RANT HERE thread

[DVM882029]

Yep. I'm thinking about while it would've been a better financial decision to attend my in-state, my mental health if I were in Texas? Ha. Let's not think about that.
And hey! What's a bad financial decision in the face of the dissolution of the DOE? Nothing matters 🙂

The only way I'm staying positive about going IS in TX is the mad cheap tuition will allow us more freedom in 4 years and it's an excellent DVM program. 😢

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[potentialsheltervet]

The only way I'm staying positive about going IS in TX is the mad cheap tuition will allow us more freedom in 4 years and it's an excellent DVM program. 😢

Very fair points. I was raised and did undergrad there though so I was going to go (more) crazy if I didn't leave.

 

[DVM882029]

Very fair points. I was raised and did undergrad there though so I was going to go (more) crazy if I didn't leave.

I joke that we are driving out of the graduation ceremony in a uHaul.

 

[futurefishdr]

Idk if it’s because of the current state of the US or what but the cost of my dogs meds have gone up everywhere 😭
My dog’s addisonian so a bottle of percorten-v was already $205 at my clinic but sometimes I could find deals at online pharmacies. Looks like in the past two months, price has gone up to $233 everywhere online. Luckily my vet hasn’t changed the price but god, the cost is already unreal.
I have to get monthly refills so if it keeps climbing or my clinic raises their price to match, idk what I’ll do

 

[battie]

Idk if it’s because of the current state of the US or what but the cost of my dogs meds have gone up everywhere 😭
My dog’s addisonian so a bottle of percorten-v was already $205 at my clinic but sometimes I could find deals at online pharmacies. Looks like in the past two months, price has gone up to $233 everywhere online. Luckily my vet hasn’t changed the price but god, the cost is already unreal.
I have to get monthly refills so if it keeps climbing or my clinic raises their price to match, idk what I’ll do

I was just saying to a co-doctor that we will probably be doing more and more cowboy medicine when clients cannot afford certain things. And I effectively am thinking my euth rate for diabetes and Addison's will be going up depending on the size of the dog

 

[indysadventures]

Idk if it’s because of the current state of the US or what but the cost of my dogs meds have gone up everywhere 😭
My dog’s addisonian so a bottle of percorten-v was already $205 at my clinic but sometimes I could find deals at online pharmacies. Looks like in the past two months, price has gone up to $233 everywhere online. Luckily my vet hasn’t changed the price but god, the cost is already unreal.
I have to get monthly refills so if it keeps climbing or my clinic raises their price to match, idk what I’ll do

Hey, my Indy was also an Addisonian! Though I was lucky, she was an Frenchie so percorten wasn’t insanely expensive, and more importantly, we had good insurance. Are you on the Addison’s dogs FB page? I think there’s info on there about vouchers/fee assistance from the manufacturers, but it may be for zycortal (versus percorten). Indy had zycortal quite often when percorten had some of their manufacture freezes. If you aren’t I’ll find the page and send you the link if you’d like, they were always so helpful when Indy was still here. ❤️

 

[futurefishdr]

Hey, my Indy was also an Addisonian! Though I was lucky, she was an Frenchie so percorten wasn’t insanely expensive, and more importantly, we had good insurance. Are you on the Addison’s dogs FB page? I think there’s info on there about vouchers/fee assistance from the manufacturers, but it may be for zycortal (versus percorten). Indy had zycortal quite often when percorten had some of their manufacture freezes. If you aren’t I’ll find the page and send you the link if you’d like, they were always so helpful when Indy was still here. ❤️

I don’t have fb unfortunately but I’d love the link anyway! I could have a friend or my mom follow it for me 🙂 I have heard of people using zycortal. But from what I’ve seen, zycortal is more expensive than percorten?
I wish my insurance covered it but she got diagnosed so young that I didn’t have insurance at that time

 

[futurefishdr]

I was just saying to a co-doctor that we will probably be doing more and more cowboy medicine when clients cannot afford certain things. And I effectively am thinking my euth rate for diabetes and Addison's will be going up depending on the size of the dog

I was a pharmacy tech at my clinic 2 years ago and when I started, a bottle of percorten was $185, the past year or so I’ve been paying $205 and now it’s gone up to $233 in just a few months. Insulin prices were also started to creep but I don’t know the current trend.
But I see what you mean, my dogs a Rottweiler so I have to buy a new bottle for every dose and as a broke college student, it’s a struggle for us big dog owners. I remember getting jealous seeing small Addison’s patients getting only 1ml per dose

 

[pp9]

I was just saying to a co-doctor that we will probably be doing more and more cowboy medicine when clients cannot afford certain things. And I effectively am thinking my euth rate for diabetes and Addison's will be going up depending on the size of the dog

Just this past weekend, my cousin popped out of the woodwork and grilled me about whether or not she actually had to treat her cat's diabetes 😒

At the very start of COVID, when people were losing their jobs left and right, I was euthanizing some extremely treatable conditions. Some so treatable that I honestly don't even want to give examples. I still think about those people and those pets, and the heartbreak and shame those people felt. But when you have no money and are faced with losing your housing, the low cost clinic isn't low cost enough/can't get you in for two weeks/can't actually do what that pet needs, the shelters/rescues are jam packed, and the pet is otherwise suffering +/- will die if the problem isn't addressed appropriately...man, I can't tell you how much time I spent making phone calls for those people/pets. I was calling within a 5 hour radius with no luck 9/10 times. On top of the people that abandoned their sick/dying pets in the ER (the curbside service made this extremely easy). We were desperate. We only had one euthanasia room, and it was almost never empty. FL opened back up really early, I have to imagine other states experienced that for even longer.

