I started my young veterinary career in school, knowing, absolutely knowing that I was going to specialize in Equine Theriogenology – or breeding horses. I had taken a course in undergrad where we were assigned a group of mares and then were responsible for monitoring their estrus cycle via ultrasound and palpation and then deciding when and how to breed. We even had to collect the semen from the stallions, process it, and inseminate. I. LOVED. IT. I begged my teacher to be the teacher’s assistant the next year, I got to do it all over again. I love making babies! I spent every opportunity I could travelling to the best equine reproduction facilities in the US learning more, soaking up and loving every drop, every nuance, every manure covered rectal sleeve. Then, I applied for an equine theriogenology residency after my (terrible) internship and got rejected.
I spent that summer after my internship applying for jobs. I had only known large animals to this point and there were no large animal only jobs available that I could find. I knew nothing about small animal medicine other than vague lessons learned in vet school. It was two months later that a student of mine when I was an intern contacted me about the job in South Carolina – a mixed animal practice. It was the first time I would be treating dogs and cats. I had a ton to learn. Luckily, it was a very small practice and very slow with appointments so I was able to go to the back and research for almost every case to start. My boss was also mostly out on the road seeing dairies, so I was often left to my own decisions. Luckily, I had a wonderful tech who had been in the business a long time and was able to teach me most of my methods and help me along. I think it was a fantastic opportunity to really get to learn it down deep without the chaos of a busy practice.
Then, I got the job with Dr. Pol, moved up to Michigan in the middle of February 2014 in one of the harshest winters they’d recently had – we had stopped in Ohio to adjust something on top of the car and the wind was howling with 6 degree weather and Tony claims he was 2 seconds away from leaving me and driving back south. I was lucky enough to have already been in practice for 2.5 years before starting to work with Dr. Pol as it was constant chaos at his clinic. We were often quadruple booked every 15 minutes with only 2-3 doctors working. People waiting an hour to be seen was not uncommon. I had to learn to work fast.
When I first arrived and followed Dr. Pol around, I was absolutely impressed with the shear speed in which he saw patients. He would walk in a room and basically have a diagnosis before examining the animal. I figured that this was just from his years and years of experience and I had mountains to climb to catch up to his efficiency.
It was fun for awhile working as fast as I could, challenging myself to see the most cases every day. Then, slowly, my conscience caught up to me. Was I rushing through cases just to get them done and out? Was I really giving each client their due time and consideration? Was I offering everything I could to the client? I learned along the way that you have NO IDEA what a client is willing to do until it is offered. Dr. Pol’s clinic was in a very low income part of Michigan and you could probably count on 90% of the clients being strapped for money and wanting to try something easy first, but you could never tell which was that 10%. I saw one emergency, a dog that had gone acutely blind that day. I researched and read about it, told him (almost in passing) that the dog would need emergency surgery to save the vision. The man took his dog that day to see the specialist in Michigan, who then referred him to an even bigger specialist in Chicago, and the dog ended up having a $10,000 surgery and saved vision in one eye.
I had also gotten quite sloppy in my record keeping and if I planned on keeping my license for long, I knew I was going to have to be more deliberate with that. So, while at first I was swirled up in the fast pace craziness, I was cheapening my medicine, doing a sloppy job, and also, burning myself out. Working on numerous cases every 30 minutes, juggling multiple cases at once, sometimes even forgetting clients were in the room. It also seemed like the faster I saw cases, the more cases were booked for us to see, so it just kept piling and piling. Finally, after Tony had been working there awhile and saw how the practice was run, he’s the one that instructed me to put on the brakes. Dig my heels in and slow down.
I also joined a DVMoms group on facebook where I was able to air my grievances and get fantastic and supportive feedback. I slowed down, gave my clients more time, wrote complete records and started to restore my sanity. I felt like I could offer clients and their pets much better, quality, care in this way. I would make sure that EVERY client got offered EVERY option with treatment instead of guessing based on the client. I would be sure, though, to not make the client feel bad at all for not being able to afford the most ideal option.
One of the things I liked about working at Dr. Pol’s clinic was that we were able to offer therapies, treatments, and surgeries for much less cost than other vets around – this would eventually bring up the fact that we also didn’t pay staff well. I was able to perform C-sections on dogs and save their lives when the only other option was euthanasia because the surgery was too expensive somewhere else. Our practices were not necessarily the safest or the best, but we were able to give the owner an option other than putting their animal down. Other vets that charge more are able to offer more safety, quality, and options in their care and are able to provide their employees with better compensation. Selfishly, at the time, though, I enjoyed helping the people in need.
Eventually, the stress of working there with three small children, being on-call all the time, new vets coming and leaving just as fast, leaving the on-call duties spread between mostly 2-3 of us. Being on call for me was not a matter of if I got called in, it was how many times – with no extra compensation. I would spend my entire weekend I was on-call at the clinic – my phone rang the other day here in Virginia and Tony said he got that sinking feeling like I was about to have to leave. Six months later, he’s still suffering from “PTSD” – not seeing my children, getting home to have them all squeal with delight that I was home, then getting called back in 10 minutes later and watching them cry or even scream at the door as I left.
I was having more health problems, physically and mentally than I’ve ever had. Suicidal thoughts, even, despite medication. Finally, my therapist and the fine women on the DVMoms group pushed me to reach out and find a better job. I would take a huge hit with the salary, having Nat Geo paying me twice as much as my vet salary, but I had to escape the darkness. So, I found this job that I have now, small animal only. No on-call. Scheduled appointments for each doctor that are 30 minutes long. I feel like I get to have so much better of a relationship with the clients and hear their grievances and really talk to them and educate them about their pet’s health whereas before I would just be rushing them through their main complaint.
God pushed me to leave Dr. Pol. I prayed and prayed and prayed. I finally got my answer in a very odd, non-job-related way, but that story is for another day. I started my vet career with the intention to make lots and lots of baby horses, then I went to mixed animal, and I have currently reached a small animal only – the section of veterinary medicine I knew the least about when I started. I’m even working some shifts at a small animal emergency practice and I. AM. LOVING. IT.
