The Mark of Compassionate Care

Susan Ryan and her 9-year-old cocker spaniel, Goldie, have become familiar faces at the NC State Veterinary Hospital since Goldie received a pacemaker three years ago. And the faces at the hospital have become more like family.

“I am so glad I chose NC State,” said Ryan, who travels from her home in Richmond, Va., for Goldie’s hospital visits. “Each time we come, I am impressed and pleased with whoever is helping us that day. Doctors and students are so knowledgeable and take time to answer any and all questions I may have.”

It’s the hospital’s well-rounded compassionate care that Ryan appreciates the most and has come to expect. She and her primary care veterinarian in Richmond call with questions and receive timely answers from the cardiology service. Ryan brings Goldie in for check-ups — the most recent was October and his pacemaker is going strong — and to treat his endocardiosis, a mitral valve disease that can result in heart failure and requires medication.

Small animal intern Rachel Dickson, Ryan said, has been particularly helpful when Goldie has struggled to take the medicine, typically a large pill.

“[Dickson] found a compounding pharmacy in North Carolina that will ship to Virginia and makes the same medicine in a small yellow capsule,” said Ryan. “I appreciate that extra effort.”

Ryan has felt moved to make an extra effort of her own; she has started donating $100 yearly to the hospital. For Ryan, charitable donations must feel meaningful. She wants to celebrate a strong connection she has made and give thanks for a special relationship she treasures.

“My thought was, ‘Why would I not give to an institution that has given so much to me and countless others by treating and caring for our much-loved companions and by educating future veterinarians to do the same?’” said Ryan. “It’s the best way that I can say thank you.”

To make your own gift to the CVM, go here.

~Steve Volstad/NC State Veterinary Medicine