By Tracy Sands, DVM
I chose the subject for my Mic Drop at the October Get Sh*t Done conference because it was my story. I am passionate about creating a veterinary workplace where team members want to come to work in the morning and don't leave emotionally exhausted at night. I learned through my own experience that the best way you can preserve this environment is to let go of toxic personalities even if they are skilled workers. By sharing my story, I hope other practice owners and managers realize that just because someone is skilled does not mean that they are right for your team. If I had not had the support of colleagues telling me that it was okay to let go of a long-term employee, I might not have made the choice to do so and our culture would be less because of it. Now it is my turn to support others in this decision.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of the Unchartedvet.com editorial team.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Change is so important to Tracy Sands that it is one of her company core values. She graduated in 2004 as a food animal practitioner and has gone through many career steps to get to where she is today. In 2013, as a part-time small animal practitioner, she was told that she would have to be less progressive or leave the practice. Tracy embraced this open door and started her own mobile practice, putting things into high gear. In the past 5 years she has focused on client/veterinary bonds, developing a positive team, and every aspect of Fear Free. When she couldn't fit all the client demand and drive times in any longer, Tracy designed and built Healing Paws Veterinary Care and Pet Resort. Making her practice a place where clients and staff can feel relaxed, respected, and trusted is a priority and, sometimes, that takes making the hard decisions. Outside of work, Tracy spends time with her husband and 2 kids on their farmette and is a cheerleader for all things Uncharted!