I watch a lot of Nat Geo and Animal Planet shows and I am gratified to have my suspicions confirmed. I thought I was being too sensitive because I was ignorant about how much care the farmer actually gives. I can’t claim to know anybody, based on a TV show, but the whole premise seemed to be Charles trying to get his Dad’s approval. Social media is a terrible place to make judgements, but there it is. I would understand if I was blocked because I caused offense to your friends.
We all agree with you, Melinda.
I agree Melinda ☹️
Sorry to read that your time with dr Pol was not a happy one. I did not like the way you talked about the practise, as if the clients did not get the time and help they needed. And talking about the way he did not pay his staff enough. You yourself told get payed twice by Nat Geo , but working there was why you did get that.
I feel sorry that your last blog was like a big complain about your time there. I hope you and the Pol family are still on speaking terms and that they know that you tell your readers those things about your time there. For me as viewer it looked like you and dr Pol had a close band together. I hope that you did spoke about all the things that you did write and what bothered you about working there, with dr Pol, at some time in private.
Scroll on if you don’t like it. It’s her opinion and she has the right to have it. It’s her take on her experience. SHE WAS THERE living it every day, not just a fly on the wall (or a viewer in front of their TV).
She has the right to her opinion, as do all of her readers (even you). Enilys insights were not very surprising to me, but she is speaking from a poi t of view no viewer has. I’m glad she has taken that experience and found another wonderful chapter in her life.
Nancy,
I think you missed the part where she mentions that her mental health was suffering! Good to know where your priorities are.
I had guessed she left due to low wages. Take a look at the turn over. There’s always a reason for a high turn over and 99% of the time its low wages. Charles lacks nothing, driving around in his nice fancy car never really having a job, and yet the ones that do all the hard work are put on the back burner. Good for you Dr Emily for making a life change. I love the show but everyone is entitled to get paid according to the job they are doing.
I love Dr. Emily and understand her reasons for leaving. To be fair, she was getting paid by Nat Geo as well as her regular salary.
I don’t think it’s fair to talk badly about Charles. He may get paid more by Nat Geo but his job is in a different capacity than Dr. Emily’s was. He is the one that came up with the idea for the show, is also a producer for the show and probably also gets paid for being in the show. He also worked for a studio in California before doing this. They do show repeats and the show on different channels and actors get paid so much for that also. It’s not fair to blame Charles. I also think it’s great he and his dad’s relationship has grown through this, that is a blessing no one should spit dirt on.
I’m not condoning the way things are run or what Dr. Emily went through. I do think they ALL work hard and I love this show and the people in it.
Exactly !!!
You should not judge her for doing what is right for her sanity and her family. Veterinarians have one of the highest suicide rates of any profession. She should be commended for seeking a sane environment.
Anyone with a brain can see how chaotic and hectic all of the vet’s lives are on Dr Pol. I, and I assume most others made the assumption that they had reasonable, uninterrupted time off and were compensated well for putting in extra hours. That turns out to not be the case!
She has every right to do what is best for her but didn’t she learn anything from Dr. Pol and/or Dr. Brenda that she could have expressed gratitude for? Just because her experience wasn’t a good one doesn’t make Dr. Pol or the practice bad.
I’m guessing that we will see a blog about that eventually; this seems fairly new.
Thank you so much for sharing your story!
In a field previously run by men…, it takes immense courage to speak your truth. Thank you dr! In a busy practice it’s all too easy to lose sight of our gifts as women. Intuition, compassion and empathy do not present themselves fully when rushing from room to room every 15 minutes.
You are so brave to share your truth! People that can not see this are ignorant. Judgements from viewers should be withheld until they themselves work in the busy veterinary field.
Much love and support for honoring your mental health, from one DVMom to another!
One can never give from an empty cup.
Thank You for sharing. So glad you did Vet Medicine on your terms at the end on Dr Pol.
I am a Human Physicisn. We get pushed just as hard. I decided I was going to give every patient the time they need, even it meant coming in at 3am to chart (that is when the Internstional chart system worked the fastest and I wasn’t distracted.
Don’t let the “shamers” get you down. That person has NO (lacking the education and walking a mile in your shoes experience) idea what is really going on. Ignore any ‘advice’ you don’t think is helpful and ‘fits’.
Thanks for sharing, you are helping more people than you know. With the Vet suicide rate being so high, you are saving lives, teaching other Vets how to get control and happiness in their life again.
Dr Jeanie MD
I miss Dr. Emily too, she was the best part of the show. But the job was making her miserable, and she is happier and healthier now, can’t you just be happy for her? Dr. Pol has a lot of turnover, and the high volume and stress makes it hard for all the employees. Sometimes a job is not a good fit, and you need to move on. I was wondering how she and the other people on the show are doing and am very glad to read her blog. She is not trash talking Dr. Pol, she is speaking from her heart about her values. Family comes first, not your job.
If you don’t take care of yourself, you have nothing left to offer anyone, family, job, social life. My uncle was a vet and I grew up working for him. Large and small animals and any exotic that came through the door. One of his sons became a vet and committed suicide in his forties. I read recently suicide rates among veterinarians are among the highest in any profession. If you have no experience w pets or farms and watch any veterinary show, you see the emotional toll of helping people with an often beloved, family member who, even in best of circumstances will die well before the human. Add on everything written in this blog about finances etc. its high pressure.
You never know how a place is until you work there. I learned that through my own experiences. No place is perfect. You have to be brave and keep looking and try new things. I’m glad you and your husband worked at Pol clinic together (rebel 😊) and I am happy you have followed your heart. I turned to a different path than veterinary medicine, author, but animals are a frequent topic in my books and in several instances I set up that profits from book sales benefit an animal related charity such as Semper K9 and CNY Cat Coalition.
WOW, so shocked to read that someone (ANYONE), would have the audacity to leave any sort of unkind criticism on YOUR BLOG!!! Apparently, some are not quite understanding exactly what a “personal blog” is…..
Well I would just like to say THANK YOU EMILY, for not only taking the time out of your very busy life of being a doctor of veterinary medicine, wife, mother, friend, (and certainly not in that exact order), but, ALSO for somehow finding the extra time, to sit down and share some of your stories with the VERY MANY people who have come to love & care about you, and your family!
