10/14/2024
Today starts Veterinary Technician Week 2024. At Holmes Family Veterinary Clinic, we are lucky enough to have a fantastic staff. Now that we are out of the worst of the COVID pandemic, which stretched us to our limits, I can reflect on how much these individuals do to keep the practice humming along.
We are a privately owned, independent veterinary practice. The people who work here do so because we have shared values. At the center of those values is the health and well-being of the pets we care for. Concern for your pet is at the core of every staff member’s mind and heart; it informs all the work that transpires in this clinic. They are committed to performing their jobs well every day, even when they are tired and someone has yelled at them (usually from fear or frustration, but I still discourage that), or we are short staffed. We have had many people out for various reasons recently. This staff is not the sort to blame or begrudge. I have seen them, on their own, pitch in together, make a plan and get the job done.
These technicians and front desk staff love every creature that comes through our doors and mourn along with you when we say good bye to a patient for the final time. They are the ones who suggest and make paw prints or cut out hearts to put on a vet wrap bandage. They are the ones who make the follow-up calls to ensure that your pet is doing well after a difficult visit or surgery. They make my job better and easier and I am so grateful to each of them. I truly could not be who I am, nor could the other doctors at our practice, if not for the people who are the backbone of our work.
And, it isn’t just the technicians, it is our front desk team who are willing to literally pitch in a hand if needed, no matter the situation, all while carrying portable phones in their pockets. This team, they all work so hard. I wish you could see how they are scrambling behind the scenes to answer the ringing phones while trying to fill medications, check clients in, check clients out, return calls, keep the doctors on time, make lab work calls, schedule appointments and surgeries. Their efforts are endless.
They could all make more money someplace else. I know we can’t compete with corporate practices on that scale. But, you and I are lucky enough that they choose the satisfaction of being able to put your pets as their number one priority. They choose to work where they feel cared for by me, by each other and by you. During this week, where we recognize the time, talents, energy and commitment of these people, I hope you will join me in voicing gratitude for all they do.
Dr. Holmes
PS - Here are a some of your dedicated team members after a much deserved day off to visit the aquarium!