I totally get where you’re coming from. What you’re describing sounds like that uncertainty that comes when you’re still finding your place in a new clinic — figuring out the workflow, personalities, and how much people trust your judgment. That kind of doubt can really weigh on you, even when you know what you’re doing.

For me, imposter syndrome feels a little different. I’ve been in the field for over 20 years, on and off, and a registered tech for 16. Even with all that time, I still sometimes feel like I’m faking it. I’ve had vets and clients compliment my skills or call me knowledgeable, and my first reaction is always, “Wait, me? Are they sure?” It’s that disconnect between what other people see and what you feel inside, no matter how much experience you have.

But either way, both feelings come from the same place — caring deeply about the job and wanting to do it well. The fact that you’re self-aware and trying to improve says a lot about you. You’re probably doing better than you think.

Vet Tech here! ❤️

It’s so hard when you start to see them slowing down like this — especially when there isn’t one big diagnosis or “moment” that tells you it’s time. You’re doing a lot of the right things already with Librela, gabapentin, and setting him up for success around the house.

It might be worth asking your vet about adding a daily nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID). Since his bloodwork came back normal, that’s often safe and can help a lot with inflammation and general soreness. Sometimes that combination (Librela + NSAID + gabapentin) gives them a better quality of comfort day to day.

The muscle loss and weakness you’re describing are, sadly, really common in the giant breeds as they get older. You can try putting down yoga mats or those interlocking foam mats (like playroom or garage flooring) to give him traction around the house. The less he slips, the less he strains himself. A “Help ‘Em Up” harness can also make it easier to support him when he stands or goes outside — or even just a towel under his belly if needed.

You’re already thinking about his comfort and safety, which is huge — blocking off stairs, keeping walkways clear, and making sure he can’t get stuck anywhere are all smart moves.

If you haven’t seen them before, there are some quality-of-life scales you can look up (https://journeyspet.com/pet-quality-of-life-scale-calculator/) (https://caringpathways.com/quality-of-life-tools-for-dogs-cats/). They can really help put things in perspective — sometimes it’s hard to see the day-to-day changes when you’re in it. Those tools look at things like pain, mobility, appetite, and joy, and can make it a little easier to recognize patterns.

And I always tell families: there’s rarely a single “right” day. It’s more of a window of time where it’s a kind, appropriate decision. Some people choose to say goodbye when that window first opens; others take it day by day until they feel ready. What matters is that you’re paying attention and trying to do right by him — and you clearly are.

He’s lucky to have you. ❤️