She trained to deliver babies. She ended up delivering goats, treating zebras, and running one of the busiest mixed animal clinics around, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

In this candid episode of the Paws and Effect podcast, veterinarian Dr Christine Staten shares the unconventional path from aspiring obstetrician to mixed veterinary practice owner, and what it actually takes to build a veterinary business from scratch.

She’s honest about the parts most people don’t talk about: the weight of practice ownership, imposter syndrome, and how she protects work-life balance in a profession known for burnout.

Key topics:

• The leap from obstetrics dreams to large animal medicine.
• What no one tells you about owning a veterinary practice.
• Treating the unusual patients, from goats to zebras.
• Imposter syndrome and protecting your wellbeing in vet med.
• Building and leading a team that lasts.

Whether you’re dreaming of owning a practice, leading a team, or you just love the animals behind the medicine, Dr Staten offers a refreshingly hopeful take on where the veterinary profession is heading, and the flexibility, community, and passion that make it worth it.

Connect with Dr Christine Staten:

Instagram: @dr.christinestaten
LinkedIn: /dr-christine-staten-030bb168/

Connect with Dr Carra:

Website: drcarra.com
Instagram: @dr_carra
LinkedIn: /drcarra
Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: hillcrestvets.co.za

THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:

Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet premium pet food, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet premium pet food a try.
Check out Ultra Pets’ new range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/

Just for Pets is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that’s why we offer a wide ran.