Advice: For you new grads/soon to be grads, set yourself up with your own supplier account ASAP. Get your pets' stuff way cheaper, unless your clinic is willing to sell you supplies/drugs at cost (I've never worked at a clinic willing to do that, but maybe they exist?). You can do this as soon as you have your license in hand. If you don't end up in small animal med you don't have access to free flea/HW stuff from reps, discounted Hills/Purina/RC (which is infuriating), etc. Cut costs where you can.

 

[indysadventures]

I was a pharmacy tech at my clinic 2 years ago and when I started, a bottle of percorten was $185, the past year or so I’ve been paying $205 and now it’s gone up to $233 in just a few months. Insulin prices were also started to creep but I don’t know the current trend.
But I see what you mean, my dogs a Rottweiler so I have to buy a new bottle for every dose and as a broke college student, it’s a struggle for us big dog owners. I remember getting jealous seeing small Addison’s patients getting only 1ml per dose

The link is Addison Dogs - Canine Addison Disease

They were immensely helpful! At least one of the head moderators is a veterinarian, and there’s often cost-saving help as well as information on low-dose protocols for percorten/zycortal - Indy was 25lb/11.3kg, maintained without crisis for the rest of her life on 0.48ml (1.1 mg/kg) every 28 days, her low-dose protocol all overseen by her IM specialist.

She was diagnosed in 2018, so a quick google search looks like maybe that’s not cutting edge anymore!

But just in case, here’s an MSU study published in 2021 that confirms the efficacy and safety of the low-dose protocol - it saved us a lot of money because it cut Indy’s dose in half. Low-dose Protocol DOCP

 

[BLOT0411]

Just this past weekend, my cousin popped out of the woodwork and grilled me about whether or not she actually had to treat her cat's diabetes 😒

At the very start of COVID, when people were losing their jobs left and right, I was euthanizing some extremely treatable conditions. Some so treatable that I honestly don't even want to give examples. I still think about those people and those pets, and the heartbreak and shame those people felt. But when you have no money and are faced with losing your housing, the low cost clinic isn't low cost enough/can't get you in for two weeks/can't actually do what that pet needs, the shelters/rescues are jam packed, and the pet is otherwise suffering +/- will die if the problem isn't addressed appropriately...man, I can't tell you how much time I spent making phone calls for those people/pets. I was calling within a 5 hour radius with no luck 9/10 times. On top of the people that abandoned their sick/dying pets in the ER (the curbside service made this extremely easy). We were desperate. We only had one euthanasia room, and it was almost never empty. FL opened back up really early, I have to imagine other states experienced that for even longer.

Advice: For you new grads/soon to be grads, set yourself up with your own supplier account ASAP. Get your pets' stuff way cheaper, unless your clinic is willing to sell you supplies/drugs at cost (I've never worked at a clinic willing to do that, but maybe they exist?). You can do this as soon as you have your license in hand. If you don't end up in small animal med you don't have access to free flea/HW stuff from reps, discounted Hills/Purina/RC (which is infuriating), etc. Cut costs where you can.

The amount of euthanasia's we did were heartbreaking during covid. And just as you said, so many treatable conditions that just couldn't be treated because of finances. I worked for a mobile clinic during covid and we were called multiple times a day by people just so they could possibly say goodbye at home instead of having to wait outside while it was done. It was such a drastic shift in the way I saw veterinary medicine.

 

[katiemcat]

 

[vampyrica]

View attachment 400359

jail.

 

[katiemcat]

jail.

Already emailed every state official I can think of. I’m so disgusted….

 

[vampyrica]

Already emailed every state official I can think of. I’m so disgusted….

im so sorry 🙁 does that mean that some school in florida is planning to start a VPA degree? so far the only one i know of is CSU

 

[Cowsrcool]

View attachment 400359

Nope absolutely not

 

[katiemcat]

im so sorry 🙁 does that mean that some school in florida is planning to start a VPA degree? so far the only one i know of is CSU

UF hasn’t made a statement about it yet but they tend to bend the knee to the state goverment ….

 

[katiemcat]

Nope absolutely not

We are so cooked

 

[SkiOtter]

I've never worked at a clinic willing to do that, but maybe they exist?

(Mine does so it’s def possible but very rare)

 

[battie]

Mine does cost plus 10% for meds.

The current Colorado working VPA situation last I read stated that a VPA has to have a signed agreement with each individual doctor they work with filed with the board prior to when they start, and signing with a VPA cannot be a term of employment

 

[RespectTheChemistry]

I am just so ****ing sick of delayed gratification. I don't have enough pants that fit. I can't just buy pants in the appropriate size because I am trying not to take out more debt at 8% than I absolutely have to and so literally all my money goes to school. This means all my pants are too big and make me look bigger than I really am (which makes me feel bad about my body) or are way too small (which makes me feel bad about my body). I am exhausted. I am hungry. I haven't gotten out to see my best friend in a neighboring state in months. I have days where I am just really sick of this.

