Discover

Story By Jacque Hilburn
Feature Writer

After Dr. Carol Black earned her credentials in veterinary medicine, she focused on treating animals. A few years ago, she decided to treat herself - to a new set of wheels.

"I was at a conference in Las Vegas," she said. "There was a company there that built mobile veterinary clinics. They put in all the equipment, even the garbage can."

She crunched the numbers, talked it over with family and colleagues and opted to jump into the wide, sometimes wacky, world of the self-employed.

"It was terrifying," she said, leaning against an exam table. "I graduated from veterinary school, saying, 'I don't ever want my own business. Now look.' ''

Three years have passed since she purchased the 26-foot custom clinic, complete with state-of-the-art equipment and supplies, to launch her practice, "My Vet of Tyler."

Knock on wood, business is booming.

If there is another mobile vet clinic in the region, Dr. Black says she's not aware of it.

"It's a real honor to do this type of work," she said. "It's a lot of fun to do it from here."

Going mobile has its advantages and its adventures, the vet acknowledges.

On the upside, there's constant variety, less stress on pets and more convenience for owners.

Gas seems to be the biggest downside.

"So far so good," said Dr. Black. "When I did my business plan, I guessed gas would be at $2 a gallon. I also estimated we would travel between 12 and 15,000 miles a year. As it stands, we're only doing about 8,000 miles. Even though gas has doubled, we haven't gone over" the initial projections.

Ever mindful of record-breaking gas prices, the thrifty veterinarian keeps costs down by scheduling appointments according to day of the week and zip code.

Assistant Melissa McFadden has served as Dr. Black's other right hand for about five years.

"We have so much fun," she said. "We have the greatest, most fun jobs in the world."

They deal mostly with dogs and cats.

Equally delighted with this doorstop doctoring, are the clients.

"On my gosh, I just love it," said a beaming Natalie Ginsberg, hugging her three tiny Yorkshire Terriers. "I have the best doggies in the world. When I used to have to take them in, they would scream and cry. I just couldn't do it, unless they were half dead. I love the fact they come here."

Gabi, Oliver and Lola, with her large pink bow, seemed less enthusiastic about curbside service.

The trembling trio was due for immunizations.

"Let's see who I can get on the scale next," said Ms. McFadden, scooping up one of the dogs. Pointing at Gabi's wagging tail, she added, "That is called a job perk."

All three animals brightened at the mention of a reward snack.

"Gabi never met a treat she didn't like," Dr. Black said.

The mobile clinic includes space for exams, consultations and education sessions.

High-tech equipment allows the veterinarian to give vaccinations and perform diagnostic lab work, anesthesia, dental procedures, outpatient surgeries, geriatric work-ups, home hospice care, follow-up care, home hospitalization, prescription delivery, technician services and microchip identification.

Less discussed are the in-home euthanasia services, allowing infirm animals to die at home instead of an unfamiliar clinic environment.

The vehicle's interior is outfitted with a myriad of equipment and products that range from digital scales and intravenous drips to a vaccine for combating canine tooth decay.

Tucked in the rear of the vehicle is a ladies' room.

"The restroom was an optional feature," said Dr. Black. "It may have been optional for them, but not for us."

Since hitting the road, days are never boring, the women said.

One visit was prompted after a client's cat became trapped in an electric lift; another had its tail run over by a wheelchair.

Many people seem to view the women as family.

"When we show up, they just go about their business. Some will leave us with a blank check or keys to the house," said Dr. Black.

Appointments often include additional duties, especially when the clients are elderly.

"We've hung drapes, gotten laundry out of the washer and moved furniture," said Ms. McFadden.

When it comes to cooperation, not all pets are created equal.

Animals can become unusually acrobatic when it comes to dodging a visit from the doc.

"We had a cat one time that liked it under the front seat," said Ms. McFadden.

Abilities to dash, crawl, climb and scale tall trees are included in the job descriptions, the women said.

Mrs. Ginsberg's well-behaved Yorkies are among the smallest clients; the largest is a 200-pound great mastiff.

There are easier ways to make a living than running the roads, loaded with rubber gloves and fecal test kits, but Dr. Black said she's never been more content.

"No regrets," she said.

Dr. Carol Black takes her skills on the road with her new, full service mobile vet center.
(Staff Photo By Jaime R. Carrero)