So internal medicine was a whirlwind. Most days were incredibly busy but it was really enjoyable, albeit time consuming and labor intensive. I learned a ton! I actually kind of miss it, but I've got to say I'm thoroughly enjoying myself on my exotics rotation. I just finished my first week, which was incredible! I have the amazing opportunity to work with THE Dr. James Carpenter (author of the exotics formulary and many other books and publications used by zoo veterinarians). We see client owned exotics (rabbits, guinea pigs, bearded dragons, birds, etc) and we work with the Sunset Zoo. I wish I could give all the details, but all I can say is that this one short week has reconfirmed over and over that this is what I want to do. I basically love everything about zoological medicine. I enjoy the team work between veterinarians, curators, keepers, etc, the organizational aspect of things, the excitement of learning about new species (sometimes even endangered or very rare), and the fact that there is still so much to explore through research. I JUST LOVE IT!
I have been debating whether or not I wanted to go the internship route, but I've officially decided that I will. So I'm planning to apply for not only exotic/zoo internships, but also small animal rotating internships. I believe that God will lead me to where I'm supposed to be, so whatever I get (if anything) will be what is meant for me! After that, I hope to go into a residency program and become board certified in zoological medicine. It would be fantastic to get lucky and land a job in a zoo immediately, but I'm willing to put in the effort and go through all of these steps to get where I want to be :) The great thing though is no matter what I'm still going to be a veterinarian in less than a year, and I'm going to be happy regardless of what I end up doing (with the exception of being a food animal vet...that's a nope)! I'm so excited to be where I am. I'm so LUCKY to be where I am. God is good :)
Oh, and did I mention the veterinarian I work with has a CLINIC NAMED AFTER HIM?! Kind of amazing!
