Recently, an eight-year-old girl asked me why I became a veterinarian. She also wanted me to tell her my funniest poop stories… but that’s a whole other topic, so I’ll stick to the first one today!

Here are the three main reasons why I wanted to become a veterinarian. I believe they also explain why I’ve been successful both professionally and personally. Because after twelve years of practice, I still love my job. Whenever a young person is interested in becoming a companion animal veterinarian, I share my original motivations with them. It’s important to truly understand what you’re getting into before committing fully.

1) I love science

I love biology, math, and chemistry. I don’t love physics, but I still had to push myself to study it and earn good grades to reach my goals. Learning how the body works, how it can suffer from certain conditions, and how it can be repaired through medicine is incredibly fascinating. Modern medicine is amazing, and what we are able to do today as veterinarians leaves me in awe.

That said, it’s important to know that becoming a veterinarian requires a tremendous amount of studying. You must memorize many scientific concepts before being able to practice and help patients. Even after being accepted into veterinary school, you continue learning basic principles that initially seem far removed from the profession itself. But with determination, you get there—and it’s incredibly rewarding.

2) I love people

Veterinarians work closely with their colleagues and team members every day, but also with pet owners. I love building relationships with them and supporting them through both good and difficult times, using a professional and compassionate approach. I love watching their children grow up and come see me with their very first pet. The trust and bond that can develop are almost as incredible as the medicine we get to practice.

As a small animal veterinarian, I must never forget the person on the other side of the exam table or at the end of the leash. And the best way to help an animal is to work as a team with their human.

3) I love animals

This may seem obvious, but it deserves reflection. I love healthy, cute, friendly animals. I also love those with skin problems, kidney disease, or terrible breath. In fact, as a veterinarian, I am the voice of all animals. Since they can’t speak, I sometimes have to “translate” their needs so their families can better understand them. I also love and know animals well enough to help them—and their families—let go when the time comes.

The truth is, I don’t always see puppies and kittens just starting their lives. Watching my patients grow and change through every stage of their lives can bring many challenges. But it is truly rewarding.

In short, I love my profession. It’s a beautiful career with so many possibilities, but it requires perseverance and determination. That’s important to know. Once in the field, daily life is filled with wonderful stories, but also with challenges. All of these aspects of the veterinary profession are important to consider before choosing to practice veterinary medicine. As for me, I wouldn’t change careers for anything in the world. It fulfills me completely. I chose it for the right reasons and followed my heart. Working with animals and their humans is a daily joy.