Am I being overly sensitive?

[hnybun128]

Originally Posted by Ellie May

I did want to clarify that those kinds of comments aren't acceptable and it's absolutely fine to have 6 animals as long as they are all well cared for.

But yes, vets and physicians do care how many you have. First, physicians care because they want to know about psychological issues like hoarding and they want to know how likely it is for you to be exposed to zoonotic diseases. It also gives a picture of what your environment is like.

A very common question in vet med is "does this pet have any friends at home". No other animals in the house, much less chance of certain things (esp. in teh case of indoor cats that never go outside). If they understand the exposure level that the animal has on a daily basis, it can help with a diagnosis. Also, if an owner comes in saying that cat x has loose stool, but yet they also get out of the owner that 20 other cats are present, then vet knows that is probably just a guess, etc. Not all owners are good ones. Some are really terrible, actually. They don't know what they're doing and do not give each animal the attention that it needs. So even though you wouldn't fall into this category, a lot of owners do and it's hard to vet staff to tell at times.

I do understand your point and it's valid. This vet has only seen me for the past year, but does have complete records on everybody. Heck, I'll admit I may even be overly sensitive about the issue. If it was my practice, I'd want to know if someone was offended, though, even if it was unintentional. If the staff is as nice and friendly as they seem, I'm sure they would want it pointed out that they're making potentially hurtful remarks.

[hnybun128]

Originally Posted by Britster

It's like when you see a huge dog like a Great Dane, most peoples comments are "he's like a horse!" or something like that. Just how a lot of convo starters with Yorkies are "they are so tiny!"

It's funny you mention that because one of my first thoughts was that I only have about 6lbs combined of dog in my house! Of course, the cats do contribute another 32lbs of furriness to the household... All joking aside, I think my point is that I have plenty of room for all of my four legged family members.

I think it bothers me because there have been multiple comments. This wasn't an isolated incident. Does that make sense?

[MaddiesMommie]

You can always mention something to your vet about how you take the comment. He/She may feel comfortable enough with you that they "think" they can joke with you in this fashion. I only have 3 dogs and have certainly gotten those "Oh, another one" comments from family. They know I love my pets like people so I just smile and start showing pictures.

[Farleys]

I am a veterinary Technician, and i have to say i know how you feel. I take very good care of all 3 of my dogs, and they all get the best food, and vet care , anything and everything they need. I have also fostered alot of animals, kittens, birds, puppies, senior dogs.... etc, And sometimes when i come to work with another foster, they say, " oh my goodness , another?" OR , " why i am i surprised, i cant beleive you brought home another!" And i finally said one day, why does it matter to you guys? I love doing it, i have found every single one loving permanant homes, and it makes me feel good, like im helping. I give them everything they need, pay for all ther medical care. SO they way i see it, why do they care? SO then finally one of the girls i work with, said i think what you do is great, and you have helped so many that may be dead if it wasnt for you. I think sometimes, if you dont tell people how you feel, they dont realize thats how they came off. So i know that if i ever made someone feel that way at my vet clinic, i would want to know, so i could avoid doing it again.

[Nancy1999]

I see no negative connotation at all, when someone says "Another one?" To me, they are simply saying they remember you from before and with a different animal. I think that people who have lots of pets are some of the most loving people I know, and I can see myself saying "Another one?" as just saying “Oh you have a new pet”. Do you feel the slightest bit guilty about having “another one”? Maybe you think they are judging you in a negative way?

[hnybun128]

Originally Posted by Nancy1999

I see no negative connotation at all, when someone says "Another one?" To me, they are simply saying they remember you from before and with a different animal. I think that people who have lots of pets are some of the most loving people I know, and I can see myself saying "Another one?" as just saying “Oh you have a new pet”. Do you feel the slightest bit guilty about having “another one”? Maybe you think they are judging you in a negative way?

I actually considered this, but I don't think so. And the more I thought about it, the more I'm sure it's the same receptionist making the comments. The vet did make one comment once, but I think all the others were probably from the same woman. You can never really know what's going on in someone else's head, but I do kind of feel there's a slight tone with the comments.