 

[alyssa13]

honestly this app cycle was so dehumanizing worst experience of my life lol

 

[alyssa13]

hey me again lol but i got my final rejection today.. im in shambles but cant say im surprised and having opened it then go back to 4 more hours of work and appointments destroyed me internally anywayyy lol i'm reviewing everything this cycle and i was accepted to SGU but I've been declined for all of the US/one UK schools or waitlisted (LSU, Royal, Miss State but i'm near the bottom of the waitlist so I have low hopes and am treating it as a rejection for the time being). Truthfully, I cant decide if SGU would be a good fit or if its worth reapplying because I'm not sure if I could mentally put myself through another year of applications but I truly don't think or know if I would be happy in Grenada. Truth be told the thought of having to move to a different country where I won't know anyone, stressing my cat out bringing her (I cannot leave her home because her and my other cat fight everyday and this cat is so attached to me), not knowing what I would do over breaks (trying to reduce bringing my cat back and forth), and I adore concerts and knowing I won't be able to even have the chance to go for 3+ years just sounds like a recipe for diaster for me lol (I know thats a champagne problem but its huge in my world lol not to pull the mental health card but I have a mood disorder and in the midst of my depressive times the one thing that puts a smile on my face is music/having live music to look forward to its my biggest personality trait besides vet med lol ). Also the fact that pet supplies, grocieries, healthcare for me to have meds, etc are not as abundant and I would not have transportation unless I buy a car on the island which does not sound attainable financially...
But listing the negatives makes me think.. I know why would I apply and take a spot if I'm not sure if I would want to go.. but truthfully I was just trying to get in SOMEWHERE and hopeful for at least 1 US school my stats arent awful, granted they aren't anywhere near the best but now just feel so defeated. I feel like someone who would love Grenada deserves it more than me but I'm also asking myself if my passion to get a DVM is worth it having 3 years of what I imagine will be unhappiness. Sorry for being so dramatic and pessimistic I'm just going through it today.. literally want to lock myself away and cry in fetal position rn lol im just so stressed and have like one month to make this HUGE decision. and if the chance to get pulled off the LSU waitlist does come up I'm also thinking of the $400 I would lose putting my deposit down on Grenada which also stresses me out rn :/
But that brings me to my final take of I truthfully do not think that reapplying would be worth it for me. One of my LORs retired and I dont have a way of contacting him so I'd be down to 2 unless I can find someone else to write it and this is a prof I TA'd for 2 years with so I'd like to think it was a strong letter. I also did not do much to add to my application besides working as a VA/unlicensed VT at my one doctor practice I have been at. I didnt shadow any more vets, didnt volunteer anywhere, didnt take any classes etc. All I've done is worked in my vet hospital and as a barista at a coffee shop and attend some concerts lol. I feel like I wasted my gap year because I got my SGU acceptance in September and was so excited to say I'd be attending vet school in August but now all that excitement faded and I just dont know what to do. Im sorry this was so long and after typing that I feel like I should have an answer, or how conflicted I am should act as an answer but I see no clarity. ty if anyone actually read this or part of it and responds im really going through it lol

 

[battie]

I know thats a champagne problem

Sidebar: it's ridiculous that we as a society have taught ourselves that anyone with a "privileged" / "first world" / "champagne" problem has to preface their complaint with what is an essentially a reduction of their own feelings is ridiculous.

Seriously considering whether or not going to the islands is worthwhile because you won't get concerts is a valid concern in your world, and your world is the one that matters in the context of this discussion.

 

[JaynaAli]

@alyssa13 It’s sometimes hard to know what to do. Obviously only you can decide what’s best for you, but you got in! I usually tell people not to decline acceptances unless you’re okay with the possibility of not getting in again…you just never know how admissions will go in another cycle. It’s valid to decide the career isn’t something you want to pursue, but if you do want to be a veterinarian, I’d be very careful declining an acceptance. You bring up very valid concerns about an island school, but also, there will be others there too with many of the same challenges and in the grand scheme of life, three years is a short time and time will fly by. It’s not uncommon to feel nervous, scared, apprehensive or whatever before starting a big journey like vet school. No matter what you choose, things will likely be okay! I know this probably doesn’t help you decide, but just know your feelings are very valid and normal.

 

[indysadventures]

