Sometimes being a veterinarian is tough. Whether it's difficult cases, frustrating client interactions, or just the culmination of it all, it can be a very dispiriting experience.

Today was not a totally successful day by any means, but there is an old-man cat of 18 years that I admitted for supportive care yesterday due to progression of his chronic renal insufficiency. The client is in the very sad position of having just lost his wife, and I was terrified that if my patient didn't respond well to treatment, that I would have to make the recommendation that saying goodbye may be the kindest option.

I was so relieved to not have to do that today.

Our old man has discovered his appetite again and has been brighter and more interactive. His renal values - while not perfect - are showing significant improvement. I am honestly ecstatic. When I relayed this information to the client, he said "I'm so happy. I'm just so freaking relieved!" and I had a bit of a cry after hanging up the phone.

I'm glad that sometimes I can help our patients to feel better and go home. I'm glad that level of compassion is still something I have, that it hasn't been leached from me entirely.

And it's nice to know that some days it's still good to be a veterinarian.