Valuable Lessons

I have now been a vet tech for almost 2 years. During this time, I've worked at 4 different clinics (3 of which were with Banfield), and have observed at several others. I've worked with 12 different vets, multiple other techs, and have interacted with countless clients. Throughout my time as a tech, I have learned several things, pertaining to both veterinary medicine and life in general.

• It's important to be good at multi-tasking.
• Everybody has different levels of understanding. Sometimes you have to explain things like you're talking to a 3-year-old. (without sounding too condescending)
• No matter how often you correct some people, they will still insist on saying "spaded" and "Lyme's disease."
• Sometimes you just have to fake a smile and move on with life.
• You can't please everybody; some people are just mad at the world.
• It's okay to cry.
• Friendship comes in all shapes and sizes.
• If you say "catheter" instead of "IV catheter", people automatically assume you're talking about a urinary catheter, and then a whole bunch of confusion ensues.
• Some people will do anything to get drugs.
• Communication is VERY important.
• Meals don't have to take place at the same time every day.
• Always check your pockets before leaving work.
• It's important to observe body language.
• Sometimes conflict is unavoidable.
• Invest in good footwear.
• Patience is key when dealing with angry cats. Quick reflexes and a good hold on the scruff also help. (The same can be said of angry clients.)
• Good dental hygiene is essential.
• You don't always get answers.
• Any animal will bite if it is hurt or scared. Even if the owner says, "oh, he's nice, he'll never bite anyone."
• There are about a dozen different breed names for a pitbull.
• Life isn't fair.
• Always keep a lint roller handy.
• Sometimes life gives you a lot of crap; you just gotta clean it up and move on.
• Everybody makes mistakes.
• Sometimes it's best to just quietly observe.
• You're not always appreciated for what you do, but that's not why you do it.
• Embrace your scars; they help make you who you are.
• The greatest thing in this world is holding a purring kitten.
• There's always something more to be learned.

I'm sure there are many more lessons in the years to come, but this is just a small portion of what I've learned so far. I only hope that I never stop learning and seeking to know more.