gratitude that we acknowledge the role Dr. Rice and the emergency and critical care teams at VMCLI have played. Their exceptional care has provided Buster with an opportunity to continue being a beacon of joy in our lives, albeit for a limited time.

This post is a tribute, a heartfelt thank you to the entire team at VMCLI for their phenomenal care, empathy, and for giving us more moments to treasure with Buster. In the face of despair, you’ve offered us hope and solace. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Here’s to cherishing every precious moment with our beloved Buster, thanks to you.

03/16/2024

Transform your vet visits with heartfelt empathy 🐾✨ Swipe left to unlock the power of compassionate care:

1️⃣ Personalize: Use your client’s name for a personal touch.
2️⃣ Listen: Understand their concerns deeply.
3️⃣ Empathy First: Connect before advising.
4️⃣ Follow-up: Show ongoing care post-visit.

Let’s create a caring journey for every pet and owner. Follow for more tips and tricks !

02/14/2024

Based on a true story. And yes, the dog is doing well. Empathy is a two way street. Be nice to your vet teams friends!!

02/01/2024

🐕‍🦺 Understanding Beyond Symptoms 🐈 Every pet story is unique, and so is our approach. In veterinary medicine, clinical empathy is our tool to connect, understand, and provide the best care. It’s about being there for every wag and purr, and for every concerned pet parent.

01/30/2024

Unlocking the Heart of Veterinary Medicine: Clinical empathy isn’t just a soft skill, it’s the cornerstone of care we all strive to provide. It bridges the gap between science and soul, helping us to not only treat our patients but truly understand them. In the journey of healing, empathy is our most trusted guide.

01/29/2024

🐾🩺 Elevating Vet Care with Clinical Empathy 🩺🐾

1️⃣ Active Listening: It’s not just about hearing; it’s about understanding. Listen to both the spoken and unspoken. 🎧🗣️

2️⃣ Non-Verbal Communication: Your actions can comfort more than words. Be mindful of your body language and presence. 🤗🐾

3️⃣ Acknowledging Emotions: Recognize the bond between pets and their families. Your empathy can make all the difference. 💞👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

4️⃣ Personalizing Care: Every case is unique. Tailor your approach to each pet and their human. 🌟📖

5️⃣ Support and Guidance: Be more than a healer; be a guide. Your wisdom extends beyond clinical advice. 🐕‍🦺👣

Fellow veterinarians, let’s remember that our role extends beyond medical treatment. It’s about connection, understanding, and heart. Join me in embracing clinical empathy to transform lives, one pet and one family at a time. 💖🩺

01/26/2024

The human-animal bond is unlike any other. 💕 It’s a connection that transcends words, fueled by unconditional love and unwavering loyalty. But when our furry (or feathered, or scaled!) companions face health challenges, navigating the world of veterinary medicine can feel overwhelming. 😔

That’s where clinical empathy comes in. It’s not just about understanding a pet’s medical needs; it’s about recognizing and acknowledging the emotional rollercoaster pet parents experience. It’s about listening with your heart, validating their fears, and celebrating their triumphs.

Think about it this way: When your pet is sick, your world gets turned upside down. You’re worried, you’re confused, you just want your best friend back to their healthy, happy selves. A vet who practices clinical empathy understands that. They take the time to truly hear your concerns, answer your questions patiently, and offer support every step of the way.

The benefits of clinical empathy are far-reaching:

Stronger relationships: When pet parents feel heard and understood, they’re more likely to trust and bond with their veterinarian. This trust is essential for building a collaborative healthcare team, leading to better outcomes for pets.

Improved treatment adherence: When pet parents understand their pet’s diagnosis and treatment plan, they’re more likely to follow through with it. This can make a world of difference in a pet’s recovery.

Reduced stress and anxiety: Dealing with a sick pet is stressful. But when pet parents feel supported and understood by their vet, they can cope better with the emotional challenges.

So, how can veterinary professionals cultivate clinical empathy? Let me know your thoughts below. More on clinical empathy to come 😊

01/24/2024

Contemplating an “all-natural” approach to heartworm prevention? Learn the facts about what that means.
https://bit.ly/2Ykirnm

01/19/2024

This short video explains why dogs need heartworm preventives--and how preventives work.

01/16/2024

Share and follow me on my relief veterinary adventures :)

01/15/2024

Do it for them.

01/12/2024

Dr. Jason Coe joins Dr. Andy Roark on the podcast to discuss effective veterinarian-client communication, specifically addressing sensitive topics like pet obesity. He highlights the importance of understanding the client's viewpoint, avoiding rushed recommendations, and advocating for a collaborati

01/03/2024

Today is National Pet Travel Safety Day! Hitting the road with your pet this year? Here are 6️⃣ tips to keep in mind if you're planning on traveling with your pet in 2024.

01/03/2024

Here are some quick tips to help feral cat caretakers and their colonies make it safely through the cold winter months.

01/03/2024

tfw the dogtor is in

01/02/2024

12/09/2023

Today is International Day of Veterinary Medicine. Join us in celebrating veterinary professionals around the world for their tireless efforts to improve not only animal health but human health.

They help prevent zoonotic diseases, provide frontline care, and work towards disease eradication. We owe so much to the incredible work of veterinary professionals; without them the world would not only be a less healthy place but a much less compassionate place.

12/09/2023

This goes for veterinarians and all veterinary professionals. Trust in the fact that we have devoted our entire lives to advocating for animals and caring for them throughout their lives with their pet parents.

11/20/2023

Progress is the key. Always 🔑

11/11/2023

Today, we honor those who have bravely served our nation, and we also recognize the unwavering companionship of their service dogs. These canine companions provide not just practical support but also emotional solace, helping our veterans navigate the invisible scars of war.

Their stories are as diverse as their breeds, but they share a common thread: a bond forged in shared experiences, mutual trust, and unwavering loyalty. These four-legged heroes are more than just pets; they are lifelines, confidantes, and beacons of hope.

As we celebrate Veterans Day, let us also celebrate the remarkable dogs who stand by their side, offering comfort, support, and an unwavering love that knows no bounds.

11/01/2023

WOOF! We did it! 🎉 I'm so grateful to all 2000 of you for following along on my vet med journey. I love sharing my passion for animals with you, and I'm always learning new things thanks to your questions and insights. Here's to more fun and learning in the future! 🐾