In 2002, I was hired as the first full time staff veterinarian at BJC Animal Control. Graduating at age 44, I had been in small animal private practice for 6 years, still looking for my "niche".
It was a "get down and dirty" job, not suited for the typical white coated professional but I loved it. Shelter medicine, as a veterinary specialty, was just beginning to come into its own. There were no rules, no guidelines or regulations, no established "job description". Mr. Smith hired me as both veterinarian and kennel manager, I had no idea at the time what was involved in either position, but it didn't take long to find out.
I was interviewed and hired on a Sunday. Mr. Smith took me on a tour of the place. The facility was so dirty and unkempt, I couldn't imagine that a person in their right mind would show a prospective employee around the place in such condition. Even the kitchen area that the employees used was just filthy. The refrigerator, where they stored their lunches was filthy. I do not sit in judgment, I imagine it was too difficult a task to keep clean without everyone doing their part.......
I was hired as both kennel manager and veterinarian, which I accepted. I was always up for a challenge. I just had no idea that both positions required full time attention. What I eventually heard from other employees, and I cannot say for sure this is what happened, that on that same Sunday Mr. Smith fired his kennel manager by phone call. Knowing what I know now, I believe he was just doing everything he could to avoid any additional expense to his budget. Everyone does realize he runs the place "for profit", right?
Anyway it wasn't long before I found myself going nuts trying to keep up with everything. Yes, I was screwing up all over the place. Other employees complained to Mr. Smith, and he placed another employee in the position of "kennel manager".
It was a huge relief. I was then able to focus completely on the animals and caring for them.
still working on this, come back.
UPDATE: September 15, 2011: I have left this website unattended for several months due to health problems. If you want more information please contact me at resqtzu@aol.com.