The Mentor Advantage: How Guiding New Veterinarians Enriches Your Career

After graduation, stepping into the clinic they will work as a new, licensed veterinarian for the first time is a defining moment for any new doctor. New grads bring fresh knowledge and immense passion, but also a healthy dose of uncertainty. As a tenured veterinarian, you have the unique opportunity to guide them through this critical phase. While the advantages for the new graduate are clear, the benefits of veterinary mentorship for the mentor are just as profound and often overlooked.

Guiding a new professional is more than just a kind gesture; it’s a powerful investment in yourself, your practice, and the future of our shared community. This post explores the significant rewards you gain from mentoring new veterinarians, offers practical tips for building a strong connection, and outlines effective methods to make the experience fulfilling for everyone.

The Benefits of Mentoring

Taking on a mentorship role requires time and energy, but the return on that investment is immense. It enriches your professional life in ways that extend far beyond the day-to-day routine of appointments and procedures.

Reignite Your Passion and Rediscover Your ‘Why’

Remember the excitement you felt during your first year of practice? Mentoring allows you to see the profession through a new lens. A mentee’s curiosity and enthusiasm can be contagious, reminding you of the core reasons you chose this demanding yet rewarding career. Answering their questions and explaining your thought process helps you reconnect with your own passion for animal welfare and the science of medicine.

Sharpen Your Own Clinical and Communication Skills

One of the best ways to master a subject is to teach it. Explaining complex cases, surgical techniques, or client communication strategies forces you to organize your thoughts and articulate your knowledge with greater clarity. This process reinforces your own expertise and can even reveal new insights into your established methods. You might find yourself re-evaluating old habits and adopting more efficient, evidence-based approaches inspired by your mentee’s recent education.

Build a Stronger, More Cohesive Team

A clinic with a strong culture of veterinary mentorship is a healthier, more collaborative environment. When you invest in a new team member’s growth, you foster a sense of loyalty and mutual respect. This supportive atmosphere improves team morale, reduces turnover, and enhances overall clinic efficiency. A well-mentored new veterinarian quickly becomes a confident and capable colleague, sharing the caseload and contributing positively to the practice.

Become a Leader and Shape the Future

Mentoring is an act of leadership. By sharing your wisdom and experience, you are actively shaping the next generation of veterinarians. You have the chance to instill the values of compassion, ethics, and high-quality care that define our profession. This legacy of guidance is a powerful contribution that extends beyond your individual practice and helps uphold the standards of veterinary medicine for years to come.

Effective Mentoring Tips for Veterinarians

Successful mentorship is built on a foundation of trust, communication, and shared goals. Here are some practical tips to help you build a strong and supportive relationship with your mentee.

Set Clear Expectations from the Start

Begin the relationship with an open conversation. Discuss what the mentee hopes to gain and what you can realistically offer. Establish how often you will meet, the best ways to communicate (e.g., scheduled check-ins, quick questions via text), and the key areas of focus. This clarity prevents misunderstandings and ensures you are both working toward the same objectives.

Foster a Safe and Open Environment

Your mentee needs to feel safe asking questions, no matter how basic they may seem. Create a judgment-free zone where they can admit mistakes and voice uncertainties without fear of criticism. Share stories of your own early career challenges to show that learning is a lifelong process. This vulnerability builds trust and encourages honest communication, which is essential for growth.

Go Beyond Clinical Skills

While technical skills are crucial, a huge part of a veterinarian’s success lies in their “soft skills.” Offer guidance on client communication, managing emotional cases, handling finances, and achieving a healthy work-life balance. These are often the areas where new graduates feel least prepared. Sharing your experience in these domains provides immense value and helps them build a sustainable and fulfilling career.

Celebrate Wins and Provide Constructive Feedback

Acknowledge your mentee’s progress and celebrate their successes, big and small. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and motivation. When offering corrective feedback, be specific, gentle, and constructive. Focus on the behavior or action, not the person, and provide actionable steps for improvement. Frame it as a shared effort to find a better solution.

