Jade Jaguarundi
Dr. Philip De Shield
Associate Veterinarian, Animal Medical Centre, Belize City, Belize | BA (Chemistry) 2009, Goshen College | DVM 2014, Purdue University
My Story
The opportunity to form connections. The profession provided an idea; platform to branch out and find links/connections between humans, animals, and the environment.
My Struggles
Difficult financial decisions. Loss of close family during schooling. Distance learning. Feelings of inferiority. Imposter complex.
My Heroes
Father- Was a veterinarian who was widely respected.
Grandfathers-One very humble and the other persistent despite circumstances
Brother- He was the pioneer who helped me see the way
My Typical Day
A walk to work. Managing cases(from cleaning cages and setting up fluids to performing ultrasounds and radiographs). Sharing experiences with colleagues. Working with clients. Providing advice to wildlife rescue groups or potentially offering surgical services.
My Stressors
Trying to accommodate multiple people. Financial decisions. Time management.
I manage stressors through meditation, taking one day at a time, physical activity, and hiking in nature.
My Why
The diversity of the occupation. Being a good steward to our fellow earth inhabitants.