I enjoy, and greatly appreciate the opportunity to be able to read about anything & EVERYTHING you might happen to write about, and I am grateful to your hubby Tony for helping in the proofreads, and running, or helping in the running of the blogs website!
PLEASE KEEP UP THE GREAT STORY TELLING! And know that most people are very THANKFUL, NOT overly critical & judgementally rude! XOXO.
People like you are the reason so many suicides are successful! Once you’ve walked in her shoes for just 1 ten hour day then, and only then can you pass judgement on her or anyone else that lived what she did for so many years! Truthfully I’m really surprised she lasted as long as she did! Have you not ever noticed how utterly exhausted every single person in that office looks? Well I suggest the next time you watch you take a good hard look. The only one not completely exhausted yet is Dr Nicole, and that’s only because she’s still too new. So may I suggest you go get yourself some education, in the veterinarian field and including in grammar, spelling and punctuation, then come back And lecture this wonderful, kind, big hearted Dr!
I agree with you Nancy. No ax to grind with Dr Emily but 2 things seem unclear – the contradiction about not getting paid but the getting double paid as well was there any attempt to modify or address the situation. I agree mental and physical illness are nothing to laugh about but sometimes things need addressed to get worked out. I want there not is it m business but the timing and delivery of this all seems very calculated .
Thanks for your comment. You are one of the few people who really understand what I was pointing out. All those haters here reacting on my comment did not get that point.
My understanding was that Emily was not getting properly compensated for overtime and after hours on-call duty. Payment for O/T should not come from Nat Geo but from the practice. For all we know, some conversations may have been held with Dr. Pol and others. At any rate, I find it easy to imagine any vet with three children could get burned out at the pace of this clinic’s work, with such a variety of large and small animals. I find Emily to be refreshingly honest about her quandary and the need to take care of herself.
Dr Pol has stated on the show that they quadruple book every 15 minutes
I think every viewer that heard that knows it’s too many clients to receive an in-depth appointment
I love your heart Dr Emily ❤️
Yes! I agree completely!
Thanks for your insight. I can understand completely. Glad you found something satisfying. All the best to you and your family.
Thank you for being so open and sharing things about this profession that the general public and “viewers” do not know. This job is demanding and draining and so emotional, yet we never are allowed to show or speak about our struggles. You are so brave to have shared these thoughts and done what was best for your family and your mental health. From one DVMom to another, thank you!
Thank you for sharing. Hope you reach your long time goals
Bless you Dr. Emily!
I could see your young lovely face grow dimmer each season. I am glad to see that you took care of yourself and your family and made changes.
I wish you and your family nothing but the best.
Take care!
I’m glad you found something that better fits your lifestyle. I know how that goes. For the past ten years I have been working a job far outside of my field of study making half what I used to make, and I’ve never been happier. Sometimes you have to make that change to save your sanity!
Great post, Glad you are in a more suitable setup now. Big life changes and mental health seem to affect nearly all of us at some stage. I hope the blog is a success for you.
thanks Emily and Tony.
I’m so glad you were able to find a better work-life balance as well as a place where you can really serve your patients and clients. Best wishes!
Wow it is very powerful to see the truth in your words. Thank you so much for sharing your heart.
We’re all so proud of you for taking care of yourself and your family!
I was sad to read that your time with PVS was not as pleasant as it was portrayed on NatGeo. I understand why Dr. Brenda stays single. Glad you have found something that makes you happier, career wise. I’ll miss watching you every Saturday but will enjoy your blogs as well as any updates on the kids! Loved watching your pregnancies progress and the kids grow!
I am thoroughly enjoying your blog. Your sense of humor is so relatable for me and you have a great knack for telling a story. Although I will miss seeing you on Nat Geo, no one should blame you for making the best decision for you and your family.
Thank you Emily. I’m sure it was difficult to write that. You are kind, committed, and young. You HAVE to follow your inner voice. So glad your hubby helped you decide to live more of life. By the way, I LOVE your house back in Michigan. Be blessed and happy.
Good for you. It is amazing where life takes us and I am sure you learned from the experience. I was referred by a wonderful vet and mentor to my first out of school job. I was told that he was very different and I would ‘learn the business of veterinary medicine’. It took 3 years for me to understand what the meant and gather the gumption to get out. I for one am proud of you for being able to make the jump into Unknown, to stand up for yourself and your family, to decide that there may be a better way to practice, and to be able to openly discuss it. So many people don’t understand and never will. I am sure you will get comments that will cause those of us ‘in the know’ to get riled up and feel the need to defend you. Remember, you made the right choices, and you are here. 🙂
Well said. Speaking up, finding help, living your life the way you need/want is anyone’s right. Their life. Maybe all the suicides, depression, etc in that field is caused by people Not living their best life and Not venting or seeking help. Dr. E is correct to take a stand, for herself and her family. I so hope she is relieved and she and her family are reaping the benefits of living an authentic life !!!
Love your blog! My children are grown now and my daughter is a veterinary technician here in town. She loves her job but has complained about some familiar items you cover, especially her doctor/boss unwillingness to say “no” and completely overbooking for the day, causing major backups in the waiting room, rushed service and long days before being able to close. I can imagine tossing in young children at home and miles of open frozen roads in between calls would cause you to question your choices. I’m very happy you’ve come to a decision that makes you and your young family happy. THAT is the most important decision of all. Ultimately my wife left me after over 20 years due to my career choices and my own depression and unhappiness. If I could do it over again I would’ve seen my depression was making everyone in my family hurt. I applaud you for praying and moving toward that happiness 🙂
Me alegra que seas honesta, cuando veía el programa me imaginé que era agotador para ti estar de guardia siempre y más con una familia, poco a poco te desgastas tanto física como psicológicamente y al final no eres feliz.
Te entiendo muy bien, algo similar me paso.
I admire you a lot, you are really amazing..
Emily, your “realness” is what made everyone fall in love with you on the show. Love, that it continues on in your blog! Stay strong, adventitious, and brave. Go after your dreams! One day you don’t want to say I wish…
Bottom line is that you did what was right for you and your family….you have to be selfish sometimes and think of your health and well-being. Self care is the best care. I hope eveything wasn’t as bad as your blog says and I hope your mental health has improved since you left Dr. Pol’s practice…..I also hope you are on good terms with Dr. Pol and the others. I’m just happy to be able to follow you on your life’s journey. Thank you for sharing.
