Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 7/21/2005

Question
My dream has always been to be either a vet, or a pediatrician. I have always leaned towards the vet more, because of the simple fact that I adore animals. I can never have enough pets and they are my ultimate passion. My problem is that I get extremely attached to animals. I know that sometimes they have to be put to sleep. I am concerned that I won't be able to handle that part of the job. I don't deal well with animals in pain and ending their lives. So, would you advise me to stay away from this field, or just get over my fear? Any help would be much appreciated!

Answer
Sometimes ending a patient's life by relieving pain and suffering is a blessing.  We never take euthanasia lightly, and we would never euthanize a healthy animal for no reason.  THe joy for me of being a vet is that I can take very sick and injured animals and return most of them to a good quality of life.  That benefits the animals and their loving owners.