Dr. Karyn Jones | Alumni | University of Guelph

Dr. Karyn Jones

Karyn Jones

Dr. Karyn Jones, B.Sc. ’95, DVM ’01

Companion Animal Veterinarian, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist and Owner of the Ajax Animal Hospital

How has your job been impacted by COVID-19?

Veterinary medicine is an essential service in Ontario and we have adjusted our approach over the last month as new information about COVID-19 became available. Where possible, we have moved to phone consultations and curbside prescription pick-ups. Premier Ford’s “urgent care only” mandate meant a transition to treating only injured or critically ill patients, and only vaccinating pets in support of public health. Patients are treated while families wait outside the hospital, but we keep them up to date by phone. It has been difficult, but I am doing my best to keep my team is safe while providing essential care.

How has your industry been affected?

The spring is very busy for companion animal veterinarians and the limitations on care we can deliver is challenging for small business, both financially and operationally. Veterinary teams provide primary medical and preventive care for pets, but we also perform dentistry, surgery, radiology, physiotherapy, pain control, and anesthesiology. Our practices also offer pharmacy, pet food, retail and on-site lab services. As needs increase with human healthcare, vets are taking precautions to conserve medical equipment and drugs, as many products are not available or back-ordered.

How do you stay busy or connected with family and friends?

Everyone is working long hours and it can be difficult to disconnect from the practice when I return home. Like many veterinarians, I rely heavily on my pets for stress relief and I am grateful for the love and distraction they provide. We have been using phone calls, frequent texts and video calls with our friends and family to keep in touch. It is difficult to be physically separated from the people we love, but in this way, we are not isolated from their support and kinship.

What has inspired you the most in your community?

I am very proud of our team. They are afraid, every day, and they are using their medical, interpersonal, communication and infection control skills beautifully to keep each other safe. This allows us to provide care to the patients that matter so much to us.

 

 

 

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