Sunday, June 1, 2014

Copenhagen, Week 2!

Copenhagen was absolutely wonderful. Not only did I really enjoy the city itself, but I also enjoyed the people and the culture.  My days spent at Copenhagen Small Animal Hospital were some of the best shadowing experiences I have ever had. The staff was welcoming and even started pulling us in to help with cases on the first day. Whether or not they will ever know, the doctors at Copenhagen completely impacted the way I view veterinary medicine and my future role in the profession. I have always leaned strongly towards small animal but never could decide just exactly where or what that entailed.  I have dabbled in human society work, raptor rehabilitation, and even equine therapy for children with autistic spectrum disorder. Recently, with the help of my dad (who is a dentist and employed by the Army), I have been considering dentistry. After the encouragement and conversation I had with one particular doctor at Copenhagen Animal Hospital, Dr. Jacob Meyer, I am now seriously considering dentistry as a forerunner in my future career as a small animal practitioner. In fact, I am currently researching the possibilities and realize the incredible opportunities that could be available to me. Dr. Meyer really appreciated my interest and gave me a website to further research dentistry. He even sent me x-rays from Wednesday so that I had something to look at with my dad.

While at Copenhagen Animal Hospital, I was able to observe countless teeth extractions, numerous teeth resorptions, periodontal disease, and just how important an annual teeth cleaning actually is.  I was able to compare x-rays with real dogs and cats and compare normal and abnormal. The doctor gave perfect explanation of each disease and how each could be prevented or treated.

Additionally, not only did I LOVE our trip to Tivoli, but I also really enjoyed the group’s time together during dinner at Tivoli. It gave us time to really get to know each other and share stories about our personal experiences in veterinary medicine. Interestingly enough, differences and similarities were seen between countries and states.


Lastly, my time in Copenhagen, while enjoyable and educational, also taught me that I am extremely happy to be a veterinary student in American. Personally, I agree with the way our programs are arranged and ran, how scholarships are awarded to those who deserve them, and how our taxes are not 25%. Working for my education before, during, and after veterinary school has taught me to appreciate my journey, and I feel like I am a better person and student because of it.

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