In the world of veterinary care, Anupam stands out not just as a locum veterinarian but also as the heart behind a palliative care service dedicated to pets. Her dual role offers a unique blend of medical expertise and emotional support, ensuring that families receive comprehensive care for their beloved animals.

Reflecting on her initial 15 years in clinical practice, Anupam realized something crucial was missing. While her technical skills were sharp, the holistic care she aspired to provide seemed incomplete. The fast-paced demands of a typical veterinary clinic left little room for the emotional support and thorough attention that pet owners needed alongside their pets’ medical care.

This realization led her to forge a path where she could serve as both a clinical guide and an emotional ally to families, advocating for their pets’ health while attending to the human aspect of pet ownership. For Anupam, it was about more than just treating an animal; it was about supporting the whole family unit during challenging times.

Her approach not only addresses the physical ailments of the pets but also offers a comforting presence to the families, ensuring they do not feel alone in the journey. This dedication to a more holistic method of practice is what sets Anupam apart, making her a cherished figure in the lives of those she assists.

In my first 15 years of clinical practice, I didn’t have enough time to care for pet parents as well.

Practising this way didn’t feel holistic and I wanted to do more.

Essentially, I provide a clinical perspective and emotional support to families while serving as their pet’s medical advocate.

Nursing animals like humans

It is a difficult process to watch someone you love fade towards the end of their life, and I believe the responsibility of deciding when to say goodbye weighs heavily on most.

‘Don’t want kids, don’t want to get married’

I’m quite happy to be single with dogs and enjoy life with them.

Their love feeds my soul, and they’ve saved me more than once.

A grief plan

Coming back from work to an empty apartment will just not feel like home anymore.

Anupam says her dog Nisha is her soulmate. Source: Supplied

I have a grief plan in place for when my dogs die, because I really don’t think I will be okay.

For many, it’s not so different from grieving a human.