A Partnership in Growth

Mentoring new veterinarians is one of the most generous and rewarding acts an experienced professional can undertake. It is a two-way street where your guidance helps a new doctor flourish, and their fresh perspective helps you grow. By embracing the role of a mentor, you not only strengthen your own skills and renew your passion but also contribute to a more supportive and resilient veterinary community.

You have a wealth of knowledge to share. By offering it to a new graduate, you create a lasting impact on their career and find a deeper sense of purpose in your own.

Ever wondered what it means for a veterinary clinic to be “Fear Free Certified”? At CityVet, we know that trips to the vet can sometimes feel stressful for pets and their owners. That’s why our teams have taken the extra step to become Fear Free Certified, meaning we’re trained to make each step of your pet’s visit as calm, comfortable, and positive as possible.

Fear Free is more than just a program. It’s a philosophy that reduces fear, anxiety, and stress before, during, and after your pet’s visit. Here’s how it works:

Before the Visit

A Fear Free experience begins before you even step foot in the clinic. We provide tips tailored to both cats and dogs to help your pet arrive relaxed. This might include:

• Using calming pheromone sprays for carriers or bedding
• Playing soothing music during the car ride
• Bringing a favorite blanket, toy, or treat from home
• Scheduling appointments during quieter times of the day
• Some short-acting anti-anxiety medications

During the Visit

Once your pet arrives at CityVet, our Fear Free approach continues. Every interaction is designed to keep your pet engaged, calm, and comfortable. Some of the ways we do this include:

• Offering treats or toys to create positive associations
• Using gentle handling techniques and avoiding force
• Providing separate waiting areas or exam room protocols for cats and dogs
• Incorporating breaks if your pet needs a moment to relax

After the Visit

Care doesn’t stop once the appointment ends. Fear Free strategies also extend to the trip home and beyond. For example:

• Dogs may benefit from a walk or playtime after the appointment to burn off nervous energy
• Cats may need a quiet, familiar space to settle back in at home
• We’ll share tips and recommendations tailored to your pet’s unique needs so future visits become easier over time

Being Fear Free Certified means we’re committed to not only caring for your pet’s physical health, but also their emotional well-being. We want your pet to feel safe and happy when visiting us.

Ready to experience a Fear Free vet visit?

Book your next appointment at CityVet and see the difference it makes for you and your pet.

As the weather cools down and leaves start to change, many of us celebrate fall by refreshing our gardens, porches, and yards with seasonal plants. While autumn blooms and décor bring beauty to your home, it is important to remember that some popular fall plants can pose serious risks to your furry family members. Below are some of the most common fall plants to watch out for:

Chrysanthemums (Mums)

These classic fall flowers are everywhere this time of year. But while they brighten up patios and porches, mums are toxic to dogs and cats. If eaten, they can cause vomiting, drooling, and diarrhea.

Autumn Crocus

Beautiful but dangerous, the autumn crocus can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, kidney and liver damage, and even respiratory failure if ingested.

Oak Leaves & Acorns

Falling leaves and acorns may seem harmless, but they contain tannins that can upset a pet’s stomach. In larger amounts, acorns may cause more serious complications like obstructions that may require surgery.

Lilies

Especially dangerous for cat owners, even a small bite or lick of a lily can cause kidney failure in cats. If you bring these indoors as cut flowers, keep them well out of reach.

Pumpkins & Gourds

Pumpkins are generally safe in moderation, but moldy pumpkins or decorative gourds can upset your pet’s stomach. Always discard old or spoiled décor.

Tulips

While tulips are a favorite for fall planting, their bulbs can be especially harmful to pets who like to dig. Ingesting bulbs may cause drooling, nausea, and even heart issues.

What to Do if Your Pet Ingests a Toxic Plant

If you suspect your pet has eaten a toxic plant:

• Call your veterinarian immediately.
• Remove any remaining plant material from their mouth.
• Bring a photo or sample of the plant with you.
• Do not try home remedies unless instructed by your vet.

Safe Alternatives

Not all plants are off-limits. Pet-safe options like marigolds, snapdragons, and sunflowers can still give your yard that cozy fall feel without the risk.

