In this thought-provoking third episode of the VetMore Podcast, Dr. Vassiliki Stathopoulou talks to Dr. Wolfgang Dohne, a veterinary surgeon whose career spans clinical expertise, international leadership, and educational reform. Together, they explore Dr. Wolfgang Dohne’s unique path into veterinary medicine—sparked by a love of biology and a deep respect for animals. From the challenges of mentorship in large academic settings to the emotional demands of patient care, the conversation offers a grounded look at what it means to lead with empathy, adapt to change, and find fulfillment in the everyday moments of practice.

Dr. Wolfgang Dohne also shares insights from his diverse experiences across Europe, touching on the power of communication, the richness of locum work, and the role of cultural fluency in client care. Beyond the clinic, his contributions to veterinary education, scholarship programs, and reflective writing in The Blue Vet Diary highlight a lifelong commitment to growth and connection. Whether you're a student, a seasoned vet, or navigating the locum life, this episode offers valuable lessons in leadership, wellness, and the enduring power of the human-animal bond.

Chapter Notes:

00:00 Introduction to VetMore and Wolfgang Dohne
03:54 Wolfgang's Early Life and Influences
04:19 Education and Mentorship in Veterinary School
06:03 Career Path and Diverse Expertise
10:35 Human Medicine VS Veterinary Medicine
11:35 The Burden of the Responsibility
12:26 University Life in Hanover
14:45 Reflections on Happiness and Life Balance
20:27 Delayed Gratification
21:31 Career Spanning Multiple Countries
25:59 People Bloom in Different Environments
27:05 The Importance of Work-Life Balance
28:11 Shifts and Work Hours in Veterinary Medicine
29:52 Adapting to Different Work Environments
30:35 Working Through Winter
30:45 Leisure After Work
31:39 Doing Emergency and Critical Care Work
32:26 The Role of Teamwork in Veterinary Practice
33:08 What is the Locum Work?
35:12 Working with Professional Nursing Teams
36:08 Communication and Client Relationships
36:53 Appreciating The Team
41:24 Learning from Specialists and General Practitioners
49:04 Leadership Qualities in Veterinary Medicine
53:59 Feeling At Home in the Workplace
55:54 The Value of Travel in Professional Development
58:42 Creating a Supportive Work Environment
59:29 The Importance of Personal Connections at Work
01:01:11 Corporate vs. Independent Practices
01:01:18 The Human Capital
01:02:42 Navigating Corporate Challenges
01:06:02 Experience with Corporate
01:07:02 Making Decisions Based on What You Love
01:09:38 The Evolution of Veterinary Education
01:17:29 Establishing Scholarships for Future Generations
01:22:43 The Blue Vet Diary: A Personal Reflection
01:26:10 The Essence of Resilience and the Human Spirit
01:27:21 Integrating Advanced Veterinary Practices
01:28:33 Perceptions of Veterinary Medicine
01:29:49 The Intersection of Travel and Veterinary Medicine
01:31:02 Overcoming Skepticism as a Foreign Veterinarian
01:35:12 Building Trust with Clients
01:37:04 Lessons from Starting One's Own Clinic
01:40:58 The Value of Honesty in Clinical Work
01:44:12 Reflections on Mortality and Life Choices
01:50:14 Lessons from Animals
01:54:09 The Importance of History and Human Experience
01:54:19 The Joy of Reading in the Age of Social Media

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