Week 1: Dermatology

I started my first week of clinics on Dermatology, which is known mostly for it's super relaxed hours--on the first day, I worked 12:30 to 3 pm. The rest of the week picked up a little bit, and I took my first case on Tuesday morning. Both of my cases this week were dogs that were itchy and red, and we tentatively diagnosed either food allergies or atopy (environmental allergies) for both of them. It was interesting to see the difference in the approach for clients who have different outlooks on their dogs' care, and for dogs at different stages in their lives.

The main challenge so far starting out has been figuring out logistical things, like where blood draw equipment is, how to request drugs in UVIS, and what my role is exactly during appointments and rounds. It's also a little intimidating talking to clients, who are relying on you for almost all the information they'll get.

In Ithaca news, it's been snowing just a little bit nearly every day since I got back, so I wake up to a nice dusting on my car each morning. At least it keeps the snow looking fresh and not dirty, which makes Ithaca a much more beautiful place.

Aaaand, I'm back!

At the request of my dad, I'm starting up the blog again! After finishing up coursework for my third year, and then taking a nice long vacation, I'm finally starting my clinical rotations. I started on clinics a few days ago, meaning I'm working in the vet hospital at Cornell seeing patients, and I'll be there (mostly) until I graduate in May, 2012.

I'll try to post every week or so, and for the sake of client-patient confidentiality I'll change names and pertinent details so no one can be identified...hopefully I can still give you an idea of what life is like as a vet student at Cornell!