Celebrate Fall Safely with Your Pets

Seasonal decorating and planting can be fun and safe as long as you’re mindful of what you bring into your home and yard. If you have any questions about toxic plants or your pet’s health this fall, the veterinarians at CityVet are here to help. Visit CityVet today to schedule an appointment or learn more.

Rabies is a serious and often fatal disease that affects both animals and humans. While it is preventable through vaccination, positive rabies cases have been on the rise in parts of the southern United States, including Texas and Oklahoma. Increased awareness and prevention are key to keeping both pets and people safe.

Rabies in the Southern U.S.

• According to recent surveillance data from the Oklahoma State Department of Health, rabies continues to be detected in multiple animal species across the region.
• While skunks, bats, foxes, and raccoons are common carriers, unvaccinated pets are also at risk of contracting rabies and transmitting it to others
• Cases in domestic animals highlight the importance of staying up to date on rabies vaccinations.
• Human exposure most often occurs through bites or scratches from rabid animals, making prevention essential.

How Rabies Spreads

• Rabies is transmitted through saliva, usually from bites or open wounds exposed to infected saliva.
• Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal.
• Prevention through vaccination and avoidance of wildlife is the best defense.

Rabies Prevention for Your Pets

• Keep dogs and cats current on rabies vaccinations as required by law.
• Do not allow pets to roam freely where they may encounter wild animals.
• Supervise pets when outdoors, especially at dawn or dusk when wildlife is most active.
• Report stray or suspicious animals to local authorities.
• Seek veterinary care immediately if your pet is bitten by another animal.
• Protecting pets through rabies vaccination is not only essential for their health but also for the safety of your family and community.

Visit your local CityVet for more information about rabies prevention, to update your pet’s vaccinations, or if you have any questions about keeping your pets safe.

As summer comes to an end and families settle back into school, work, and daily routines, it is the perfect time to check in on your pet’s health. Busy schedules often mean pet appointments get pushed aside, but staying on top of preventive care is one of the best ways to keep your furry family member healthy and happy.

Why Pet Appointments Matter

• Preventive care saves lives: Regular exams allow veterinarians to catch issues early before they become serious.
• Parasite prevention: Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention is especially important after summer travel and outdoor adventures.
• Dental health: Routine dental checks can prevent painful and costly problems down the line.
• Weight and nutrition checks: A healthy weight helps prevent long-term health issues like diabetes and joint pain.

Signs It’s Time to Schedule

• You can’t remember the last time your pet had a check-up.
• You noticed changes in appetite, energy, or bathroom habits.
• Your pet traveled with you over the summer or spent time in boarding or daycare.

Tips for Getting Back on Track

• Set reminders: Add preventive care to your family calendar so it doesn’t get overlooked.
• Pair with your routine: Schedule your pet’s appointments around back-to-school or seasonal family checkups to stay consistent.
• Plan ahead: Book appointments early before the holiday season gets busy again.

Now is the perfect time to get back on schedule with your pet’s preventive care. Visit CityVet to schedule an appointment and keep your pet happy, healthy, and ready for every season.

Labor Day weekend often means backyard barbecues, pool parties, and outdoor fun with friends and family. While it’s a time to celebrate the unofficial end of summer, it’s also important to remember that some of the festivities can pose risks to our pets. With a little planning, you can make sure your furry family members enjoy the holiday safely.

Food Safety Comes First

Barbecue favorites like ribs, hot dogs, corn on the cob, and desserts may be delicious to us, but they can be dangerous for pets. Bones can splinter, corn cobs can cause blockages, and sweets often contain toxic ingredients like chocolate or xylitol. If your pet is curious around the grill, keep a close eye on them and set aside a pet-friendly treat so they don’t feel left out.

Keep Alcohol and Drinks Out of Reach

Cocktails, beer, and even soda left on a low table can tempt a thirsty pup. Alcohol is toxic to pets, and carbonation or caffeine in sodas can upset their stomachs. Make it a rule to keep drinks in hands or on high surfaces only.

Protect Against Heat and Sun

Even as summer winds down, Labor Day weekends can still be hot. Make sure pets have access to fresh, cool water and plenty of shade. If your party is poolside, supervise pets around the water. Many dogs are natural swimmers, but not all, and they can tire quickly.