Just from viewing the show it is obvious that the practice is high stress. The market that PVS serves reflects the type of service they provide. Not the practice for a young person starting a family but good experience for the short term. Since the shows beginning turnover seemed to be a problem especially regarding call. Hope you and your family are happy and are able to enjoy ife.
You will be missed but your health and family are more important God Bless you for all you do and good luck on the new Adventures
I recently started to watch The Incredible Dr Pol when it was featured as the holiday marathon of episodes. I was very taken by the show, and had my share of binge watching over the Christmas/New Years week. I was so disappointed to hear you were leaving the practice, because your exuded qualities of intelligence, tenacity, skill level and personality were such a draw to the show – I literally felt a sense of loss learning of your impending absence. Seeing your following re your blogs and reading the many comments convinces me that I’m not alone in my appreciation of your talents.
Having said that, I wondered how you were balancing all the many responsibilities in your life, as I viewed the episodes. I knew you probably felt pulled in different directions, and God knows, that would challenge anyone. Your awareness, priorities, and concomitant evolution in your vocation as a wife, mother, and doctor surely reflect the spiritual growth that shines through you like a beacon of light to all of your fans. To chose family and working in fairness and integrity over money and fame is courageous, virtuous, and rubber stamps your inherent goodness. Nothing is perfect in any job, and nobody is perfect, but to be true to yourself usually maximizes chances of success in all areas of life. The emphasis on sustaining a volume practice, the inevitable shift of focus to satisfying the needs of reality tv show, and the enhanced ego of being a television star had to have taken a toll on all involved.
Good for you to have listened to your more objective husband who had your and the family’s best interests at heart with his sage advice. God bless and good luck to you in your newest adventures. Your blogs are just another way you continue to touch the hearts of many. Well done.
❤️
Well said and beautifully written. Thank you for sharing.
You’re proving that you a lot smarter than just being a terrific vet.
Of course I’ll miss seeing you on tv, but it makes me happy to know that you and Tony, and kids, are in a much better place.
I do look forward to reading your blogs. Have a great 2020.
Buzz👍🤠
Emily, your “realness” is what made everyone fall in love with you on the show. Love, that it continues on in your blog! Stay strong, adventurous, and brave. Go after your dreams! One day you don’t want to say I wish…
Can’t wait to read more! Thank you
It takes a lot of guts to step away from such a public role knowing and being open with why knowing that people are going to give their opinion of your decision based solely on what made the cut for TV. For every one hour the viewer sees of an episode, I’m sure there are hundreds of hours that didn’t make the cut. It’s amazing the emotional ties one can develop based off a “reality” show that can be edited to look like most anything the producer wants.
I give you a big high five for being brave enough to put your family and mental health first, for realizing what was negatively affecting your life and removing yours from that position. What an excellent role model for your kids, young women and mommas everywhere.
Congratulations!!
I love this – and you! – baby daughter. 💜
So happy you were able to find balance in your life. Stay strong for your family and friends and Happy New Year!
Another great story!
Thanks for this project. We have been fans of the show, and of you and Brenda in particular. First off, over the years, many of us have had jobs we started out loving and put our all into. Gradually though, the job can end up “owning” us. Time to make a change. You are not alone in your experience. No one’s fault. It just is not a good fit anymore. Good for you. Being a vet can be challenging for a lot of reasons, as well. My own vet is currently reassessing her practice, and we support her in that. You still vet animals, you are still learning, you have more balance in your life, your health is restored and here you are, cranking out a blog! Woo hoo! You have learned a lot and grown a lot. You are a good writer, too. Who knew, right? Thanks for sharing. Hi to Tony and the kids! So glad I subscribed!
Dr Emily
So proud of you for putting yourself first and making the difficult decision to leave Dr Pol. We miss seeing you on the show but your happiness and your family’s happiness is much more important. God Bless!
I think it’s good you showed us the realistic site of the job, we only see the romantic on TV. I admire your honesty.
I love to read your posts. Give my love to Tony and the kids.
You are brave enough to be forthright about your decision to leave Dr. Pol, and that says alot about your character. This IS your blog, and you have every right to give your account of your life experiences.
I really enjoy watching Dr. Pol. I miss you on the show, but now I understand why you have left.
He is ‘get up and go’ and always says that about himself, he needs to always be busy; he can barely relax on his day off.
But, not everyone is cut from the same cloth. I can see how being overbooked, day in and out would be exhausting.
I am happy for you, Tony and your kids that you’ll be having more quality time together. That IS the most important thing in the world. Family time. Those little ones grow up at the speed of light and you will never regret your decision to make more time with them!
Bless you. I hope you are happy now.
Emily, your quality of character continues to shine brightly! This, to this fan anyway is the one big reason we love you. I am proud of the choices you make and the honest reasons for them 🙂
Quality people in our lives are few and far between, it seems and I try to keep a connection when I find then crossing my path! Glad you chose sanity and quality of life! Keep up the good work .
Oh Dr. Emily, I am so thrilled in my spirit that you have this blog! Naturally we all fell in love with the person that you are and God richly bless you for listening to Him directing you! Love your artwork as well, especially one that has an elk with antlers that become branches reaching up to God’s heaven (you said that you were inspired to paint it while praying) I too hope one day you will be in horse business end of your career as you are a natural! There is one schnauzer that always had watched everything you did with horses until you were done, then he would look at me as if he approved! Blessings to your family and keep trusting in God!
Good for you. Do you think you would ever go back to working with large animals? You looked like you enjoyed it.
Oh wow!! We knew they were busy but obviously had no clue!! We absolutely hate to see you go but thrilled you’re in a great place now mentality, physically & emotionally! Give those sweet babies hugs & kisses for us! Oh & tell Tony thank you for not leaving & going straight back to the South 😂 I live in Louisiana & seeing the winters up north is a big HECK NO!
Bless you for being so honest of your time at Dr. Pol. I can see why you got so burnt out. Keeping those crazy hours and trying to raise a family at the same time. So glad to know you are happy and doing much better 😊
It took great courage to do what was best for your family Emily. In life we all go through “rough patches”, and you handled yours with great poise. The smiles on your face and Tony’s that we see now shine like a rainbow at the end of a storm. Enjoy Virginia !
