Veterinarians have many, many thoughts throughout the day that they should make time to share with their veterinary nurses. When we get busy we just never say them, or it seems cheesy to say it out loud.

We have fleeting thoughts that might really help our communication and hospital morale, but unfortunately never get around to it! Team meetings are a great place to say those things...but then we forget what it was that we wanted to say- being specific.

This is due to the stress surrounding our professional as a whole. When you see 25 or more patients a day as a vet you can really just focus on getting your tasks completed and client/patient care.

But honestly, we need to take care of each other and reach out in support when we can.

While we give bonuses and say thanks for your hard work, I believe that pointing out specifics are important. Really getting down to the nitty-gritty of WHY we LOVE you really is essential!

So, I thought it appropriate that I share some of my own specific appreciations for our veterinary technicians. I guarantee that your veterinarians feel the same for you.

1. THANK YOU for taking it upon yourself to help that owner that really needs extra emotional support when they come in. You know the one, that comes in and needs to share their life stories. They are really there more for companionship than a medical problem. YOU are a compassionate person. YOU have made that client's day a happier one. And that is something that YOU can feel good about and I appreciate what a good person you are for doing it.
2. THANK YOU for anticipating what I will need when I come out of the exam room. I realize that this is something that veterinary nurses figure out after working with you for a while. But, when I walk out of the room with that dog that needs aspirates, and I see the slides, needles, etc. set out for me already, I appreciate that! It doesn't just save me time but I see that you are paying attention to my needs and really there are not enough words to say thank you. Anticipation of the doctor's needs is a very special skill that is often under-appreciated and overall saves so much time.
3. THANK YOU for pointing out that mass under the chest that I didn't feel on my physical exam but you found when you were holding the pet, petting that pet, and PAYING ATTENTION. You weren't just there complacently, but you were playing an active role. THAT can and has saved patients' lives. We really depend on you for your insight. Never be afraid to speak up or ask questions about something that you noticed!
4. THANK YOU for understanding when your colleagues have called in sick and you have to take a shorter lunch than you were expecting. I try not to ask, and really hate to shorten your lunch. But, you don't complain and do it gladly when I do have to ask, because you know how busy we are and that I count on you.  I really appreciate your dedication. Sometimes you even ask if I had lunch because you see that I didn't. You care about me, and I care about you too.
5. THANK YOU for helping when it is hard. Whether it is a case of neglect, critical circumstances, euthanasia, etc. you are there and willing to help and support not only the client, but me when I have to make those difficult recommendations or you have to assist in those unpleasant treatments. You trust me and you don't question my judgement. Your support is something that I cannot describe.

I could go on and on. But please know that even though our profession is a difficult one (no matter what our friends and family think) you are greatly valued in ALL that you do.

You should be proud of your work and continue to further your education in our profession. We just simply could not be the veterinarians we are without the amazing veterinary nurses you are to help us.

We all know it, we just don't say it enough. So, once again, THANK YOU for all you do.