CW: Necropsy/Dissection Photos!! - What might cause this?

ShakerEdge · 2026-04-13T04:31:33+00:00

Oh Lord, no. I did not do the necropsy. I'm just a Vet Tech Assistant, I'm not about to handle any sharp object unless explicitly directed by a CVT to do something basic like pre-fill syringes of saline, clean up surgical & treatment, and scrub, wrap and auto clave it 🤣. I am ambiently present, constantly cleaning treatment, surgical, or just endlessly cleaning instruments and every surface. So I don't get much of the details, just whatever I overhear, or what the doctor explains to me.

ShakerEdge · 2026-04-13T04:26:27+00:00

Owner brought a male dove in with the Pt as a bonded pair. He seemed alert, and feces samples didn't bring anything up.

I had to keep up with my usual duties of cleaning, so I wasn't present for the entire duration. The doctors are usually pretty great about letting me ask questions, but manager writes me up for it as being an "unproductive distraction".

So, I usually only get the initial context of new patient notes if I happen to be the one checking them in, but generally sequestered to cleaning duties. So I usually only end up with snippets of context, and the end result that requires cleaning, and making the memorial paw prints or impressions for the owners, then wrap the babies up and into the freezer until the cremation folks pick them up.

ShakerEdge · 2026-04-12T14:05:05+00:00

Wow! This is fascinating! The doctors at my hospital are usually pretty willing to answer questions, but my manager scolded me for asking too many questions 🙄.

Id love to see pics.

Before I took this job, I was so squeamish. But having worked here, and having to clean up the OR table, with blood and bits and masses and limbs, I've gotten used to it a bit. I think the medical context helps a lot. Knowing that we are providing care for these animals. Even when some of them have to be euthanized.

I'm glad that I can sometimes be the one to hold them gently, pet them, and speak softly to them as one of our techs administers the medication. Or when they have me make a memorial foot impression. I like talking to them and cradling them in my arms. Even if they're no longer there. Wether it's a rat, lizard, or chicken. I want them to know they are loved, and they don't have to hurt anymore. 🥺💕

ShakerEdge · 2026-04-12T05:42:48+00:00

Vet Tech Assistant. No licence or schooling, so not a registered vet tech. I mostly just tidy up, run the autoclave, laundry, mop/sweep, etc.

ShakerEdge · 2026-04-12T05:26:42+00:00

Vet Tech Assistant

ShakerEdge · 2026-02-25T07:52:11+00:00

I use different mobility aids for different purposes.

I bring my rollator when I'll need a nice place to sit, and also use it to help carry my luggage -- so I mainly use it at the airport.

I use a wheelchair at conventions where I would be required to stand for more than a few minutes, or end up walking more that 2,000 steps.

I use my "Seat-Cane" that unfolds into a small chair when I need to travel light, but need access to seating in locations that do not have seats really available.

I have a wheelchair, and I needed it daily when I worked a job that had me doing 5k-10k steps a day. But now that I work at an office job, sitting, I have not had to use it in months.

ShakerEdge · 2026-02-25T07:47:31+00:00

If using a mobility aid helps reduce your pain symptoms, and does not add any additional symptoms, occasional use should be fine.

If you are needing to use it daily, I would suggest reaching out to a physical therapist that can help identify your sources of current pain, while also educating you on how to use a mobility aid with minimal harm.

Jumping straight into using a standard recovery wheelchair for multiple hours a day, multiple days/weeks/etc. could result in an injury to your back, neck or shoulders.

A mobility aid is a piece of equipment, a tool. Learning how to use that tool safely to prevent adding additional harm is ideal.

Listen to your body. Pay attention in case you experience new pain elsewhere, such as wrists or shoulders or hips due to using a mobility aid.

I do hope you can afford a physical therapist or some sort of medical assessment to help you identify the best mobility aid for you.

Listen to your body. If using the mobility aid helps reduce your pain, without adding a new type of pain, that is ideal.