Fireworks and Loud Noises

Some neighborhoods celebrate with fireworks, which can be scary for pets. If you know your dog or cat is sensitive to loud sounds, set them up in a quiet, comfortable room inside with toys, soft music, or a calming aid.

Backyard Hazards

Be mindful of citronella candles, bug sprays, and lighter fluid, all of which can be harmful if ingested. Also check your yard for hazards like skewers or food scraps before letting pets roam after the party.

Celebrate Safely with Your Pets

Labor Day is about relaxing and enjoying time with loved ones, our pets included. By keeping these safety tips in mind, you can make sure the weekend is fun and stress-free for everyone.

If you have questions about safe treats, summer pet care, or your pet’s wellness, stop by your nearest CityVet location. Our team is here to help keep your pets happy, healthy, and ready to enjoy the holiday with you.

Mosquitoes, gnats, and ants are especially active in August, and pets are often easy targets. These bites can cause anything from mild skin irritation to allergic reactions and even disease transmission. Understanding the risks and knowing how to protect your pet can make all the difference during the warmer months.

Signs Your Pet has a Bug Bite

• Red, swollen, or irritated skin
• Excessive licking or scratching in one area
• Bumps, welts, or scabbing, especially around the belly, ears, or paws
• Limping or sensitivity when touched
• Swelling around the face, mouth, or eyes
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as vomiting, hives, or difficulty breathing

Caring for Bug Bites at Home

• Gently clean the area with mild soap and water
• Use a cold compress to help with swelling or itching
• Prevent scratching by keeping your pet distracted or using a cone if needed
• Do not apply human creams or ointments without checking with your vet
• Watch closely for signs of infection or allergic reaction

If your pet shows signs of pain, extreme swelling, or difficulty breathing, contact your veterinarian right away.

Tips to Prevent Bug Bites

• Keep your pet on a year-round heartworm preventative
• Use vet-approved flea and tick preventatives that also help repel mosquitoes
• Avoid walking near standing water, especially in the early morning or evening
• Keep grass cut short and remove any standing water from your yard
• Check your pet’s skin and coat after time outdoors
• Avoid areas with visible ant mounds or swarms of gnats

If your pet is dealing with bug bites, itching, or any skin irritation that does not improve, it is always a good idea to check in with your veterinarian. Even mild symptoms can sometimes point to a larger issue. Regular wellness visits also help catch and prevent seasonal concerns before they become more serious. Whether it is a bug bite, behavior change, or just something that feels off, CityVet is here to help.

As temperatures rise, so does the risk of heatstroke, and it is not just humans who are at risk. Dogs and cats are especially vulnerable to extreme heat, and this summer is already shaping up to be one of the hottest on record. With more than 265 million people across the U.S. facing heat above 90°F in the coming weeks, it is more important than ever to understand the dangers of heat and how to protect your pets.

Why Heat is More Dangerous than it Seems

Most pet parents know not to leave their pet in a parked car, but heatstroke can happen even in less obvious situations. It occurs when your pet’s body produces more heat than it can release. Normally, panting helps cool them down. But when the air is humid and heavy, panting becomes less effective, and their body can quickly overheat. Factors like humidity and dew point can increase the risk significantly. When the dew point rises above 70, the air becomes full of moisture, and it’s harder for both people and pets to cool down.

Who is Most at Risk

Some pets are more sensitive to heat and may need extra precautions. This includes:

• Pets with flat faces like Bulldogs and Pugs
• Older pets who cannot regulate their temperature as well
• Puppies and kittens who are still developing
• Pets with heart disease or other chronic conditions
• Overweight pets
• Pets with long or thick coat
• Outdoor pets or those who go on long walks during peak heat

Warning Signs of Heatstroke in Pets

Watch for heavy panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, glazed eyes, or confusion. If your pet is showing these symptoms, it is an emergency. Move them to a cool area, offer water, and call your veterinarian right away.