hey me again lol but i got my final rejection today.. im in shambles but cant say im surprised and having opened it then go back to 4 more hours of work and appointments destroyed me internally anywayyy lol i'm reviewing everything this cycle and i was accepted to SGU but I've been declined for all of the US/one UK schools or waitlisted (LSU, Royal, Miss State but i'm near the bottom of the waitlist so I have low hopes and am treating it as a rejection for the time being). Truthfully, I cant decide if SGU would be a good fit or if its worth reapplying because I'm not sure if I could mentally put myself through another year of applications but I truly don't think or know if I would be happy in Grenada. Truth be told the thought of having to move to a different country where I won't know anyone, stressing my cat out bringing her (I cannot leave her home because her and my other cat fight everyday and this cat is so attached to me), not knowing what I would do over breaks (trying to reduce bringing my cat back and forth), and I adore concerts and knowing I won't be able to even have the chance to go for 3+ years just sounds like a recipe for diaster for me lol (I know thats a champagne problem but its huge in my world lol not to pull the mental health card but I have a mood disorder and in the midst of my depressive times the one thing that puts a smile on my face is music/having live music to look forward to its my biggest personality trait besides vet med lol ). Also the fact that pet supplies, grocieries, healthcare for me to have meds, etc are not as abundant and I would not have transportation unless I buy a car on the island which does not sound attainable financially...
But listing the negatives makes me think.. I know why would I apply and take a spot if I'm not sure if I would want to go.. but truthfully I was just trying to get in SOMEWHERE and hopeful for at least 1 US school my stats arent awful, granted they aren't anywhere near the best but now just feel so defeated. I feel like someone who would love Grenada deserves it more than me but I'm also asking myself if my passion to get a DVM is worth it having 3 years of what I imagine will be unhappiness. Sorry for being so dramatic and pessimistic I'm just going through it today.. literally want to lock myself away and cry in fetal position rn lol im just so stressed and have like one month to make this HUGE decision. and if the chance to get pulled off the LSU waitlist does come up I'm also thinking of the $400 I would lose putting my deposit down on Grenada which also stresses me out rn :/
But that brings me to my final take of I truthfully do not think that reapplying would be worth it for me. One of my LORs retired and I dont have a way of contacting him so I'd be down to 2 unless I can find someone else to write it and this is a prof I TA'd for 2 years with so I'd like to think it was a strong letter. I also did not do much to add to my application besides working as a VA/unlicensed VT at my one doctor practice I have been at. I didnt shadow any more vets, didnt volunteer anywhere, didnt take any classes etc. All I've done is worked in my vet hospital and as a barista at a coffee shop and attend some concerts lol. I feel like I wasted my gap year because I got my SGU acceptance in September and was so excited to say I'd be attending vet school in August but now all that excitement faded and I just dont know what to do. Im sorry this was so long and after typing that I feel like I should have an answer, or how conflicted I am should act as an answer but I see no clarity. ty if anyone actually read this or part of it and responds im really going through it lol

Here to say, that what you’re describing are absolutely not champagne problems. For many of us, there are things that may seem small to others - like concerts- that really matter. But when we’re facing the stress of something like vet school, they could be the difference between health and burnout. Especially when you’re facing a condition like a mood disorder - you deserve to feel comfortable with your choice for school.

Just to give commiserations - I’m autistic, and I absolutely have made decisions for school based on knowing myself and knowing that for me, certain comforts are a lifeline. They’re not optional, they’re essentials to keep my body and mind healthy.

Sending a big virtual hug. If you ever want to chat or vent, my DMs are always open. Give yourself some time to process the possibility of attending - and not attending - SGU. Maybe talk with a therapist, or at least a very trusted loved one.

 

[allygator13]

hey me again lol but i got my final rejection today.. im in shambles but cant say im surprised and having opened it then go back to 4 more hours of work and appointments destroyed me internally anywayyy lol i'm reviewing everything this cycle and i was accepted to SGU but I've been declined for all of the US/one UK schools or waitlisted (LSU, Royal, Miss State but i'm near the bottom of the waitlist so I have low hopes and am treating it as a rejection for the time being). Truthfully, I cant decide if SGU would be a good fit or if its worth reapplying because I'm not sure if I could mentally put myself through another year of applications but I truly don't think or know if I would be happy in Grenada. Truth be told the thought of having to move to a different country where I won't know anyone, stressing my cat out bringing her (I cannot leave her home because her and my other cat fight everyday and this cat is so attached to me), not knowing what I would do over breaks (trying to reduce bringing my cat back and forth), and I adore concerts and knowing I won't be able to even have the chance to go for 3+ years just sounds like a recipe for diaster for me lol (I know thats a champagne problem but its huge in my world lol not to pull the mental health card but I have a mood disorder and in the midst of my depressive times the one thing that puts a smile on my face is music/having live music to look forward to its my biggest personality trait besides vet med lol ). Also the fact that pet supplies, grocieries, healthcare for me to have meds, etc are not as abundant and I would not have transportation unless I buy a car on the island which does not sound attainable financially...
But listing the negatives makes me think.. I know why would I apply and take a spot if I'm not sure if I would want to go.. but truthfully I was just trying to get in SOMEWHERE and hopeful for at least 1 US school my stats arent awful, granted they aren't anywhere near the best but now just feel so defeated. I feel like someone who would love Grenada deserves it more than me but I'm also asking myself if my passion to get a DVM is worth it having 3 years of what I imagine will be unhappiness. Sorry for being so dramatic and pessimistic I'm just going through it today.. literally want to lock myself away and cry in fetal position rn lol im just so stressed and have like one month to make this HUGE decision. and if the chance to get pulled off the LSU waitlist does come up I'm also thinking of the $400 I would lose putting my deposit down on Grenada which also stresses me out rn :/
But that brings me to my final take of I truthfully do not think that reapplying would be worth it for me. One of my LORs retired and I dont have a way of contacting him so I'd be down to 2 unless I can find someone else to write it and this is a prof I TA'd for 2 years with so I'd like to think it was a strong letter. I also did not do much to add to my application besides working as a VA/unlicensed VT at my one doctor practice I have been at. I didnt shadow any more vets, didnt volunteer anywhere, didnt take any classes etc. All I've done is worked in my vet hospital and as a barista at a coffee shop and attend some concerts lol. I feel like I wasted my gap year because I got my SGU acceptance in September and was so excited to say I'd be attending vet school in August but now all that excitement faded and I just dont know what to do. Im sorry this was so long and after typing that I feel like I should have an answer, or how conflicted I am should act as an answer but I see no clarity. ty if anyone actually read this or part of it and responds im really going through it lol

SGU grad here. There are opportunities to see live music on the island, if you aren't picky about it (as in you want to go see specific bands you know vs. just any live music). There is the Grenada Music Festival, Carnival, and lots of live music at local restaurants multiple days of the week.

