By Mikkel Becker, CBCC-KA, KPA CTP, CDBC, CPDT-KA, CTC

“Celebrate good news!”

Recognizing good news and success, from the little triumphs to the unexplainable and miraculous, is essential and worth celebrating as a team, says Dr. Gregory K. Ogilvie, a renowned oncologist at Angel Care Cancer Center and Fear Free certified professional. Whether he is speaking at a veterinary conference or working with his own team members, he encourages people to step outside their comfort zone and find ways to express their joy.

For Dr. Ogilvie, the call to celebrate is a must for team morale, especially when working in a profession where you’re often dealing with hard things a lot of the time.

When cancer patients in care end their treatment after radiation or chemotherapy, Dr. Ogilvie and his staff come together as a group to celebrate the success alongside pets and their human families by throwing a graduation party.

The graduation serves to both acknowledge the veterinary team behind the care and to celebrate the clients who have put so much into their animal’s care.

“Over half the men and about three-quarters of women cry of tears of happiness and relief at graduation,” Dr. Ogilvie says. “Just as important are the staff members that shed a tear as well. Tears melt hearts. The dogs and cats just smile and munch.”

The celebrations both in the back of the hospital among team members and those shared alongside the clients serve to uphold the morale and mission for the entire team.

“Just as important are the staff members that shed a tear as well. Tears melt hearts. The dogs and cats just smile and munch.”

To witness the power of celebration, take a peek at the graduation of one lucky pooch, Gordon, as he celebrates his graduation from cancer care.