"What is right is not always popular and what is popular is not always right."
— Albert Einstein
I suppose most folks have heard that quote somewhere before in one form or another. In veterinary medicine today, there is no statement more true, or more difficult to accomplish. As a vet, doing what is right often involves being an advocate for my patient. It means discussing all the options, and recommending the best solution to treat your pet's condition based on current medical knowledge, research and my experience. What is right is not necessarily the most expensive; it is not always the easiest on the pet owner's pocketbook. So, if doing what is right is my job, why do Yes Vets seem to garner all the glory?
Every city or town has one. Yes Vets are known for always bending rules for clients and waiving fees. Yes Vets don't need to perform those expensive lab tests or x-rays to find out what is wrong with your pet- they just know. Owners that always want a cortisone shot for their itchy pet- Sure and no questions asked says a Yes Vet.
A Yes Vet is usually very charismatic. He has learned that Vet Med is a people pleasing business and that you just need to read people, figure out what they really want, and say YES. Now while that sounds well and good, often the poor animal gets caught in the middle. That cortisone shot given to a diabetic or pet with cushings can cause severe harm or even death. Cancer patients that may have a future, are put to sleep without even discussing available options. Patients are diagnosed with heart failure without even an X-ray. Surgery is performed without sterile attire, without pain medication, and the high school kid monitoring your pet under anesthesia. And the list goes on and on.
Today I learned that a patient of mine with a ruptured ACL had a second opinion at a local Yes Vet. Although it is commonly accepted in Vet Med that ruptured ACL or cruciate ligaments need surgery, my client was told that she didn't need to do anything as ACLs heal on their own in small dogs. She of course was happy with this advice because it meant that she did not have to spend any money. Yes Vet is a hero but unfortunately her little dog will suffer the result.
What clients do not realize is saying yes is much easier than saying no. How beloved I would be if I could tell my clients with a radiant smile that YES, you don't need to give your cat pain medication after her surgery, why that lump is probably just a fatty tumor, YES we'll just watch it, allergies?- YES, here is some predisone and call me in the morning. Thing is- I like to sleep at night knowing I did the right thing for your pet. Ask yourself if your vet is a Yes Vet, then look at your pet and decide if he deserves better.
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