You don't necessarily have to buy a car, there are plenty of places on the island that rent them, and if you have roommates you can split the cost.

In terms of access to meds, I'm not sure about on the island itself for different prescription meds, but it may be possible to get a script for the amount you would need for a full term prior to going down (this is what I had to do for a rare medication I had to start taking during vet school), or have it mailed to you.

Plenty of students stay behind on the island during the shorter winter break, so you could either stay on the island too with your cat and take this time to do a lot of island exploring, or oftentimes the students that stay will petsit for others who go home and leave their pets. There are lots of ways to work around things that seem like major issues.

 

[alyssa13]

SGU grad here. There are opportunities to see live music on the island, if you aren't picky about it (as in you want to go see specific bands you know vs. just any live music). There is the Grenada Music Festival, Carnival, and lots of live music at local restaurants multiple days of the week.

You don't necessarily have to buy a car, there are plenty of places on the island that rent them, and if you have roommates you can split the cost.

In terms of access to meds, I'm not sure about on the island itself for different prescription meds, but it may be possible to get a script for the amount you would need for a full term prior to going down (this is what I had to do for a rare medication I had to start taking during vet school), or have it mailed to you.

Plenty of students stay behind on the island during the shorter winter break, so you could either stay on the island too with your cat and take this time to do a lot of island exploring, or oftentimes the students that stay will petsit for others who go home and leave their pets. There are lots of ways to work around things that seem like major issues.

thank you so so much this is reassuring to hear. it’s definitely a big step to commit to but this helped clear up a lot!

 

[MixedAnimals77]

So I ship cattle to Canada every week. Last week we didn't. We did this week. Every week moving forward at this time is TBD. It's all related to the tariffs and nobody knows what the heck is happening with all the back and forth. So for all the Maga people yes it's affecting even those even in Maga heavy areas AND in the Ag industry 🙄 #ftheorangepsycho

But the Canadian truckers brought hats and I got one. Gladly going to sport my canadian wear as a sign of protest and support for the Canadians.🇨🇦

 

[fauna]

how do you find a therapist!! i did therapy through my school and even that was a challenge because you would have to wait at least a month and a half before anyone was available. but now i’ve graduated. i did some looking on psychology today, sent an email to one, and she said she’s not accepting new clients. it sucks because when you need it the most, the last thing you want to do is set it all up. i know i need to bite the bullet and figure it out because time keeps passing and issues get bigger and i wish that i had the resources. any advice appreciated :,(

 

[katiemcat]

how do you find a therapist!! i did therapy through my school and even that was a challenge because you would have to wait at least a month and a half before anyone was available. but now i’ve graduated. i did some looking on psychology today, sent an email to one, and she said she’s not accepting new clients. it sucks because when you need it the most, the last thing you want to do is set it all up. i know i need to bite the bullet and figure it out because time keeps passing and issues get bigger and i wish that i had the resources. any advice appreciated :,(

I went through Alma as you can search for ones that take your insurance, have experience in the areas you want, credentials (highly recommend PhDs), and by area. I had an amazing experience and after seeing therapists since I was young due to childhood trauma this was the best therapist I had ever seen. I was even able to get to a point I was ready to stop seeing mine.

Find a Therapist Who's Right for You - Alma

Find a therapist who fits your needs. Explore mental healthcare providers that take your insurance, and start therapy on your terms.

secure.helloalma.com

 

[overcastkidjuno]

Truly feeling burned out on writing tests right now. I'm on my 10th midterm of the semester tomorrow, I still have 2 more within the next week, & then I have a 2 week break before I write 9 finals in 3 weeks. My studying is just getting lazier & lazier over time, I spent all day today literally just laying in bed with my eyes glazed over scrolling through the slide decks...

 

[breezywonton]

This isn't vet related, but long distance relationships are so f**king hard. My bf lives in Japan, so we can only afford to see each other twice a year at best. Time zone differences only leave a few hours in the day when we're both awake to talk. With me going to vet school soon, my funds will be tight, and idk if I have the money to travel. He came to visit me for 3 weeks and just left yesterday, and I've been a mess. We plan to live together after we both graduate from vet school, but that will be a minimum of 4 years, + it'll be hard since Japanese vet schools aren't recognized in the States and vice versa. I saw a couple in class today holding hands, and I had to hold myself back from crying, lol. UGH WHY DID I FALL FOR SOMEONE ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD

 

[katiemcat]

Visited some friends I went to college with this week and stayed in their guest house of their brand new house. My dogs were so happy running on their fenced in acre. I’m so happy for them but it also stung a bit that this won’t be possible for us for a little while because I’ve decided to shoot myself in the foot financially with vet school. I love what I do but it just sucks.