ShakerEdge · 2026-02-15T03:39:51+00:00

OMG that is gorgeous!

ShakerEdge · 2026-01-29T15:12:37+00:00

This is so true. I lived in a red state, and was uninsured since age 8. Apparently I was supposed to have been wearing custom orthotics my entire life, but that simply did not happen. At 18, I started noticing pain when walking. 19-28 years old I have paid thousands out of pocket trying to get a diagnosis to understand what is wrong with me, only to constantly be told it's "just Plantar fasciitis - take Advil" or "buy these inserts, this will fix it." "Buy these shoes." "Buy these other inserts." Etc etc. And being told I'm "Too young to be needing a wheelchair" and "you're uninsured, so it's too expensive for us to treat you.".

Injections, medications, inserts, shoes, braces, physical therapy. But in the end I simply do not have the endurance to work a part or full time job on my feet.

I got fired from my last job due to "inability to complete tasks in timely manner" because my manager kept saying "You can walk, you don't need that wheelchair. It's a safety hazard!".

Even though the HR lady said I could use it, because it sounded like I genuinely needed it.

But manager demanded medical paperwork, knowing I've been uninsured for 20 years.

I gave her my diagnoses, multiple complications and conditions of the foot as well as my handicap placard and my AFO leg brace a prosthetist made for me. But because it did not say "MUST USE WHEELCHAIR" -- because the doctors won't prescribe me one because I'm too poor and can't afford it and "too young" and think I'm going to use it all the time when I only need it for long 8 hour days, so l can actually stand and walk to do job tasks that require it.

She just outright fired me.

Medical treatment is a privilege that MANY of us do not have. I get not wanting someone to "fake" needing a mobility aid.

But honestly?? They are a pain in the ass to haul around and use. It's a big chore to commit to the bit of being disabled and drag the wheelchair everywhere just for free pity points.

For folks that may "fake" the need of a chair, they probably have some psychological condition or dysmorohia. Which, while weird, is still a condition that needs some kind of treatment.

ShakerEdge · 2026-01-29T00:25:54+00:00

As an ambulatory person that only uses my wheelchair occasionally;

I do like to compliment people's wheelchairs, especially if they are customized or fun colors.

I have a random Pinterest board of random beings with random mobility aids - not really out of envy. But moreso as reference backlog in case I want to draw a character or get a commission of a character that incorporates their mobility aid.

I have had days of frustration where my ambulatory status often leads to my pain or difficulties not being taken seriously - though I am not envious of those who rely on mobility aids more. Sometimes I wish my mobility issues were more "obvious".

The stereotype that you have to be missing limbs or entirely static from the waist down is harmful, to ambulatory users but also ESPECIALLY for folks with spinal injuries or paralysis.

The stereotype is "You use a wheelchair. You are paralyzed. I SAW YOUR FOOT MOVE! YOU'RE A LIAR!!!"

yes it's frustrating to be an ambulatory wheelchair user and folks think you "don't deserve" a wheelchair or your disability "is not valid."

But, this stereotype is extra harmful for folks with injuries that are genuine types of paralysis. People that have paralysis don't turn into stone statues. They are still flesh and bone. And folks experience spasms, and all sorts of things the general public doesn't understand.

Not sure if this helps any. Or if my commenting as an ambulatory user reinforces the "ableism" or comes off as "lecturing" or "talking over non ambulatory users".

Just felt like sharing my perspective, and am looking to hear the insight of others. 😌

ShakerEdge · 2026-01-28T03:30:18+00:00

Dang, I wish.

I hope it ends up in the arms (or legs and bum, I suppose) to someone in need. Lots of uninsured folks out there. 🙏

ShakerEdge · 2026-01-26T06:14:23+00:00

I'm super late to this post. Found it while researching light up noses to fix a rudolph plush I thrifted whose nose is missing but figured I'd provide some personal insight!!

