Steven Albritton: Adopting Baxter

After earning his bachelor’s degree, Steven Albritton decided to adopt a dog. It was the first pet he owned without Mom and Dad around to help. The young man went to a local animal shelter and looked at all of the adult dogs. Baxter, a Beagle, caught his eye immediately.

While all the other dogs were barking and jumping, Baxter was silent. The skinny and shy canine was huddled in the back corner of his kennel. He looked scared, frightened and nervous in his new surroundings. It was obvious the dog had experienced something traumatic.

The shelter did know much about Baxter’s history. He was found, covered in fleas and ticks, in an abandoned building. A few bits of food were scattered near an empty water bowl. It was unclear how long Baxter was alone in the building. Average temperatures were above 90 most days that summer.

A neighbor tipped off animal control when she heard barking. Now, the sad-looking pup would not bark a woof while in the kennel. And that’s why Veterinarian Steven Albritton knew without a doubt that Baxter was the dog for him. He wanted to show Baxter that love and care that somebody else had obviously failed to provide. Thirty minutes later, Baxter was snoozing in the vet’s backseat, starting a new life.

Steven Albritton: Saying goodbye to Baxter

Baxter was around five years old when Albritton adopted him. The pup lived another six years before being diagnosed with cancer. The cancer ate away at Baxter slowly. The professional veterinarian held on as long as he could before making that dreadful decision. Letting go of Baxter was the toughest decision he ever made.

For most people, putting a loved pet down is an emotional and gut-wrenching decision. However, it is easier when you consider a few things. The veterinarian urges pet owners to think about the pet’s quality of life. Is the pet in constant pain? Is the pet having issues going to the bathroom? Does the pet seem dazed and confused?

Steven Albritton encourages pet owners to talk to him before making a final decision. Veterinarian Steven Albritton goes over the euthanasia procedure with owners. Animal hospital staff members, including Dr. Steven Albritton, are present for the procedure. They offer support during one of the most difficult times of a pet owner’s life.