A message from Dr. Jackson

January 21, 2022

Dear Valued BVH Clients,

I  hope that this letter finds you and your family well as we begin the new year.  I would like to thank those who took the time to read my previous letter, where I explained the current state of the veterinary field, not only in general, but at BVH specifically.  Our staff greatly appreciated the outpouring of kind words, support, and understanding. It helped us all get through a particularly difficult period. The surprise goodies were consumed immediately and appreciated! 

As 2022 begins, I have a renewed hope that the situation at BVH will continue to improve. BVH has several new, experienced, and enthusiastic staff members that we are excited for you to get to know. I am planning to utilize this increase in support staff. Hereafter I will be relying on them to be my liaisons in client communication and education. This is my attempt at improving our service to each of you. The success of BVH depends on our teamwork, and the utilization of my staff’s assets.

Unfortunately there has been no progress made on a full time veterinarian joining our team. However, some of you may have had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Nerone, or Dr. Kenzora, who are relief doctors that lend their time to BVH whenever available. As the only permanent veterinarian at BVH, I am confident that I can continue to provide quality care for your four legged fur babies, and I remain optimistic about who or what the future of 2022 may bring!

Fondly,

Dr. Katherine A. Jackson






September 22, 2021

Dear Valued BVH Clients,

I hope that all of your families are doing well since the COVID pandemic entered our lives.  I needed to take this opportunity to speak on a serious topic, give you an update on the current status at BVH, and provide you with insight into the veterinary profession in general.

Most of you are aware that I have been the only veterinarian working at BVH since this past April.  Our hospital's current situation is a reflection of the entire veterinary field. Shortages are occurring on a national level within the industry.  In fact, the veterinary profession is among the TOP industries experiencing a serious staffing shortage of doctors, technicians, receptionists, and all other support staff. 

COVID has contributed to our current situation in many ways.  When COVID arrived, the veterinary field was deemed “essential”.  In other words, we worked tirelessly through the entire pandemic.  We never got a break to physically or emotionally recharge. In addition, during 2020 & 2021 Americans adopted over 18 million new pets. Veterinarians have  been trying to accommodate this unprecedented number of new patients in addition to continuing to care for their pre-existing patients, again, not having adequate time or staff to deal with the everyday demands.

A fact that I would like to share with you all about the veterinary field is that veterinarians have the highest suicide rate of any profession. It has been this way for decades.  Contrary to popular belief, our days are not filled with cute puppies  and cuddly kittens.  Being in the veterinary field means long hours, physical and mental exhaustion, irreplaceable lost time with family, and often multiple euthanasias in one day.  COVID has exacerbated our daily stresses, resulting in a plethora of valuable professionals and support staff leaving the industry.

The reason I am sharing these facts about the veterinary field is not because I want sympathy.  Instead, I am pleading for empathy, understanding and patience. Please be kind and respectful to our receptionists. Threatening, abusive, and rude comments or actions are not acceptable and will not be tolerated. Please be considerate and appreciative of our technicians and assistants who care for your pets.  They are working endlessly to ensure that all of your pets are receiving the best care possible. We treat your fur babies like part of our family, now please do the same with my staff and respect them as if they are a part of yours. They are critical for me to function as the sole veterinarian at Bethany Veterinary Hospital.  Thank you.

Respectfully,

Dr. Katherine A. Jackson & The Staff of Bethany Veterinary Hospital

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Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:30 am-7:30 pm

Tuesday:

8:30 am-5:30 pm

Wednesday:

8:30 am-5:30 pm

Thursday:

8:30 am-7:30 pm

Friday:

8:30 am-5:30 pm

Saturday:

8:30 am-2:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

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Read What Our Clients Say

  • "We have been bringing our dogs here for 16 years. Can't ask for better care or service! Dr. Jackson and the staff are excellent!"
    -Lisa