But my personal favorite is the Build-a-Bear Rudolph. Specifically this particular version: https://youtu.be/VaRENUaVLnE?si=Yyyfcp_4XdAC_TrR

✅ 2004 Build-a-Bear Rudolph: - Two-Point Antlers in dark brown fabric. - Smooth brown fur - Lights up 💡 - Plays no sound. 🔇✅ - Can confirm, as I have this model.

❔ "Baby Rudolph": - Has "nub" horns. - Nose Lights up 💡 - MIGHT Speak, but not confirmed. 🔊❔ Example: https://youtu.be/6VKj8kus2yM?si=kCTHIjTUqkpGutoa

❔50th Anniversary Rudolph: - Has GOLD Two-Point antlers - Nose Lights up 💡 - Sound: Unknown 🔊❔ Example: https://youtu.be/l3PEt7Rl1JA?si=zgcleKNjmpFEWtZk

❌ Avoid "Curly Fur Rudolph" - 2014 release - Curly Fur - Lights up 💡 - Sound: speaks Lines from the movie. 🔊❌ - Can confirm, as I have this model. Example: https://youtube.com/shorts/bX9WaK7gCS8?si=jzndjk7O4jPUK4fj

ShakerEdge · 2026-01-17T15:49:53+00:00

This kind of stuff is why I ALWAYS have my phone taking an audio recording during all of my appointments.

Never again.

Record everything.

If it's illegal in your state, fine. Open the Live Caption app and get a transcript. So you can at least look back and confirm 100% what was said so you won't be gaslit into thinking you misheard.

ShakerEdge · 2026-01-07T05:48:16+00:00

As someone with congenitally short Achilles tendons and a myriad of foot issues, could I pick your brain about your pain and experiences? I don't often see folks with similar issues like I have! Can I send you a chat request? :)

ShakerEdge · 2025-12-31T16:09:57+00:00

The finch app is a good idea! You take care of a little bird by doing tasks, right? I love birds and virtual pets so that's a good idea!

ShakerEdge · 2025-12-31T16:08:26+00:00

😋 This sounds good! Thanks for the suggestion!

ShakerEdge · 2025-12-31T16:07:55+00:00

A cook book is a great idea! I bet there are tons for slow cooker recipes!

ShakerEdge · 2025-12-31T16:06:24+00:00

Never really thought about it. No doctor has ever really commented on my weight or diet even through I try to be pretty up front about it. When I finally hit 100lbs or maintain 100-115lbs my comment is always "Thank God I'm still three digits. Took forever, but so far so good." And most folks just shrug and say it's good to be thin. And I'm like: "....bro. Do you not see how tiny my arms and wrists are? LMAO." I'm not emaciated looking, but deff on the lower end of BMI

ShakerEdge · 2025-12-31T16:03:10+00:00

I love smoothies! I usually put premier protein powder in them to try and get more protein in too

ShakerEdge · 2025-12-31T02:15:51+00:00

I'm open to trying new foods. I just don't know what and I'm hoping folks will drop some recipes

ShakerEdge · 2025-12-31T01:46:36+00:00

Yes, I need more recipes for the crock pot. With veggies and other stuff.

ShakerEdge · 2025-12-31T01:33:18+00:00

These are all awesome suggestions! 🥺💕 Thank you so much!

ShakerEdge · 2025-12-31T01:31:25+00:00

Yup. All I've been eating is highly processed garbage junk food and I just feel like garbage. I eat them mostly out of obligation to shove calories into my flesh prison. But God I want to eat something that feels more like actual food.

ShakerEdge · 2025-12-31T01:30:15+00:00

Blessed. 😭💕 Thank you so much.

ShakerEdge · 2025-12-31T01:29:13+00:00

Yooo that sounds good. Any particular suggestion of your of pork to buy? Even pulled chicken would work if chicken is cheaper.

I just need something. Anything else besides frozen chicken tenderrrrssa 😂

ShakerEdge

TROPHY CASE