The Human Companion Animal Bond

I never cease to marvel at the bond that forms between people and pets. And it forms so quickly….truly love at first sight. So it’s no wonder that when faced with obvious and serious congenital problems (birth defects) many of my clients choose to see their pets through extensive and expensive diagnostics and treatments to help them. Thankfully, many of the medical problems we see in newly acquired pets are not too serious. However, once and a while we do see a serious congenital heart defect or other organ problem that may impact the longevity of that pet and therefore how long he or she may actually be a family member. I’m in awe of the people who say, “I don’t care. We just want to keep him as healthy and happy as long as we can, even if only for a few short years”. This is only at the start of “the bond”. Wait until that bond has been set for a year or more. People will ask their veterinarian to move the earth, moon, sun and stars to do all possible to save their beloved pet. Sometimes, however, to a fault.