Gemotions

The sterile white walls of the veterinary clinic felt cold. Dr. Ramirez watched as her replacement, a recent graduate named Emily, tried to calm a frightened puppy. The puppy whimpered and wriggled, its fear palpable. Emily's movements were stiff, and her voice lacked the soothing tone that often calmed the animals. Dr. Ramirez felt her own chest tighten, a shared sense of the young woman's stress.

“Let me show you,” she said, her tone soothing and calm.

She spoke softly to the puppy, and slowly, gently, took the puppy and began to pet it. She showed Emily how to approach the animal, using a gentle touch and reassuring voice. She also explained how the puppy might be feeling, and how to combat any anxieties.

After the examination, Dr. Ramirez sat down with Emily to talk about the incident.