digital lasers , in-house chemistries , digital x-rays , and newer medications .
“ You have to be careful you don ’ t become that old vet in town that does substandard work and substandard practice ,” Dr . Burkett said .
Clients are also surprised when they find out that their animals can even be referred to other specialists . Animals with heart problems can be sent to cardiologists , those with difficult skin issues can be sent to dermatologists , and animals with cataracts can have them removed by ophthalmologists .
But no matter what route the client takes , Dr . Burkett strongly emphasizes the importance of giving them their options . While trying to be as accommodating as
possible , especially with a client ’ s budget constraints , he never makes the judgment for any animal-owner .
“ Sometimes I ’ m pleased with my fellow man , sometimes I ’ m disappointed ,” he says . “ That ’ s life . You see that in every profession .”
Despite the overhaul of challenges he faces in his work , Dr . Burkett expresses that he ’ s lucky to have a staff that helps and supports him through it all . Members of his staff include those that have been around for 15 years , some of which are a part of his own family .
His step-daughter , Brittany Murphy , plays several roles at the animal hospital , being its head receptionist and one of its technicians , while managing its inventory and online platforms .
Despite her family ties to the owner , she still maintains a sense of professionalism . In fact , she says her relations only make working there more personal for her .
“ Not only is it my profession , but it is also a little bit more personal for me , so I do take my job a little bit more seriously because it does reflect my family ,” she stated .
All the while , she still feels their workplace carries a family atmosphere , noting , “ It ’ s always good to come to work when you know you ’ re going to be with people that love you and are here for the same reasons you are .”
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“ You have a level of expectation that you want your client to see and the expectation to take care of that animal well and as proper as you can .” - Dr . Bruce Burkett
RUBY
Somerset Animal Hospital
125 N . Hwy 2227 • Light # 1 Phone : 606-679-1266 Dr . Bruce G . Burke� Dr . Hillary N . Davis
Mon . - Fri . 7:30am - 5pm Sat . 7:30am-12pm • Closed Sun . ��� . S�������AH . ��� IN-HOUSE SERVICES
• Digital Radiology
• Therapy Laser
CAIN
• Laboratory Tes�ng
April 2023 SEKY - Life in Southeast Kentucky • 19