 

[futurefishdr]

Someone in my TikTok comments tried to tell me you only have to give heartworm prevention every 5 months because it takes 6 months for hw to mature to adulthood.
This was bc I commented on a dog owners “controversial things they do with their dog” video where they said they don’t give heartworm prevention at all. O said she doesn’t give it bc she lives in the UK where there aren’t heart worms but correct me if I’m wrong, there are other intestinal parasites lurking in the UK that prevention protects against

Please someone save me from the ignorance

 

[asu12u4]

hey me again lol but i got my final rejection today.. im in shambles but cant say im surprised and having opened it then go back to 4 more hours of work and appointments destroyed me internally anywayyy lol i'm reviewing everything this cycle and i was accepted to SGU but I've been declined for all of the US/one UK schools or waitlisted (LSU, Royal, Miss State but i'm near the bottom of the waitlist so I have low hopes and am treating it as a rejection for the time being). Truthfully, I cant decide if SGU would be a good fit or if its worth reapplying because I'm not sure if I could mentally put myself through another year of applications but I truly don't think or know if I would be happy in Grenada. Truth be told the thought of having to move to a different country where I won't know anyone, stressing my cat out bringing her (I cannot leave her home because her and my other cat fight everyday and this cat is so attached to me), not knowing what I would do over breaks (trying to reduce bringing my cat back and forth), and I adore concerts and knowing I won't be able to even have the chance to go for 3+ years just sounds like a recipe for diaster for me lol (I know thats a champagne problem but its huge in my world lol not to pull the mental health card but I have a mood disorder and in the midst of my depressive times the one thing that puts a smile on my face is music/having live music to look forward to its my biggest personality trait besides vet med lol ). Also the fact that pet supplies, grocieries, healthcare for me to have meds, etc are not as abundant and I would not have transportation unless I buy a car on the island which does not sound attainable financially...
But listing the negatives makes me think.. I know why would I apply and take a spot if I'm not sure if I would want to go.. but truthfully I was just trying to get in SOMEWHERE and hopeful for at least 1 US school my stats arent awful, granted they aren't anywhere near the best but now just feel so defeated. I feel like someone who would love Grenada deserves it more than me but I'm also asking myself if my passion to get a DVM is worth it having 3 years of what I imagine will be unhappiness. Sorry for being so dramatic and pessimistic I'm just going through it today.. literally want to lock myself away and cry in fetal position rn lol im just so stressed and have like one month to make this HUGE decision. and if the chance to get pulled off the LSU waitlist does come up I'm also thinking of the $400 I would lose putting my deposit down on Grenada which also stresses me out rn :/
But that brings me to my final take of I truthfully do not think that reapplying would be worth it for me. One of my LORs retired and I dont have a way of contacting him so I'd be down to 2 unless I can find someone else to write it and this is a prof I TA'd for 2 years with so I'd like to think it was a strong letter. I also did not do much to add to my application besides working as a VA/unlicensed VT at my one doctor practice I have been at. I didnt shadow any more vets, didnt volunteer anywhere, didnt take any classes etc. All I've done is worked in my vet hospital and as a barista at a coffee shop and attend some concerts lol. I feel like I wasted my gap year because I got my SGU acceptance in September and was so excited to say I'd be attending vet school in August but now all that excitement faded and I just dont know what to do. Im sorry this was so long and after typing that I feel like I should have an answer, or how conflicted I am should act as an answer but I see no clarity. ty if anyone actually read this or part of it and responds im really going through it lol

I know I am a little late to this one but I wanted to jump on here and tell you that you are not alone in these feelings. I am in the same situation but for Ross on St. Kitts and I had the same reaction when my last US school rejected me. I was also hoping to get into a least 1 state school but even with 2 interviews I didn't get into any. I decided that reapplying was not a good option for me. I had applied 4 times already and I finally got my one chance. I had to take it but I also have so many questions on how it is going to work. I have a dog that will be coming with me and a family that I will be leaving behind until we can find a place that will work for us. Its a hard decision but I have been dreaming of this moment for YEARS! This is my moment and I can't just throw that away. I'm so excited for you and your journey and for you to accomplish your dream to become a vet. I hope to bring you comfort in the thoughts I share with you and I know we are not the only ones that have these feelings. Those islands are full of students just like us that took their chance at success.

 

[katiemcat]

Someone in my TikTok comments tried to tell me you only have to give heartworm prevention every 5 months because it takes 6 months for hw to mature to adulthood.
This was bc I commented on a dog owners “controversial things they do with their dog” video where they said they don’t give heartworm prevention at all. O said she doesn’t give it bc she lives in the UK where there aren’t heart worms but correct me if I’m wrong, there are other intestinal parasites lurking in the UK that prevention protects against

Please someone save me from the ignorance

Hey, I don’t live in the UK but I spend a lot of time there! So it’s true that heartworm was super uncommon in the UK due to the climate. But recently (like everywhere else) they’ve started to see cases in non-endemic areas of Europe including the UK. I definitely would think it smart to maintain heartworm prevention year round due to this. The cases they have been diagnosing tend to be later stage with permanent damage as it’s less often screened for as well.

https://www.veterinaryirelandjournal.com/images/pdf/focus/focus1_may_2020.pdf

“Historically, heartworm was present only in the southern European countries, however this distribution has been continuously changing in recent years due to environmental and climate change factors, along with changes in the movement of pets within the European Union.”

 

[battie]

If heartworm occurred at the rate it does in the US (1 million+ dogs diagnosed) in humans, people would freak out. Especially since treatment is not benign. That would be 5 million people per year.

Depending on the origin of the dog, I may start adding a heartworm test onto my cardio work ups, especially if I suspect right sided heart failure.