[Nancy1999]

Originally Posted by hnybun128

I actually considered this, but I don't think so. And the more I thought about it, the more I'm sure it's the same receptionist making the comments. The vet did make one comment once, but I think all the others were probably from the same woman. You can never really know what's going on in someone else's head, but I do kind of feel there's a slight tone with the comments.

You may be reading other things, such as lack of smile or some type of attitude. Perhaps. someone here can give you a snappy comeback for next time. Let's see, how about, "Without people like me, you'd be out of a job!"

[hnybun128]

Originally Posted by Nancy1999

You may be reading other things, such as lack of smile or some type of attitude. Perhaps. someone here can give you a snappy comeback for next time. Let's see, how about, "Without people like me, you'd be out of a job!"

Nancy, I'm totally using that if the vet makes another comment!

[Nancy1999]

Originally Posted by hnybun128

Nancy, I'm totally using that if the vet makes another comment!

Lol, for your vet I’d use the line, “Without me, you’ll never get that new boat!”

[KazzyK810]

Originally Posted by hnybun128

I actually considered this, but I don't think so. And the more I thought about it, the more I'm sure it's the same receptionist making the comments. The vet did make one comment once, but I think all the others were probably from the same woman. You can never really know what's going on in someone else's head, but I do kind of feel there's a slight tone with the comments.

Yeah, it sometimes not just what is said, but what is said & HOW it is said. I think of my daughter as a teen. She could say "have a nice day" in such a way in such a way she may as well have flipped you off.

[Bentleys Momma]

Originally Posted by hnybun128

I actually considered this, but I don't think so. And the more I thought about it, the more I'm sure it's the same receptionist making the comments. The vet did make one comment once, but I think all the others were probably from the same woman. You can never really know what's going on in someone else's head, but I do kind of feel there's a slight tone with the comments.

This is seems to really really be bothering you. My only recommendation would be to not wait until the next visit. I think going in and nicely let them know that you are bothered. More than likely, the receptionist doesn't realize that you are taking offense to it.

OK, probably being too open on a public forum here but... from someone who grew up in a very critical household, I can overanalyze a statement with the best of them!!! I sleep much better at night now that I no longer let it eat at me until it impacts my health and/or happiness. I have found that 99.9% of the time, it was not said to try to hurt your feelings or out of spite. In the few times that I did believe the comment was malice in nature, it also feels pretty nice to walk away with that person knowing that you intend to call their bluff on any snide remarks moving forward.

But again, in my opinion, don't wait. Just go in and tell them how much you have enjoyed the services you have received there but that something has been eating at you and would appreciate two minutes to just "clear the air". You will feel so much better afterwards.

I wish you the best of luck especially because finding a vet that you truly love and fully trust with your babies can be so difficult.

[gidget529]

Originally Posted by Nancy1999

You may be reading other things, such as lack of smile or some type of attitude. Perhaps. someone here can give you a snappy comeback for next time. Let's see, how about, "Without people like me, you'd be out of a job!"

Originally Posted by Nancy1999

Lol, for your vet I’d use the line, “Without me, you’ll never get that new boat!”

[ArmaniMan]

It would annoy me. My whole family- my parents, my sister, and I use the same vet between us we have 4 dogs and 2 cats (3 until very recently)- we joke with them that we should have a wing there named after us- and they will sometimes jokingly(?) try to send us home with strays- but it is all in fun. I honestly think it is inappropriate for a receptionist to comment on your pets in a negative fashion at all. If they think there is a problem they should have the vet investigate and address it. And, if all animals in the house are well taken care of, vetted, in good condition, etc. they should keep their nose out of how many pets you have.

[BabyGirl Rosie]

I would say something to her or to the vet. If she was saying in a sarcastic manner. I think you would know the difference if it was sarcastic or joking. And as someone else mentioned, I would do it now. Not on my next visit. Makes me appreciate the two sweethearts that work at my vet's office. They are wonderful, wonderful ladies.

[susan lynn]

Originally Posted by KazzyK810

Yeah, it sometimes not just what is said, but what is said & HOW it is said. I think of my daughter as a teen. She could say "have a nice day" in such a way in such a way she may as well have flipped you off.

Hey I have a 17 year old son that can act and talk just like your daughter, Think they could be related?