The Multifaceted Role of a Veterinarian
Dr. Hannah Hunt, a mixed animal vet at Milfeddygon Ystwyth Vets in Aberystwyth, describes her job as diverse and challenging. “I can be a midwife, a dentist, a surgeon, a GP, and a farm health planner all in one day,” she explains. Her work ranges from routine check-ups and farm work to emergency surgeries and end-of-life care for beloved animals.
Being a vet requires a broad skill set, including problem-solving, perseverance, humor, and strong people communication skills. Dr. Hunt notes that euthanasia can be a difficult but sometimes necessary part of her job, offering a dignified end to an animal’s suffering.
The Reality of Veterinary Costs
Dr. Hunt highlights a significant issue in the veterinary field: many pet owners lack insurance for their pets. “There are now more animals without insurance than with,” she states, suggesting that some owners are deterred by the cost of insurance. This lack of coverage can limit the range of diagnostic options and treatments available for pets.
She emphasizes that veterinary care is not just about the consultation; it involves years of training, a team of nurses, emergency services, and maintaining a well-equipped facility. “Providing a veterinary service is more than just the 10-20 minute consultation,” Dr. Hunt explains.
Dr. Hunt compares the cost expectations for pet care to the NHS, where treatment is free at the point of use. “Owners forget that their pet is essentially a luxury item,” she says, although pets are often beloved family members. She argues that, by comparison, veterinary healthcare is cheaper than human healthcare, whether through the NHS or private services.
Advice for Pet Owners
When choosing a vet, Dr. Hunt advises owners to select a local practice with good emergency/out-of-hours provision. She stresses the importance of proximity, especially in emergencies like toxin ingestion or road traffic accidents.
Dr. Hunt also addresses the issue of unscrupulous members of the veterinary profession, stating that they are rare. Most vets act in the best interests of the animals and provide owners with treatment options and cost estimates.
The article concludes with Dr. Hunt sharing remarkable cases from her experience, including a sheepdog that was treated for internal bleeding after being headbutted by a ram and a camel castration for a traveling circus. These stories highlight the diversity and challenges of her role as a mixed animal vet.
