Thoughts on Partnership
Vets learn about the biology of many animals who suffer from many ailments. They're trained in a broad knowledge base but it's impossible for them to have a specialized knowledge of every possible combination of things that could afflict the different animals they see in their practice. They also have limits on the time they can devote to researching complicated cases. A pet "owner" who has a kidney cat may not have the same formal education but many do have a deep intimate involvement with how this condition affects their own furchild. They've had months or years of continuous daily observation of one or more animals suffering from the disease, which gives the opportunity to learn things that a vet's general studies might not have covered in depth. Providing this personalized history to the doctor along with supplemental information you dig up through your own independent research can form the basis for a partnership in caring. It can be awkward to seemingly challenge a doctor of any kind whether human or vet. I find that it's helpful to always frame it as a request for understanding. "I've read that X could be going on. What can you tell me about that?" ... or "I was told that Z treatment could help. Is there any concern you have about trying that with my kitty? Would you be willing to try it with me?" You're showing respect for their broader general knowledge while asking them to help you understand instead of just advising you. For more ways to optimize relations with your vet, please read... |