How to Prevent Heatstroke

• Walk your dog in the early morning or evening when temperatures are lower
• Provide plenty of fresh water and shade
• Never leave your pet in a car, even with the windows cracked
• Avoid long walks or strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day
• Use cooling mats, fans, or AC when possible
• Keep an eye on the daily heat risk level in your area using trusted tools like HeatRisk

Extreme heat can be dangerous, but with the right precautions, you can help your pet stay safe and comfortable all summer long.

Have questions or need advice tailored to your pet? Visit your nearest CityVet location today. Our team is here to help you navigate summer safely with your furry family members.

As temperatures rise, rattlesnakes become more active, emerging from their winter dens in search of food and warmth. In Arizona, rattlesnake season typically begins in March, making now the perfect time to brush up on safety tips for your home, family, and pets.

How to Keep Rattlesnakes Away from Your Home

• Clear Debris & Clutter: Rattlesnakes love hiding in tall grass, woodpiles, and brush. Keep your yard well-maintained and remove any unnecessary debris.
• Seal Entry Points: Check for gaps under doors, around pipes, and in foundation cracks. Sealing these openings can help keep snakes from slipping inside.
• Limit Rodent Activity: Snakes prey on small rodents, so reducing their food source can help deter them. Keep pet food stored securely, and address any rodent problems quickly.
• Use Snake Repellents: Natural deterrents like clove oil, cinnamon oil, or sulfur may help discourage snakes from settling near your home.
• Install Snake Fencing: If you live in a high-risk area, consider installing snake-proof fencing, which is designed to keep these reptiles out.

What to Do If You Encounter a Rattlesnake

Keep Your Distance: Rattlesnakes can strike up to half their body length, so stay at least six feet away.

Do Not Agitate the Snake: Back away slowly and give the snake space to move away on its own.

Warn Others: If you’re with others, especially children or pets, make sure they are aware of the snake’s presence and move to a safe distance.

Call a Professional: If the snake is in your yard or home, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Instead, contact a professional snake removal service.

What to Do If You or Your Pet Is Bitten

• Get to a Vet Immediately: Contact your nearest emergency vet clinic for treatment, which may include antivenom and supportive care. Also, ensure they have antivenom in stock, as it is not always readily available at many places.
• Limit Movement: Keep your pet as still as possible to slow the venom’s spread.
• Identify the Snake (If Safe to Do So): If possible, note the snake’s color and pattern to help veterinarians determine the best treatment.

Rattlesnakes are a natural part of Arizona’s ecosystem, but with awareness and preparedness, you can significantly reduce the risk of an unwanted encounter. Keep your property clear of hiding spots, educate yourself on snake behavior, and have a plan in place in case of a bite. If you ever need expert guidance on keeping your pets safe from wildlife dangers, CityVet is here to help. Stay safe this rattlesnake season!

The Fourth of July is a fun summer tradition, but it can be a stressful time for pets. From fireworks to food to unfamiliar guests, there are a few things to keep in mind to keep your pet safe and calm. Here’s how to plan ahead and what to do before, during, and after the celebration.

Before the Fourth: Prepare Early

• Make sure your pet’s ID tags are up to date and easy to read
• If your pet is microchipped, double-check that your contact info is current
• Set up a quiet, secure area in your home where your pet can relax
• Stock up on calming treats or talk to your vet about anxiety support if needed
• Remind guests not to feed your pet table scraps or alcohol

During the Fireworks and Festivities

• Keep pets indoors and away from loud noises
• Turn on the TV, fan, or calming music to help cover the fireworks sounds
• Supervise your pet if they need to go outside and keep them leashed
• Keep food, skewers, and trash secured and out of reach
• Watch doors and gates if you’re hosting to prevent escapes

After the Celebration

• Check the yard for leftover food, fireworks, or party items
• Watch for signs of stress like hiding, shaking, or loss of appetite
• Give your pet extra cuddles or quiet time to help them decompress
• If anything feels off, schedule a checkup to make sure they’re okay

If your pet struggles with loud noises or anxiety, our team can help you prepare. From supplements to behavior tips, we’ll help make sure you both enjoy the holiday weekend. Book a visit with the CityVet team today.