‘All animal lovers must get their pets vaccinated’

Vrushali Brahmankar is a veterinary doctor.  She is currently pursuing her Masters in Veterinary microbiology from Mumbai Veterinary College. An Apeejay School, Kharghar alumnus from the batch of 2016, the veterinary expert says all pet lovers must get their pets vaccinated to prevent the animals from contracting infectious diseases. Edited excerpts:

What inspired you to take the decision to become a vet doctor?

I was always interested in biology. So I opted for medicine and dropped Math in class 11. I explored the career options in the medical field. I found that this field is something new and people are least aware of the scope in this field. 

What exactly is veterinary microbiology?

It is determining the root cause of every disease in the case of animals. In most diseases, microorganisms are involved. So, whenever we go for diagnostics or treatment most of the time, we have antibiotic resistance. We determine the actual cause and test the antibiotics also in the case of animal diseases.

Are you an animal or pet lover? Is that why you chose to be a vet doctor?

My family comes from an agricultural background (My grandparents actually). In summer vacations, we used to visit them and a lot of animals were there in their place. Many doctors would also come to check on the animals. In medical specialists dealing with humans, there is only one species, but for a vet there are so many species to explore.  

How did your school help you to pursue your dream?

I was an average student at school. But my bio teacher encouraged me to do better. At the end of class 12, when the results came I saw that I topped in biology in my batch. I was in shock, I called my teacher but she already knew and had an immense faith in me

A word of caution for pet lovers

Get your pet vaccinated. Pets get prone to diseases if you don’t get them vaccinated.

Steps an aspirant should follow to become a vet doctor like you

Hard work 

Being patient 

Being consistent and realising that eventually everything falls into place