Our October Spotlight Veterinarian is Dr. Patti Dressel. Dr. Dressel is a 2005 graduate of Colorado State University. She is an extremely popular small animal clinician in New Hampshire. You might say that she is the quintessential general practitioner. She will see almost any species, is competent in all aspects of medicine and her clients adore her as she truly possesses the gift of effective client communication.
Idiopathic Issues: What is your current position?
Patti Dressel: Associate Veterinarian, small animal practice
II: What does your job entail?
PD: A mixture of appointment, surgery, dentistry, client communication, and anything else you can think of.
II: What are the best things about your job?
PD: The variety of the patients I will see. I can be in one room with a rabbit or other small mammal, and I can hear a rooster crowing next door. I may see some dogs and cats, then a snake or bearded dragon. The variety is very exciting and interesting, I never know what will come in next.
II: What are some challenges you face in your position?
PD: Unfortunately, the financial aspect of diagnosing and treating patients is a daily challenge. On-line pharmacies also brings challenges. The internet also brings a unique challenge, but not necessarily in a bad way. Working with a more educated clientele can make client education easier. It can be challenging, as obviously clients are not necessarily reading all correct information, but it definitely keeps the job interesting.
II: What are some challenges you see for the veterinary profession?
PD: I think the biggest challenge is the number of students coming out of veterinary school, the number of available positions and the student debt of these new graduates.
II: What advice would you offer for someone who is interested in your area of interest?
PD: Find a good mentor! Find a high volume/high quality practice that sees the species that you are interested in. Jump in with both feet and see as much as you can see, especially early in your career. Ask questions and always say yes if you are given an opportunity (even if you may be a little nervous).
II: What are some of your hobbies outside of veterinary medicine?
PD: Spending time with my young children, enjoying the outdoors in New England and watching the Patriots win!
II: What is your dream species/project to work on?
PD: I am actually already doing it! I love what I do and I love learning something new all the time! There is never a dull moment when I am working.
II: How would you like to see technology affect veterinary medicine?
PD: I love the advances in technology that have already changed veterinary medicine. I hope that it continues to evolve over time.
II: What advice would you give to a veterinary student that you wish you had when you were a student?
PD: Your first practice is a very big decision. Make sure it appears to be the right fit for you. But, it doesn't have to be your forever job. Very few of my classmates are still at their first practice. Don't be afraid to leave if you are not happy.
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