There is no question you did the right thing. Your health and family must always come first. To late in life too many people finally figure this out. This move has saved your health, marriage and your kids have a mother back. Never look back and keep pressing forward. Hats off to you.
Happy for you that you have found a better life for you and your family. It isn’t always about the money, but what is best for your health and family.
There is no question you did the right thing. Your health and family must always come first. To late in life too many people finally figure this out. This move has saved your health, marriage and your kids have a mother back. Never look back and keep pressing forward.
I just love your openness, Dr Emily. I loved seeing you on Nat Geo and now I look forward to your blogs.
I am so happy to see that you are taking care of you and your health and your family now.
Another amazing story. I totally understand why you had to make the decision to leave. I’m still hoping NetGeo will give you your own show. The ER clinic might be perfect. I can always hope. 😬
Dr. Emily,
I am loving your blog. Thank you for taking the time to share your light with us.
There is a place in this world for all of us and I am happy to hear that you are finding yours.
I admire your integrity. I admire that your family and health care first. Fame and fortune does not equal happiness. You are a strong Southern woman. The best is yet to come. Keep on writing. I enjoy keeping up with you and your family.
Thanks for the explanation. It was obvious that Dr Pol’s practice was chaotic, to say the least. So glad you got to work with him and learn from all your experiences, but we often worried that you were going to be killed while handling some of the animals. Enjoy your new-found calm, your kids, and Tony while still doing a job you love.
My name is not Kinda. I hit that stupid K all the time. Most often I notice it and fix it. Missed this one. Still glad you made your move and saved your life. Others will continue to work in Michigan and will save lives there. You needed to save your own, so your choice was a good one. Best wishes to you and your family.
I get doing what’s right for you and your family, and good for you but am I the only one who thinks it’s extremely crappy that you leave Dr. Pol and start to blast his practice in your blog? It’s clear to me that Dr. Pol’s number one concern is the animals. It’s his love for the animals and his work ethic that makes his practice so chaotically popular. You keep mentioning God and prayer and all of that. I hope you’re prayerfully considering what your blasting has potential to do to Dr. Pol and his family.
That was what I was saying too. Good to make choices for your family, but no reason to talk that way about a practise who does good work for his clients. After having 1 kid it must have been clear that combining a family and working in such busy practise would be a challenge. I myself gave up my career to care for my very ill mother. You could have left at any moment , but you stayed,. So don’t talk bad about the practise, and the people, and the show you did choose to stay in, and got payed for so long.
Nancy,
I agree with you. While it’s great Dr. Emily did what was best for her mental well being. It’s not kind or caring to talk bad about Dr. Pol and his practice. All it can do is hurt him & his family.
Exactly !!! No need for that.
You have no right criticizing her. Have you ever seen how a typical veterinary practice works? Did you ever stop to wonder why Dr Pol has such a high turnover of staff and veterinarians? Dr Emily is not degrading Dr Pol in any way by discussing her reasons for leaving. She clearly left on good terms and praises Dr Pol. Apparently many before her have felt the same way!
I love Dr Pol as a person and think he is a wonderful , caring man but I cringe at the unsanitary , unsterile manner in which he treats his patients. He has been sanctioned by the state of Michigan more than once. The office is a mess, their house is a mess and their cars are a mess. Maybe Dr Emily got tired of the chaos?
You went too far in saying their house, cars, etc are a “mess”. That is not the issue . It’s not the issue.
Exactly a blog is a good idea, but no need to bad mouth dr Pol and his family and practise and life.. She could have left at any moment , but did not. I like the blog, but keep it personal. I thought higher of you than badmouthing The practise and people where you worked so long
Actually I didn’t go too far in saying things are a mess. Firstly, I want to say how much I admire Dr Pol and the crew. They obviously have a huge heart for animals and I love them for it. While I absolutely love Dr Pol, Diane, Dr Brenda and the others, I find the state of their office and Veterinary practice to be chaotic and downright dirty. They are the ones who choose to invite cameras into their home therefore it is fair game for criticism. I am embarrassed for them. If that is what it looks like when cameras are there, just imagine how bad it is when they aren’t!
I have veterinarian friends who are literally appalled that they are allowed to remain in business with the number of obvious code violations. Did you see the episode where he removed a dogs eye without wearing a mask? The only one who ever wears appropriate operation gear is Dr Emily. There is a reason new veterinarians leave his practice so quickly. Unhygienic business practice is likely one of those reasons. To me it is embarrassing that his show is viewed worldwide and many likely think that this is a typical veterinary practice in America. I assure you it is not.
Emily Thomas,
I completely agree. I was thinking the same thing. Dr. Pol is such a caring man who works so hard. Blasting him & his practice does not seem like the kind thing to do. While it’s great Dr. Emily is happy where she is at now. What purpose does it serve to bad mouth Dr. Pol & his practice.
I don’t see where Dr.Pol has been “blasted”? I think Dr. Thomas has been careful to not say anything derogatory about him as a person or as a DVM. But then we all see “what we want to see and disregard the rest”.
I also agree with you on this.In her own words she states she knew nothing about taking care of small animals. And she also knew of the high traffic that Dr Pol’s office had.But she needed a job. She also states she told Diane Pol she wanted to have kids. I can’t understand her thoughts of what was going to happen, Should have seen it coming. As a vet tech myself I get the underpay for sure. But it is something I love. Our vet quit working large animal. I’m very happy for Dr Emily to find this kind of work wasn’t for her. But think she stayed to long,Maybe because looking for another job was as hard as getting the one with Dr Pol. Seeing her face everytime she had to put an animal down, I think drained her.
Dr E is the expert on this, not viewers who only see some of what goes on. I admire and like Dr Pol, but not everyone wants to work that frantically. He doesn’t have small children at home either. I’m thinking Dr Pol is more “settled” in his life, and financially secure, so less pressure. Work is such a large part of our lives, and it should be enjoyable, fulfilling , and financially secure. I understand that you care for Dr Pol, the show, etc, but NO one is perfect. I so hope Dr Pol understands the issues, and IF workers are in need, he tries to adjust the clinic. Change can be freeing.
My opinion too. She seems to be bashing them without actually saying it.
