Scout went to the vet yesterday. He’s a homebody and doesn’t at all enjoy leaving the safe cocoon of his domain. He also hates car rides and going to the vet. To be clear, he enjoys how everyone gushes over him and rolling around on the cool stainless steel table is fun.

The needles, the ear medicine and the nail clippers are all things that those sweet people who scratch under his chin can stick where the sun don’t shine.

We arrived a little early and I had an errand to run. As I drove past the vet’s office, I glanced over in time to see something that broke my heart. An SUV with the back open. A metal cart. What appeared to be a large dog wrapped in a blanket. 

Someone had lost their beloved pet and friend. 

When I went back, the SUV was gone and it was business as usual. They were running behind and the mood in the office was subtly different then normal. More quiet. 

A vet tech took Scout from me. I don’t like this at all but they were far behind and he was there for things that a tech could easily do. There was no need to keep him under duress while we waited for a room just to make me more comfortable.

When I checked out, I asked the ladies at the front desk if they were having a good day. They were silent until one finally said sure and inquired about my day. 

It’s Veterinary Technician’s Week and the exchange reminded me of how difficult their jobs must be. I can’t imagine going to work every day not knowing if this is the day you’ll be read the riot act by a house panther who doesn’t want his ears cleaned or if this is the day you’ll help a family say goodbye to their furry baby.

If it bothers me to see from afar, it has to be gut wrenching to see up close every day. 

Scout’s back home safe and a little needy. He was also so happy to come home that he forgave easily. By the time we pulled in the driveway he had stopped singing the mournful cry of his people and quietly waited to be carried inside. 

He’s seventeen pounds now and a very solid, sleek house panther. He’s fortunately still young and healthy. Every time we go to the vet I am grateful when I get to bring him back home with a clean bill of health. 

People who say they’re just animals have never known the unconditional love and the incredible personality of a beloved pet. They are our best friends and like our children. 

There’s nothing like seeing someone else lose theirs to help put that into perspective.