It is a buzzing hive in back, EVERYONE is in motion. I get the feeling that the most these people ever eat are snacks on the go. No one is sitting, unless it is at a microscope.
The waiting room by contrast is deceptively quiet. A few people with appointments come in while we are learning about reception and watching the receptionist in action. She probably saved one cat's life (this from the group that had gone around before us). A woman brought a cat in wrapped in a towel, saying the cat wasn't feeling very well, and then went to go sit down and wait to be seen. The receptionist asked to take a look at the cat and immediately ascertained it was a life or death situation and ran with the cat in back to put her on oxygen.
There is a surgery finishing up as we walk back past the surgery area - a large dog has just had a splenectomy (removal of his spleen). I think it's a Golden Retriever but it's hard to tell as he is on the operating table all bundled up in blankets. His cage in the ICU is about 12 feet away and we can see it is all set up with a comforter, blood for his transfusion (apparently a splenectomy is a very bloody surgery) and other things. Two techs carry him, still bundled, and with the doctor they get him settled and hook him up to everything. Then everyone sits on the floor by his side. When we pass through again on our way back to the dog training room the two techs are both still sitting on the floor next to him, watching him intently, right by his side.
It makes me feel like there is true compassion here in the buzzy hive. I like the feeling. I like the activity. I just can't help but notice everyone here is so YOUNG.
But as Kathy Bates says in her triumphant moment in "Fried Green Tomatoes":
"Face it, girls. I'm older and I have more insurance." OK, I'll go along with that.
And you should also remember what Ninny Treadgoode said to Evelyn Couch (Kathy Bates): "I found out what the secret of life is: friends. Best friends." Your experience at the vet hospital reminds me that even the furry creatures we make our pets need best friends. Your secret has been revealed - Towanda!
ReplyDeletefascinating read, i feel like i'm there with you, learning and watching over your shoulder. it's never too late to learn. great blog.
ReplyDeleteOMG!! You write so well! I felt like I was right there living and breathing in that buzzing hive of activity! It is not only exciting for you, but thrilling
ReplyDeleteto realize that you are involved in saving the lives of our beloved animals!
Thanks for sharing your adventures!
Evonne