Dear Editor
The article by Alice Villalobos DVM in the November issue of Veterinary Practice News touched me and compelled me to send a letter commenting on and expanding on her observations. Your readers may find it worth while.
Richard Magidson
Ross Mill Farm, Inc.
(215) 233-1539
The Greatest Calling For Caregivers
I see it in his face, I hear it in his voice every time our veterinarian does his best and it is not good enough to alter life’s final lesson. Medicine is not enough to keep life forever and no amount of skill or talent will alter its course.
Alice Villalobos DVM November article touches on some of the issues; but these loyal, loving, accepting creatures have one final lesson to teach us. The lesson that life and death, in every form, is part of the circle of rebirth and that all things remain a part of our existence and that there is dignity in accepting this final act of love.
For the past 17 years, my wife and I run have run a foster care facility for over 150 animals. Our vet has been with us throughout it all. We have lost many. It is the most difficult thing we deal with and each one grieves us and leaves a mark on our heart. But if it were not for his work and ours, many more would suffer.
All we can do, every day, is our best and learn the lessons well; be loyal, loving and accepting creatures. There is no greater calling for practitioner, client or caregiver.