15 Lessons from 20 Years of Veterinary Practice That Changed My Approach

After 20 years in veterinary practice, I’ve learned a lot—both from the pets I’ve treated and from the pet owners I’ve worked with. These experiences have shaped the way I approach pet care, and I want to share some of the most important lessons that could help improve the health and well-being of your dog or cat. From holistic treatments to understanding the importance of nutrition, these lessons have not only changed how I practice but also how I support pet parents in giving their pets the best possible life.

If you’re looking to support your pet’s overall health, there’s no better time than now.

Why Choose Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Canine Health Formula for Your Dog?

Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Canine Health Formula is the ideal choice for pet owners who want to support their dog’s overall health and well-being. This comprehensive, all-natural formula promotes a variety of key benefits that will enhance your dog’s quality of life. It supports mobility and joint comfort, ensuring your dog can move freely and comfortably, whether climbing stairs or hopping into the car. The formula also boosts vitality and energy levels, helping your dog stay active and playful. 

Why Choose Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Feline for Your Cat?

Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Feline is specially designed to support your cat’s overall health, ensuring they live a long, happy, and active life. This holistic formula works in several ways to improve your cat’s well-being. It alleviates recurrent episodes of diarrhea and vomiting, supports digestive health, and promotes healthy mobility and joint function, especially important for aging cats.  This formula offers safe, supportive care, helping to manage aging symptoms. Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Feline is a must-have for your cat’s long-term health and happiness.

15 Lessons from 20 Years of Veterinary Practice That Changed My Approach

After 20 years in veterinary practice, I’ve learned countless lessons that have shaped how I care for animals. These lessons have not only helped me become a better vet, but they’ve also helped countless pets live longer, healthier lives. In this article, I’m sharing 15 of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned, which I hope will help you improve the health and well-being of your dog or cat.

1. Animals Are Awesome, People Not So Much

This might seem obvious, but animals are amazing. They offer unconditional love, and they don’t hold grudges. Over the years, I’ve realized how much I’ve learned from the animals I’ve worked with. They teach us about loyalty, acceptance, and living in the moment. Their ability to love despite the circumstances is something we can all learn from.

2. Embrace Other Perspectives

When I first started my career, I was fully trained in conventional medicine. But over time, I began to see the value in exploring alternative options. After working with clients who were open to holistic care, I realized that there are many ways to help a pet, not just the conventional route. This shift in perspective became especially important after losing Hoochie, a healthy lab-shepherd mix, to spleen cancer at just eight years old. Despite doing everything “right” with conventional treatments, it made me question whether there was a better way.

3. A Holistic Approach is Key

Looking at a pet from a holistic perspective has been one of the most important changes I’ve made in my practice. It’s not just about treating symptoms; it’s about understanding the full picture—physical, emotional, and mental health. Instead of just addressing a pet’s clinical signs, I’ve learned to look at the underlying causes of illness and treat those with both conventional and alternative methods.

4. Integrative Veterinary Care

I firmly believe in combining traditional veterinary practices with holistic care. This means using herbs, homeopathy, acupressure, and massage, alongside conventional treatments like antibiotics or pain medication. It’s about finding what works best for each individual pet and being open to all possibilities.

5. Nutrition is the Foundation of Health

Food plays a crucial role in your pet’s overall health. It impacts everything from the gut microbiome to the immune system, mental health, and even joint function. By feeding your pet a well-balanced diet with high-quality proteins, fats, and moderate carbohydrates, you’re setting them up for a healthier life. The right nutrition can prevent many illnesses and even help your pet avoid trips to the vet.

6. Vaccines: Less is More

I’ve become more conservative when it comes to vaccinating my pets. If I were to raise a puppy or kitten, I would vaccinate them only minimally, focusing on core vaccines like distemper and parvo, and I’d give rabies only if necessary. I believe many pets don’t need annual boosters. For some, immunity lasts much longer than we’re led to believe.

7. Use Fewer Conventional Medications

Over the years, I’ve learned to use fewer conventional medications like antibiotics and NSAIDs. Instead, I focus on natural alternatives when possible. For example, when treating a bladder infection or arthritis, I’ve seen great results with natural remedies like Bee Propolis or herbs, which can often provide relief without the side effects of traditional medications.

8. Get Involved in Your Pet’s Healthcare

I encourage all pet owners to learn more about their pets’ health and get involved in their care. This means knowing how to do basic health checks at home, such as checking their gums or learning how to administer subcutaneous fluids for hydration. When you’re more involved, you’re more likely to catch potential problems early, which can make a big difference in treatment.

9. The Impact of Money on Veterinary Care

Unfortunately, money plays a role in how pets receive care. Some pets don’t get the care they need because their owners can’t afford it. On the other hand, some pets receive unnecessary treatments simply because clinics are incentivized to sell more services. This has been a challenge in my practice, and I’ve always aimed to provide care based on what’s best for the pet, not what’s going to bring in more revenue.

10. Trust Your Instincts

As a vet, over time you develop a sixth sense when something isn’t right with an animal. If your pet’s symptoms don’t match the diagnosis or if you suspect something serious, trust your instincts. Don’t be afraid to seek further testing or second opinions. Your pet’s health is worth it.

11. Gratitude Makes a Big Difference

Being a veterinarian is not always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. The opportunity to help animals and make a positive impact in their lives and the lives of their owners is something I’ll always be grateful for. No matter how tough things get, I always remind myself how fortunate I am to be in this field.

12. Never Stop Learning

The world of veterinary care is constantly evolving, and I’ve learned that there’s always something new to discover. Whether it’s new treatments, innovative approaches, or even understanding the emotional connections pets have with their owners, there’s always something to learn. I’m constantly expanding my knowledge and applying it to better care for pets.

13. Healing Takes Time

True healing doesn’t happen overnight. Whether it’s allergies, digestive issues, or chronic conditions, it takes time to get to the root cause and make lasting changes. Patience is key, and I’ve learned that persistence in using natural remedies and taking a holistic approach is often the best path to long-term health.

14. Do the Right Thing

In my career, I’ve always tried to do what’s right, even when it’s difficult. Whether it was standing by my decision to resign from my practice after facing professional challenges or advocating for natural pet care, I’ve always aimed to make decisions based on what’s best for pets. It’s not always easy, but doing the right thing is always worth it in the end.

15. Be Grateful for Your Pets

At the end of the day, our pets are a huge part of our lives. They offer us love, comfort, and companionship. We’re lucky to have them, and we should be grateful for every moment we share with them. Whether they’re recovering from an illness or just being their loyal selves, remember that they’re always there to teach us how to live better lives.

Click To Get A Copy of E-Book: Pet Health Secrets Discover Holistic At-Home Remedies

Why Choose Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Canine Health Formula for Your Dog?

Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Canine Health Formula is the ideal choice for pet owners who want to support their dog’s overall health and well-being. This comprehensive, all-natural formula promotes a variety of key benefits that will enhance your dog’s quality of life. It supports mobility and joint comfort, ensuring your dog can move freely and comfortably, whether climbing stairs or hopping into the car. The formula also boosts vitality and energy levels, helping your dog stay active and playful. 

Why Choose Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Feline for Your Cat?

Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Feline is specially designed to support your cat’s overall health, ensuring they live a long, happy, and active life. This holistic formula works in several ways to improve your cat’s well-being. It alleviates recurrent episodes of diarrhea and vomiting, supports digestive health, and promotes healthy mobility and joint function, especially important for aging cats.  This formula offers safe, supportive care, helping to manage aging symptoms. Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Feline is a must-have for your cat’s long-term health and happiness.