Airports are already a test of patience—long lines, delayed flights, and the endless wait at baggage claim. But at the recent PAHA Convention, Zoetis unintentionally added a new twist to the travel story of many veterinarians.
As part of the event, Zoetis generously gave out the same bright orange branded bags to participants. Of course, everyone thought it was a brilliant idea to use them as carry-ons or extra luggage space for the flight home. Convenient, uniform, and sturdy—what could go wrong?
The answer came at the airport conveyor belt.
One by one, identical orange Zoetis bags rolled out. Excitement quickly turned to confusion as vets realized the challenge: which bag was mine? Suddenly, the baggage claim area turned into an unplanned reunion—colleagues laughing, double-checking, and comparing luggage tags. Some even unzipped their bags just to make sure they weren’t bringing home someone else’s conference materials (or dirty laundry).
What could have been a stressful mix-up turned into a lighthearted moment that capped off the event with laughter. It showed how even small inconveniences can bring people closer—reminding us that the veterinary community is not just about science and medicine, but also about camaraderie and shared stories.
So next time you’re thinking of using that freebie conference bag as your main luggage, maybe add a ribbon, a tag, or even a sticker. It saves you the hassle—and the comedy—of almost swapping clothes with your fellow vet at the carousel.
Dr. Geoff Carullo is a Fellow and the current President of the Philippine College of Canine Practitioners.
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