Army Vet Life
Being an Army Veterinarian has taught me to be flexible, adaptable, and alert. My favorite part of my job was interacting with the Military Working Dogs (MWDs) and their handlers. It was significant to me to make sure that they maintained their health and were free of any stress or discomfort to complete their mission. Part of my job was also training the handlers and educating them on handling situations when they are in the field or deployed with the MWD. This training consisted of examples like assessing and treating heatstroke, how to perform CPR, how to handle a gunshot wound/explosive, or what to do when an MWD is exposed to a poison, etc.
While taking care of the MWDs, I was also the veterinarian for all government-owned animals (GOA) at or near the installation, such as the Mounted Color Guard Horses and the Calvary Horses. I felt exceptional knowing that I was trusted enough to have such a huge responsibility. One day, I would be at the stables administering a vaccine or a health certificate and then that night passing a nasogastric tube for colic. I was on call 24/7 for all GOAs near me. I also worked closely with the wildlife department and was able to work on desert tortoises, bobcats, wild donkeys, and many more desert species. Reaching out to the military community was vital to me as well. My team and I organized many events to promote awareness to the community and held events to have fun. We have organized events such as vaccine clinics, pictures with Santa, costume contests, etc.
