October’s Ode to RVTs
** Photo is featuring the FIRST RVTs that completed the Mobilizing RVT Program in November, 2021. What a line up of SuperTechs!
It is with such joy that I pen these thoughts about Registered Veterinary Technologists, about veterinary medicine and about the connectedness of the people inside this profession. October has been declared RVT Month and this year, 2023, I have seen more public acknowledgment of the roles and responsibilities that RVTs have; social media posts, fun RVT care kits, newsletters, shout outs at conferences, regulators and associations actively recognizing RVTs and so many veterinary practices and companies intentionally celebrating with their teams! THAT’s worth talking about!
I love this overall buzz that I see and feel as I make my way to industry events as well as see and follow so many organizations online. It’s inspiring to see the celebratory way that RVTs are being talked about and recognized. Not just ‘doers’ of tasks, but participants in the relationships between owners and their animals, between their teams, between veterinary practices and between themselves and the patients they are so dedicated to. This shows me a connectedness that is uniting our profession through celebration and recognition. RVTs have long been a source of direct patient care, often in the background, working tirelessly with all the risks and rewards that come with working with animals of any species. But what really impresses and inspires me these days, is how prominent RVT’s are in the relationships with owners and the leading and directing of team culture. We are showing up in ways that speak to the passion, the talents and most certainly the skills of these professionals. And it’s being broadcast across the country!
“ Veterinary Medicine, I’m proud of you!”
As a ‘vintage’ RVT, I have long valued the work we all do, every single one of us that dedicates the professional skills and attitudes for the betterment of animal welfare, no matter what title we have. It is inspiring when I see so many events, images and articles out there celebrating and showcasing the work and effort that goes into being on RVT and to being part of a profession that knows the value of connectedness. It also shows me how valued we all are, each of us, no matter the designation to the efforts of good patient care, positive reputation to the public and unparalleled dedication to the art and science of veterinary medicine.
When I think of connection, it means, ‘relationships’ to me and we have many within our profession; with our clients, with our teams, with our organizations, with our hobbies, with our families - it’s all connected. You see, we are really a people industry! What’s makes us different than any other profession, however, is that we also have the privilege of working and being connected to animals. Now there’s a relationship that knows no deceit, no falsehoods and no pretend - that’s what still inspires and ignites so many of us - the purity with which animals communicate with us - no words, just intent and unbiased behaviour. What a gift!
I’m 30+ years as an RVT and I can tell you, with truth and sincerity, I’m as excited today about veterinary medicine, about caring for animals and about being with people as I was 32 years ago when I entered the AHT Program at Fairview College. I hope you are too as there is much to celebrate, to rejoice in and to keep developing as we forge ahead with drive and determination.
Cheers to YOU, my fellow RVTs.
P.S. This photo was taken in November, 2021 and is the special group of RVTs that participated in the inaugural Mobilizing RVTs program!
Becky