I am so happy for you, Tony and your kids! You made the right decision in leaving and finding a situation that lets you be the veterinarian you are meant to be. People don’t understand the depression and anxiety of veterinarians in general. It is becoming a national crisis.
I am sad that I won’t be seeing you on Dr Pol but I have high hopes that NatGeo will give you your own show. You are such an attractive, intelligent and caring person with an engaging personality that would be perfect for a TV show.
One thing about Dr Pol’s show that bothers me is the lack of cleanliness and hygienic principals when caring for patients. No doubt he is a nice and caring man but the office appears chaotic and messy.
Love your blog!
I think you made the right decision to choose for yourself and your family.
I made the same decision 4 year’s ago.
I was bullied and harassed at work for six years.
My husband said stop that work you go under it yourself this way.
After being bullied and harassed for six years, I chose for myself and resigned.
Otherwise I would not have been here now, I think.
My husband and I loved you on Dr Pol but we are so happy you are enjoying where you are at. We will miss seeing you on the show. My husband was a dairy farmer and then later raised beef cattle. He was very impressed with your skills. Be happy and God bless you and your family.
You are my favorite vet. I will miss you. But u made a smart decision for your family. As the kids grow up to fast. I wish you much success and ha.ppiness.
I think everyone needs to remember that everything you see on TV is not always rainbows and butterflies. You are seeing snippets of a long hard day of work. In some cases, you can see the exhaustion that results from working that case, but there may have been 10 more like that the same day. Sure, you may have been on a TV show and sure, may have been making pretty good money, but sometimes that doesn’t make everything beautiful and perfect. And anyone who would criticize about you telling your truths are just living in TV la-la land. So Emily, I hope you see from mostly all of the comments, that you have understanding, support and admiration. And you can tell from your mother’s comment, that she feels the same way and is so very very proud of you. You have shown that your children, your husband, your family and YOURSELF are far more important than money and fame. Kudos to you Emily for standing up for yourself!!
It’s interesting to read about your experience at Dr. Pol’s office. It sounds like he runs the business at a crazy pace. I think some of it may be generational as my parents owned a business and worked tremendous hours each week, weekends, nights, whatever was needed. We would ride on calls with dad when we were small, but he was also gone a lot. You are in a demanding, highly skilled career, but it’s exciting to hear that you are learning how to make that work with small children in the home. My choice was to learn a career I knew I could do part-time from home while the kids were little. The family business was too much work! We all love Dr. Pol and my daughter dressed up as you for Halloween in 2018. It’s wonderful to be able to tell her, while there will be sacrifices made, she could be a veterinarian and also have a decent schedule and family life. Best wishes!
You are a strong, committed woman to your family and to your furry clients, 4 and 2 legged (sometimes 3 legged😉). I wish you the very best in whatever direction you take. Loved you on TADP but I always wondered how on earth any of you had a work/life balance with the fast pace of that practice. I truly hope you are happy and at peace with your choice. You should be. It wasn’t an easy one to make I’m sure. Keep on blogging. I love reading about your daily ups and downs…your hubbys take on life…and those amazingly goofy and beautiful kids. Peace in the new year Dr. Emily…..the world is a better place with you.
Well said.
So glad that you found your “happy” again.
I hope you now realize how loved you and your family are by thousands of total strangers!! You are where you’re meant to be💜
So many have written such beautiful words and sentiments to you 💜. Please “hear” them as your mental and physical health, children and marriage are the most important elements.
I love your blog, your humor, your being real. Thank you for being you.
Yes, take the heartfelt sentiments “in” and know you are so well thought of and cared about. I hope more Vets learn from some of your lessons, advice, etc so they do not suffer in their demanding job. Good on you !
Hi Emily, very much enjoying your posts. Take care of you, and Tony and your family.
Oh, Dr. Emily, I can completely relate! I am so thankful you allowed God to plot your course and follow his lead. He created us to thrive, not just survive. Depression is an awful thing. I saw your light dim as the seasons progressed. My heart is so happy that you’ve got your sparkle again!
Dr. Emily I am going to miss seeing you on the show. You were and still are one of my favorite vets. I wish you well on your new job and city you are now residing. I live in Virginia also, about 10 minutes away from
Shenandoah Valley. Hopefully you get the opportunity again to be on tv and continue to show your love for ALL animals. Take care
I just saw something and thought of you…
“You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem , smarter than you think and loved more than you know” – A.A. Milne, Author and Poet 1882-1956
Thank you for being vulnerable, and sharing your heart, Emily. It is sometimes so easy to forget that television is not reality, no matter what the title of the show proclaims. Real people are in those roles, and they have the same emotions, needs, and vulnerabilities as the rest of us.
I am proud of you, for moving on for YOUR health, and the health of your little family. Listening for God’s voice is sometimes difficult, and following His will is sometimes even moreso. You will be in my prayers for continued discernment, and peace. God bless you and your family, Emily!
I am so glad you found a place that lets you be mom to your wonderful children and lets you be the vet you want to be. Thank you again for sharing a little of your interesting life. May God always bless and protect you, Tony and the kids. Love and prayers from Canada.
You worked your butt off there, I always thought there were short cuts & lack of time for clients.. I understand why it be too much for you & your family. So happy you are in a better place now..
I am so happy you got this new opportunity….you worked way too hard….It’s a lot of Dr. Pol to ask of his vets…this explains why others leave too….I am missing you on the show, however this blog is awesome…you should write a book…..I cant wait to hear your next installment…Keep up the good work…
Best of luck!! You are an inspiration
For what it’s worth, I never really got the impression you were rushing patients. You have to do what is best for you and your family. Living in Ohio, I understand the cold “feeling like being hit in the face with a skillet “. (So wonderfully accurate) You never know how the future brings. Maybe you will eventually go back to making baby horses ❤️
Dr Emily watching you as vet never looked like you were rushing, you always seemed to care about all the animals you worked with from killer kicking bulls to maggot covered cats to tiny baby puppies needing your help to bring them into this world. You were the main reason I watched Dr Pol and I think there were probably 100’s of thousands of others who felt the same. The Pol’s are def going to miss you as will all of your tv fans. Good luck in VA (I live in cold OH but lived in VA and absolutely loved it!).