 

[JaynaAli]

If heartworm occurred at the rate it does in the US (1 million+ dogs diagnosed) in humans, people would freak out. Especially since treatment is not benign. That would be 5 million people per year.

Depending on the origin of the dog, I may start adding a heartworm test onto my cardio work ups, especially if I suspect right sided heart failure.

One of my patients 4th year on cardio was the police dog from my hometown presenting for a heart failure workup. Yep, heartworm positive. The old vet in town used to tell people he’d never seen a positive that lived in our town, they’d all traveled somewhere else…but I 100% believe it’s because he didn’t test them. We live in a very endemic area. They also only did “summertime” hwp not year round. Expensive lesson for the police department.

It’s true it takes six months for baby heartworm to turn to adults, but the meds aren’t as effective on older larvae which is why we treat monthly.

 

[battie]

One of my patients 4th year on cardio was the police dog from my hometown presenting for a heart failure workup. Yep, heartworm positive. The old vet in town used to tell people he’d never seen a positive that lived in our town, they’d all traveled somewhere else…but I 100% believe it’s because he didn’t test them. We live in a very endemic area. They also only did “summertime” hwp not year round. Expensive lesson for the police department.

It’s true it takes six months for baby heartworm to turn to adults, but the meds aren’t as effective on older larvae which is why we treat monthly.

And we know for a fact we're under diagnosing because not every kiddo is tested, like you pointed out. The recent vet girl podcast covered this, but the main problem in the US is bringing dogs up from the south for shelters to adopt from in the north. And Hurricane Katrina is the primary starting point as well.

 

[katiemcat]

And we know for a fact we're under diagnosing because not every kiddo is tested, like you pointed out. The recent vet girl podcast covered this, but the main problem in the US is bringing dogs up from the south for shelters to adopt from in the north. And Hurricane Katrina is the primary starting point as well.

And it will continue as our Florida shelters continue to ship dogs up north because our state government will not do anything to intact / enforce animal ownership, breeding, and abuse laws…..

 

[DVM882029]

Someone in my TikTok comments tried to tell me you only have to give heartworm prevention every 5 months because it takes 6 months for hw to mature to adulthood.
This was bc I commented on a dog owners “controversial things they do with their dog” video where they said they don’t give heartworm prevention at all. O said she doesn’t give it bc she lives in the UK where there aren’t heart worms but correct me if I’m wrong, there are other intestinal parasites lurking in the UK that prevention protects against

Please someone save me from the ignorance

Don't forget, if you live in a gated community you won't have a risk of heartworms either. They can't enter without a pass.

(Multiple clients over many years have said similar BS. It's hilarious).

 

[vampyrica]

My manager just full blown scolded me like a child for pointing...she yelled "Do not point at people!" when I didn't even point at her...I pointed to the PCR result photo on the desk..I am over twenty years their junior and I get yelled at on the daily for **** I do or don't do (without prior instruction to do or not do it), there are so many things I could complain about. At first this job was absolutely fantastic and I loved every minute of it, and now I dread going home everyday because I know I need to come right to the chaos tomorrow. I want to stay as long as I can, but tbh the money isn't even worth it. I just don't want to ruin whatever relationship I have with these people..

IDEK what to say or do right now.

 

[overcastkidjuno]

And it will continue as our Florida shelters continue to ship dogs up north because our state government will not do anything to intact / enforce animal ownership, breeding, and abuse laws…..

Heartworm isn't endemic in Nova Scotia but we have sooo many people adopting from the southern US the past few years that it feels like we're constantly seeing dogs full of it!

 

[katiemcat]

My manager just full blown scolded me like a child for pointing...she yelled "Do not point at people!" when I didn't even point at her...I pointed to the PCR result photo on the desk..I am over twenty years their junior and I get yelled at on the daily for **** I do or don't do (without prior instruction to do or not do it), there are so many things I could complain about. At first this job was absolutely fantastic and I loved every minute of it, and now I dread going home everyday because I know I need to come right to the chaos tomorrow. I want to stay as long as I can, but tbh the money isn't even worth it. I just don't want to ruin whatever relationship I have with these people..

IDEK what to say or do right now.

I quit my job a month after getting into vet school. I told them I wanted to take some time off before school, but really the toxicity was getting severe and I didn’t need it anymore. Put in your 2 weeks and take the summer off if you can afford.

 

[alyssa13]

I know I am a little late to this one but I wanted to jump on here and tell you that you are not alone in these feelings. I am in the same situation but for Ross on St. Kitts and I had the same reaction when my last US school rejected me. I was also hoping to get into a least 1 state school but even with 2 interviews I didn't get into any. I decided that reapplying was not a good option for me. I had applied 4 times already and I finally got my one chance. I had to take it but I also have so many questions on how it is going to work. I have a dog that will be coming with me and a family that I will be leaving behind until we can find a place that will work for us. Its a hard decision but I have been dreaming of this moment for YEARS! This is my moment and I can't just throw that away. I'm so excited for you and your journey and for you to accomplish your dream to become a vet. I hope to bring you comfort in the thoughts I share with you and I know we are not the only ones that have these feelings. Those islands are full of students just like us that took their chance at success.

thank you so much for your input! i havent put down my deposit yet because ive been busy and ive been contemplating it but i've talked to family, friends, coworkers and all of them have told me how much i'd regret not taking the chance at my dream when i have it available, and if i get off a waitlist for a US schools (LSU im looking at you lol) I can cross that bridge when I get there. Even though it will be an adjustment, it's also a doctorate degree and a unique experience to live somewhere and find myself somewhere I otherwise wouldn't. Hopefully all will work out with you at Ross!

