WEEK     JOB: VETERINARY ASSISTANT

LOCATION: CAMBRIDGE, ONTARIO

EMPLOYER: HESPELER ANIMAL HOSPITAL

WAGE: $12–$18 HOUR

JOB DESCRIPTION: Held down the animals while anesthetic was administered, monitored heart rates during surgery, lubed up thermometers and took temperatures (yes), prepared blood smears, polished teeth, assisted with X-rays, collected urine samples.

INDUSTRY IQ:

• Prior to the 1980s veterinarians were predominantly male. Today they are predominantly female.

• For those who love to work closely with animals but are unable to pursue a career as a veterinarian, becoming a veterinary assistant is a great alternative.

• 63 percent of all households in America own pets.

WHAT I LEARNED: Eat before observing fatty lump removals.

Lizzy, a very sweet schnauzer, was in for surgery to have a fatty lump removed. I’d met Lizzy the day before. She sat nicely and didn’t bark while I put eyedrops in her eyes, helped feed her, and took her temperature.

With Lizzy prepped for surgery, Dr. Langlais entered the room wearing surgical gloves and mask. She reached for her scalpel on the medical tray unit, then, before making the first incision, turned to Ian and me. “I hope you boys ate something this morning,” she said. “’Cause you’re not going to be hungry afterward.”