I was one of those little girls who had always wanted to be a veterinarian growing up. I was lucky because I was able to learn about this amazing profession since I was little. I loved tagging along with my dad on his works calls and watching him do amazing things that helps animals everyday. My dad is a large animal veterinarian and his job is not as glamorous as one might think it is. He is out in the boiling heat of July and the sub-zero temperatures of January. I know my dad loves his job and I am thankful for it.

I am glad my dad is a vet, I have learned so much from his profession.

I learned from a young age how to do basic medical care on my horses and other pets.

I learned that no pet or person lives forever and that death is a natural part of life.

I learned how to fill a syringe and give a shot.

I learned to not talk about a prolapsed uterus or any other gory stories around the dinner table with certain company.

I learned that it can take as much as 12 years of extra schooling beyond high school.

But the best thing I learned was that I personally did not want to become a vet.

This may be a shock to people, that I don't want to do what my dad does. I am always asked if I am going to veterinary school, but I am not. It takes a special kind of person to become a doctor of animals. This person needs drive, passion, ambition, and compassion. They need to be able to think outside the box, be dedicated to their job, and be able to work under pressure.

I know that I didn't want to work the long hours, and have to put down animals. I want to raise a family and have a job where I can have pastimes and not be called out in the middle of the night. I love this profession but I know that it is not right for me.

I am thankful my dad is a vet.

He puts in long hours and goes out of his way to help people.

Yes, he comes home smelling... mostly like money, and I love that he gets to do what he loves every day.

I just hope that I can find a job that will fit me as well as his career fits him.