 

[futurefishdr]

Hey, I don’t live in the UK but I spend a lot of time there! So it’s true that heartworm was super uncommon in the UK due to the climate. But recently (like everywhere else) they’ve started to see cases in non-endemic areas of Europe including the UK. I definitely would think it smart to maintain heartworm prevention year round due to this. The cases they have been diagnosing tend to be later stage with permanent damage as it’s less often screened for as well.

https://www.veterinaryirelandjournal.com/images/pdf/focus/focus1_may_2020.pdf

“Historically, heartworm was present only in the southern European countries, however this distribution has been continuously changing in recent years due to environmental and climate change factors, along with changes in the movement of pets within the European Union.”

Yeah even hearing her say she’s in the UK wasn’t enough for me. Especially hearing a lot of vets talking about dogs being brought in from shelters in places with heartworm. It’s just not worth the risk.

One of my patients 4th year on cardio was the police dog from my hometown presenting for a heart failure workup. Yep, heartworm positive. The old vet in town used to tell people he’d never seen a positive that lived in our town, they’d all traveled somewhere else…but I 100% believe it’s because he didn’t test them. We live in a very endemic area. They also only did “summertime” hwp not year round. Expensive lesson for the police department.

It’s true it takes six months for baby heartworm to turn to adults, but the meds aren’t as effective on older larvae which is why we treat monthly.

I used to have to push parvo vaccines (YES PARVO) bc of how prevalent it was in our area but people still wouldn’t listen. We saw a parvo case at least once a week.
Heartworm isn’t super prevalent here but there’s been enough cases that our doctors push monthly prevention and usually clients are receptive. I have a deathly fear of hw so my pets never miss a dose

 

[BunnyFluffy]

thank you so much for your input! i havent put down my deposit yet because ive been busy and ive been contemplating it but i've talked to family, friends, coworkers & the doctor i work for and all of them have told me how much i'd regret not taking the chance at my dream when i have it available, and if i get off a waitlist for a US schools (LSU im looking at you lol) I can cross that bridge when I get there. Even though it will be an adjustment, it's also a doctorate degree and a unique experience to live somewhere and find myself somewhere I otherwise wouldn't. Hopefully all will work out with you at Ross!

While not quite in the same situation, I definitely feel you! I was aiming to get into my instate, Oregon, and it would have been perfect if I did. I live 10 minutes away from the campus, my parents met at that college and I was born in Corvallis, I was practically raised to be a beaver and had imagined my vet school experience in that school since forever. I got straight up rejected after my interview with them, and I was devastated. I had an acceptance from Glasgow at this time, but everyone in my family, my boyfriend, and myself had all been holding out for Oregon.

The thought had occurred to me that maybe I should wait and try again next year, but not only is it financially almost impossible for me to retake the classes I did poorly in, but it would include another year of fees, waiting, and inevitable disappointment. I decided I would rather go to the 5 year program, and actually get started being a student, rather than wait and hope for another acceptance, if I got another the third time around (even though I'd be graduating at the same time if I waited).

Since, I've had to stress about where my snake and rabbit will be going, how I'm going to make my relationship work with such a time difference and being so far, the additional visa fees, finding housing, etc. I still think about how easy it would have been if I had just made the cut for Oregon, but I chose to take it as a sign that this is an opportunity to try new things, and really spread my wings and see how well I can do. It's scary, the prospect of moving to a new country for school, but so many others have done it and I think it's a great opportunity, whether it's in the UK or Grenada!

For some additional perspective, I work with a Rossie vet right now, and he talks VERY highly of the program. He says it's what he needed at that point in life, and attributes it to part of who he is today. He feels like he got a great education, had a good experience living on the island, and is now a successful associate vet who does mostly dentals and GP 3x a week at our clinic.

Sorry for the rant, but I wanted to let you know others feel the same way, and that it's ok to be nervous! It sounds like you have a great support system, just remember to follow your gut and how you feel, and it'll all turn out okay!

 

[battie]

And it will continue as our Florida shelters continue to ship dogs up north because our state government will not do anything to intact / enforce animal ownership, breeding, and abuse laws…..

Not that this is a great fact, but nowhere really enforces their animal spay/neuter laws at all in my experience. No resources to send officers after people with intact animals that aren't registered tbh

I just don't want to ruin whatever relationship I have with these people..

I would say put in your notice and leave. That's the bare minimum and if giving notice puts you at odds with them, then you weren't going to leave on good terms at all.

I used to have to push parvo vaccines (YES PARVO) bc of how prevalent it was in our area but people still wouldn’t listen. We saw a parvo case at least once a week.

Same, we see parvo regularly at all three hospitals. Thankfully we have the CPMA, so that will hopefully help with the kiddos I can't keep in hospital.

 

[katiemcat]

Not that this is a great fact, but nowhere really enforces their animal spay/neuter laws at all in my experience. No resources to send officers after people with intact animals that aren't registered tbh

Disappointing, but the state of the animal overpopulation crisis in the south is also due to the added bonus of poor education / massive ignorance (as we all well know!)

I’m not sure what we can do anymore except advocate for S/N, volunteer, and foster.