Vet Blogger Attempts to Join 2009
At a recent meeting with the powers-that-be at Dogster and Catster it was suggested that I join Twitter. I had heard of the site, but I didn’t really know what it was all about.
Veterinarians generally reject new developments and trends. This can have disastrous consequences for the practice of medicine: it is the cause of the “if rubbing turpentine on a dog’s scrotum to cure a cough was good enough in 1947, it’s good enough today” mentality that is disturbingly prevalent among older veterinary practitioners.
I therefore try to fight the change-averse veterinary frame of mind. And, in that vein, I set up a Twitter account. You can find it at:
I often come across links and stories that are interesting but not truly bloggable. I’ll use the Twitter account to share those links as well keep followers up-to-date on happenings here at the Vet Blog.
And you never know. If you follow me, I might follow you back.
Photo: Amos T Fairchild.
You have questions. 
I do not think it is fair to say that “veterinarians generally reject new developments”. I think, as in every field, some stick to “old school” ways but the majority are open to new ideas and treatments that will help their patients. I do think that many do not want to jump on every new idea that comes down the pike. They would prefer that new treatments are well-tested and proven.
Elliot says all this new stuff is great but very costly ,Our animals end up getting more attention the some poor soul in the e.r. . Well all these advances are great and yes they can save lives or tell you your dog will be dead by the next day ….that was a shock ! I have seen vet charge 40 dollars or more for an office call to get vaccinations (they charge another 20/30 or more dollars . The office call is suppose to cover a check up ,but I worked in a place where the check up was patting the dog on the head ,ask if there are any problems ….well vets thats what you are there for ,and there are nice ways to tell them the dog is to fat ……ask them to come in an weigh the dog every two weeks no charge …but it shows you care … they can’t afford that diet dog food …reduce food and add veggies ,green beans ,carrots,canned tomatoes . This shows them you are not just peddling expensive foods . Beef liver ,brown beans .and rice make up a complete meal . Some people when given the tools to work with and a little understanding . Lets see vets just use some good old common sense in treating animals . I once saw a vet present a 17 year old cat trying to die ,she ordered all the blood work she could think of. We put the cat on fluids for a day or so and sent the cat home feeling better . Another vet same situation ,we put the cat on fluids got her eating and she went home and lasted for awhile . As far as I am concerned first vet was out for the almighty buck . the second vet treated what she saw . Lets make vet care affordable by vets depending on the mind and not just machines that can pop out answers.
We just started Twitter about two months ago and LOVE it! It inspired us to start a blog for Kwitters (Kritters that Twitter) Click on Kritter Kondo, it will take you there!
Twitter is going to be as common as Google soon.
Thanks!
Madi and Abi and their Mommy.