Well said and I agree.
One more reason I have so much respect for you. Working at a doctor’s office I understand (in a different way) how you feel. I would much prefer to give a patient more time and attention then to be rushed through everyone in order to see more patients. I think they deserve more than that. Even though I will miss watching you on Dr. Pol I give you kudos for moving on. Family is always first. I say this because I had to choose this also, work or be with my mom. Well work will be there my mom no longer is. High praises to you!!!!
I’m in admiration of your boldness in expressing your feelings. Speak your truth and keep moving forward! You have a lot of supporters that understand that it is possible to speak honestly, criticize, and hold respect at the same time. Keep it up, the best is yet to come.
I’m in admiration of your boldness in expressing your feelings. Speak your truth and keep moving forward! You have a lot of supporters that understand that it is possible to speak honestly, criticize, and hold respect at the same time. Keep it up, the best is yet to come.
Love reading your blog !!! Nice to know we can still keep up with you and your family! You will definitely be missed on the show 😩
I’ll miss seeing you on Dr. Pol! I’m so sorry you had so much stress in your life. It’s always important to care for yourself first because if you don’t no one else will. I had to make a similar decision and escape from a tough environment too. It was so hard because I had to leave people who I care for a lot. However we’ve made amends but I still don’t plan to go back. I wish you and your family great blessings in your new journey!
“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.”
-Carl Bard
Well there’s a wiggly can of worms opened up. It makes me sad to know that things at the clinic aren’t stellar because I really do enjoy the show and learn a good bit while watching. (We have a small herd of beef cattle and no large animal vets in our area so the vetting falls to us). I appreciate you making yourself vulnerable to all of us “strangers” and opening up about how fragile stress and mental health are. Even for those of us who seem to “have it all together” there are serious struggles. I respect your decision. Family first. Always. Be well Emily- enjoy life with your family and make the life you love!
Thank you for being so transparent and real and sharing the backstory behind the glamour and sparkle of tv. You are a very brave women that used your faith and put you and your family first. Thank you for sharing. I will pray for you and your family. May God continue to bless you.
Hey Emily, really enjoying your blog. Took some guts putting yourself out there in this post, I’ve got lots of respect for that. Glad you’re in a better place for you and your family. I’ve tried a couple of times to blog myself but, honestly, I’m just not that interesting! Take care.
I had no idea.. we only see in part..
Kudos to you! So glad you found a better place where you don’t freeze your hiney off And more time with your kiddos! So important! Wishing you the best! 👍
I had no idea.. we only see in part..
Kudos to you! So glad you found a better place where you don’t freeze your hiney off And more time with your kiddos! So important! Wishing you the best! 👍 Thanks for sharing!
I often wondered since the show is so popular more people go to the office or if that was just the regular population needing help with their animals. Unfortunately, we need more Vet offices like that because most people can’t afford the high prices of Vet care. I’m glad you listened to your husband and especially your inner self. I’m glad you’re doing something that you love, now and that the family gets to see you on a regular basis.
Was this also the reason that other lady vet left, I believe her name is dr.
Sharkey
I really understand your position with a busy practice.I am retired NP. I was expected to see 1 pt q 15 mins..That was not fair to my patients. It started to really get to me so..i put on the brakes. I agree to a salary vs rvu’s. I was so much happier..Pt ‘s loved that I call with their lab and test results versus my very capable nurses. They enjoyed the personal contact with me an my staff. But I retired when Obama care came in.It prevented me from giving the care to my pts especially elderly pts..because of cost..ct with contrast vs mri ..when you needed the mri to began with ..So i retired ..miss my pts but i love volunteering at a pro life clinic..Enjoy your family..because they will grow up way too fast..love your blog..God Bless
My family and I enjoyed seeing you on Dr. Pol. We’ll miss seeing you, and wish you nothing but the best of luck in your new endeavors!
Dr. Emily,
You will be sorely missed on TV. I have grieving your absence since first hearing the dreadful news. That being said I commend your diligence to get into vet school, graduate, survive internship and the grueling hours you put in.
That doesn’t even come close to all you’ve been through to get where you are now. I am thankful that you rely on God to lead you and then trust Him enough to follow. I pray that your changes will foster healing in every way…For Tony, too!
I only “know “ you from tv, but, have been very proud of you in the field and have much respect for your intelligence and sheer determination. My prayers are with you and your beautiful family. You are a wonderful example.💕💕
PS: Get out the old purple stethoscope and wear it with pride!
Nancy,
I completely agree with you.
Ditto.
Dear Dr. Emily,
CONGRATULATIONS ON BEING TRUE TO YOURSELF!
It takes a lot of courage, confidence and trust (in yourself) to make significant changes to better balance all of your needs – mental, physical and spiritual in your work and family time. Kudos to you!
Thank you for candidly sharing your struggles and stories with us. I think you are an amazing human being. Some of the things I like most about you is your sense of humour, your inner geek, and your compassion.
The perspective we gain as we grow in our careers is immeasurable and at times surprisingly unexpected, but c’est la vie! As a nurse myself, my career has gone in directions I never imagined and I think I am a better off for it. It made me the person I need to be. It is natural to question the philosophy of the care we provide in the time we have and at the level of quality we desire. Often the triad gets stretched out of shape, then we take a breath and try to rebalance our sanity.
Being able to recognize when something isn’t working is difficult and scary at times and making bold changes to rectify them takes a huge amount of courage, energy and belief. Admitting your vulnerabilities can be your greatest source of strength. I see these strengths in you. You are a smart, strong, beautiful person who has so much to give and undoubtedly, we would be worse off without you.
When you’re feeling overwhelmed or depressed, try to focus on all of the good things you’ve done; the animals you saved; the people you’ve helped; the lives you’ve touched.
Never loose sight of the love and support available to you if you want it.
You don’t need to prove anything to any one.
Being your best self is ALL that matters. YOU MATTER!
I believe in you.
You are a gift.
You are enough.
Be well, Emily.
Know that you are loved.
Thank you very much. That was such a kind thing for you to say
Good for you for standing up for yourself and family. I can’t even imagine what that was like. I when I read that you left Dr. Pol it made me think on what happened. Sometimes it’s hard to think that you come first. I still like it though. IMO Charles grew up. (and I like the beard).
