One thing I have learned after almost two decades of veterinary practice is that not everyone who expresses an opinion is willing to listen to an explanation.
Sometimes, no matter how much scientific evidence you present, no matter how carefully you explain veterinary medicine, and no matter how reasonable your arguments are, some people have already decided what they want to believe.
And you know what?
Sometimes, the most peaceful response is simply, “Opo, sige po.”
Not because you agree.
Not because they are correct.
But because you have finally realized that not every misconception deserves an argument.
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Take, for example, people who believe that dextrose powder, egg yolk, Yakult, and chicken liver can replace proper veterinary treatment.
You could spend an entire afternoon explaining the difference between supportive care and definitive treatment. You could discuss pharmacology, infectious diseases, fluid therapy, and the dangers of administering antibiotics without a diagnosis.
But what if the person has absolutely no intention of listening?
You cannot educate someone who has already decided that their personal experience is more reliable than your professional training.
And perhaps that is where we veterinarians need to learn an important lesson ourselves.
We do not have to correct every Facebook comment.
We do not have to defend our profession against every accusation.
We do not have to participate in every argument just because someone is confidently spreading misinformation.
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Of course, when misinformation places animals at risk, we have a professional responsibility to promote accurate information. But that does not mean we are obligated to engage personally with everyone who refuses to listen.
There is a difference between educating the public and exhausting yourself trying to win an argument.
Your veterinary license does not come with an obligation to argue with every stranger on the internet.
Sometimes, silence is not surrender.
Sometimes, silence is maturity.
And sometimes, protecting your peace is more productive than proving someone wrong.
You Are Entitled to Your Beliefs. And I Am Entitled to My Peace.
So, Lola Violeta, I respect your right to have an opinion.
I may disagree with your understanding of veterinary medicine, but I have no intention of spending my afternoon convincing you otherwise.
You are entitled to your beliefs.
And I am entitled to my peace.
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Because at this point in my career, I would rather spend my energy treating animals than arguing with people who have already made up their minds.
Not every statement needs a rebuttal.
Not every accusation deserves a response.
And certainly, not every battle is worth fighting.
Sometimes, the wisest thing a veterinarian can say is absolutely nothing.
Sharing this helps others understand what it really means to be a vet. Like and follow if we’re with us.
Dr. Geoff Carullo is a Fellow and the current President of the Philippine College of Canine Practitioners.
