In today’s world of extreme offensiveness, sensitive subjects and any ‘color matters’ movements, I want to talk about how PET LIVES MATTER. Every day I walk in my clinic I am thankful for where God has placed me and my family. I am thankful for a community who welcomed us with open arms and has supported us over the past 6 years. When I think back 6 years ago, I remember asking myself “will this make a difference in this area?” I’ll never forget the first client walking thru the door on my first day open. I had been staring at that door for hours hoping to see at least 1 client that day. Today we are blessed to have many clients walk through our door each day. So, I want to join this “lives matter” movement and tell everyone how “Pet Lives Matter”!
It’s been researched for many years how pets can improve quality of life. According to the National Center for Health Research, companion animals have been proven to lower blood pressure, regulate heart rhythm in stressful situations, and reduce anxiety in children. Elderly individuals owning a cat or dog were better able to perform physical demands of daily living from bending over, climbing stairs, and preparing meals. For certain elderly individuals, a companion animal is the only socialization they get on a daily basis. To have a living being who loves unconditionally is priceless, regardless of your age, color, race, income, height, weight, or any other label we put on ourselves.
To many, pets are family members. To others, pets are just an animal they control. To us veterinarians, pets are our livelihood. Not only are we supporting our families by caring for your pets, but we took an oath to uphold and honor the value of an animal’s life. I recently read an article containing statistics relating to veterinarians. I was shocked to discover veterinarians have the highest suicide rate of all professional occupations; twice as high as dentists & medical doctors, and four times as high as the general population. Veterinarians have the highest divorce rate, and one of the highest rates of depression & stress fatigue. I won’t lie to you, this downright scared me! It also made me question why I chose to be a veterinarian even after all these years of practicing.
But then, I think about the “good” part of veterinary medicine. I remember grateful clients bringing me food/gifts because I saved their pet. I remember praying with owners when it was time to say goodbye to a beloved pet and the tears shared between us. God has blessed me with a lot of good! Pets are so much more than just animals. They love, hurt, and can sense all emotions. Their lives matter! Not just to their owners, but to myself and the oath I took over 14 years ago. Give me a call at Garza County Animal Hospital for all your pet needs at (806) 495-3726. Our family is here for your family.