In this episode of The Business of Practice podcast, Caitlin Dobecka, DVM, discussed her experience starting a practice without using credit. She also discussed her paper “The Stay Factor: Unveiling the Paths to Success in Equine Practice,” presented at the 2024 AAEP Convention, in which she explores the importance of thinking outside the box and considering individual needs and circumstances to stay in equine practice.
Dobecka decided to start her own practice one year after graduation because of the lack of suitable job offers. She emphasized the challenges and decisions veterinarians face in their careers and the importance of considering the vision you have for your life. In her case, she did not want to accumulate additional debt, so she lived “small” and worked hard, only purchasing additional equipment when she had saved sufficient funds.
Dobecka said the most challenging aspect of her journey was her reluctance to hire support staff. She battled exhaustion until she finally onboarded her first employee after several years in business. Dobecka stressed the importance of setting boundaries, learning your capabilities, reevaluating sustainability during life’s different seasons, and making appropriate modifications. She reminded listeners that their value as human beings is not defined by their skills as a veterinarian.
About Dr. Caitlin Dobecka
Caitlin Dobecka, DVM, comes from the North Texas area and completed her undergraduate studies at Oklahoma State University, earning a B.S. in biochemistry and molecular biology. She earned her DVM from Texas A&M University in 2013. During her clinical year of veterinary studies, Dobecka trained at Dubai Equine Hospital, one of the world’s premiere equine facilities. After graduation, she completed an ambulatory internship at Peterson and Smith Equine Hospital in Ocala, Florida.
In 2014, Dobecka attended Options for Animals College of Animal Chiropractic and became certified by the board of the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association. In 2017, she completed the equine acupuncture course at the Chi Institute. In 2014, Dobecka opened a mobile equine practice that has evolved over the years into what is now Restoration Ranch Veterinary Wellness.
Outside of work, she is a mother of two young children and enjoys running a small ranch with her husband in Paradise, Texas.
Related Reading
- The Business of Practice: Emergency-Only Practice Model
- The Business of Practice: Hiring an Equine Practice Associate
- The Business of Practice: Creating a Personal and Practice Budget
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