I liked the part when you said it was 6 F and Tony wanted to turn around. I don’t like the wind and freezing snowy weather. It must be so nice to relax and hang out with your family now. You get to do this blog and paint again. Also that I get to read it. Your a wonderful story teller.
I’m so proud of you. I could see the stress. I retired from nursing 2 yrs ago. Doctors & nurses(animal or human) are all being asked to do more in the same amount of time. I loved nursing but just couldn’t take the mental or physical stress.
I’m so proud you decided to take care of yourself for you , your marriage and your family. Everyone benefits and your patients too. I really thought that’s why you left. You gained so much knowledge and experience that you can always use. I hope Dr Brenda takes care of herself and stands up for herself too.
Dr. Emily I hope you know how much you are admired. I loved watching you on the show and will truly miss seeing and your family. I learned so much about animals from watching all of you. I am a grandmother and a mother of four grown children. When my children were young I worked from 5 a.m. till 6:30 p.m seven days a week. I did this for 16 years. When it was over I looked around and my kids were grown and gone and all the things I thought I would get to do or share with them I never will. One of my children has passed away and he gave me the greatest gift he could have. Up his passing he gave me custody of his son. I am disabled now and I get to do everything with him and for him. I completely understand why you made the choice to leave. Like others I would like to see a “Dr
Emily show” or maybe “Dr. Emily and Dr
Brenda show.” I got my grandson his first dog about a year ago. Thank you for helping me learn how to care for our dog. God bless you and I wish you all the best in your future. You will be missed.
I’m so happy that you got a second chance to raise a little one =)
Where in Virginia did you move too?
I long ago gave up writing online comments, but I stumbled across Dr. Emily’s blog this weekend and I can resist the urge to share no longer.
I am a mixed animal veterinarian with extensive experience in multiple rural practices, both as an associate veterinarian and a relief veterinarian. I actually don’t watch Dr. Pol’s show much, though from what little I have seen, and based on Dr. Emily’s assessment in this post, I feel comfortable opining that Dr. Pol is not an aberration. There are hundreds of practices across rural North America just like his, he just happened to have a son in the film industry who put his practice into millions of living rooms across the land. For the most part, I would not discourage a veterinarian from working at a rural mixed animal practice if they were looking to get some experience. However, I would never criticize them for leaving one. Living in a rural community and trying to be everything to everybody at rock bottom prices can help you figure out what really matters in medicine, business, family, and life in a real hurry. The compassion fatigue and burnout in such a clinical setting is very real, and the strain it puts on your mental health and family relationships is often crushing. Some veterinarians deal with this stress by using work as an escape. The gratification that comes from playing the part of the hero helps to numb the pain that comes from neglecting your family, the solvency of the business, and your own mental health. She can correct me if I’m wrong, but I think this may be what Dr. Emily was referring to when she said, “Selfishly . . . I enjoyed helping the people in need.”
She may not remember, but I actually had the privilege of getting to know Dr. Emily back in the bad’ol days when we were both student externs at Rood and Riddle; she even gave me a ride down to Atlanta to visit some of my family there. We had some good talks about horses, God, relationships, and life in general on that trip, but I had no idea she had become such a national celebrity! (Again I don’t really watch Dr. Pol even though my mixed animal clients CONSTANTLY ask me if I do . . . ;). Anyways, for what it’s worth, reading how your life, family, and career have turned out over the past decade has been a truly edifying experience. Good on ya Doc for making the most out of life and keeping your priorities straight! And thanks for letting your light shine!
Of course, I remember you!! That was a fun trip. I was trying to get down so I didn’t miss my sister-in-law’s wedding and you wanted a ride to visit family. I’m glad it worked out. I still think about some of the conversation we had about God and the pursuit of him. I appreciate your review and you are right, rural vets do a whole lot with very little. I love the challenge and love helping people on a budget. I hope you are doing well and enjoying yourself! Good to hear from you!
Well said!
Dr emily, I hope you get a chance to read this. I too had to leave a job due to mental health related issues. It was a good paying job but the stress and constant battle between the people I had to deal with was just to much for me and at times those people made me feel so insignificant due to my social status or something and that I should be happy to make the amount I did and also be blessed to be in their presence. I would come home stressed and take it out on my family. So for my and my family’s well being I left the job and it does take a strong person to leave a toxic environment (not saying that the Pol family was toxic) just that you needed to do what was good for you and your family. We change as we grow and what was good for us yesterday may not be good for us tomorrow.
Thank you for sharing your experiences. I don’t see it as bashing Dr Pol as much as you have a standard that you feel is better for you as a Dr and as someone who wants very much to do the best you can do and to be very thorough for yourself and clients. I admire you frankness, understanding and compassion.
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It takes courage to speak from your heart like you have. I’m so thankful your prayers were answered and you’re in a better environment now. A close friend of mine lost her husband to suicide 4 yrs ago….. its still a daily struggle for her as she faces her loss….so that kind of darkness hits close to home. I applaud you for fighting through it and making changes! I was so disappointed to hear you’d left PVS…the show wont be the same without you. Thanks to your blog, its great to hear you’ve made the decisions that are right for you and your family. 🙂
I think being at Dr Pol’s clinic was demanding and stressful and exhausting and educational and joyous and something most normal mortals could not have withstood. As you can see, we are all glad that you and your family are in a better place now – but I have to say, you also have a talent for working with large animals. Maybe when your children are older you will find a satisfyingly balanced practice, incorporating what you love and what you are good at (almost everything!).
Hi Dr. Emily, I meant to respond to this when it was posted, so coming back now. I was intrigued watching you on Dr. Pol, thought you were stoic, professional, incredibly hard working….and dryly funny. When I heard the names of your two boys I said OK, now I am very curious about her (love the names). I am on twitter mostly just to follow news but I looked you up late last year and saw a few of your posts ……you are very, very funny. Great sense of humor. I appreciate your honesty and compassion, and I appreciate your struggle . All the best to you, Tony , kids and family. BTW LOVE the pie chart!!!!!
Thanks for the update on your life post reality TV. You’ve made the right decision. You’ll never regret putting your mental and physical health, your husband and your kids first. Stay strong.