Finding Joy in Veterinary Medicine: A Reflection by Dr. Kelly Cairns

As we mark five years since the initial lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic, it's a powerful moment to reflect on our journey as veterinary professionals. In a recent interview at the 2025 Fetch dvm360 conference in Charlotte, North Carolina …

I am running the Chicago Marathon in 2023 as a tribute to all the veterinary professionals who we have lost to suicide. I am also running this race in special honor of Charli (Alex) Rae Lewis, an amazing young human who we lost on September 5th 2021, just before their …

One of the most prevalent challenges within the veterinary sector is learning how to sustain happiness and well-being. During her keynote address at the Fetch dvm360® San Diego conference, Kelly Cairns, DVM, MS, DACVIM (SAIM), vice president of medical excellence and education at Thrive Pet Healthcare, spoke on the value …

One of the most prevalent challenges within the veterinary sector is learning how to sustain happiness and well-being. During her keynote address at the Fetch dvm360® conference, Kelly Cairns, DVM, MS, DACVIM (SAIM), vice president of medical excellence and education at Thrive Pet Healthcare, spoke on the value of cultivating …

Many of us in the veterinary profession have wanted to work with animals since we were in elementary school. In today’s language, one might say we’re living our purpose. But what does that mean, and how do we sustain the passion that helps us feel we really are …