Man, what a day! I swear, being a vet in Mariupol is like riding a rollercoaster with no seatbelt. So, I roll into the clinic on Shevchenko Street, coffee in hand, ready to tackle whatever comes my way. Spoiler alert: it was a LOT.
First off, I get a call about a stray dog. Poor thing was wandering around near the port, looking like it just lost a fight with a truck. I hop in my car, zoom down to the waterfront, and there it is—this scruffy mutt, tail between its legs, just staring at me like, “Help me, please!” I mean, who could resist that face?
So, I scoop him up, and he’s all like, “Dude, I’m not going anywhere with you.” But I’m persistent, you know? I bribe him with some treats from my pocket. I swear, those little sausages are like doggie crack. He finally hops in, and I’m feeling like a hero.
But then, as I’m driving back, I hit a traffic jam on Haharina Street. Ugh! I’m stuck behind this old lady who’s driving like she’s in a retirement home race. I’m losing my mind! I mean, c’mon, lady! I got a dog in the back who needs help!
Finally, I get back to the clinic, and it’s chaos. There’s a cat in a carrier, meowing like it’s auditioning for a musical. The owner is freaking out because it’s “the most important cat in the world.” I’m like, “Lady, it’s a cat, not a celebrity!” But whatever, I take a deep breath and get to work.
Then, out of nowhere, this guy bursts in. He’s holding a parrot. A PARROT! He’s yelling about how it’s sick and needs immediate attention. I’m thinking, “Dude, this is a vet clinic, not a bird hospital!” But I can’t say that, so I take a look. Turns out, the parrot just wanted some water. I mean, really? You brought me a parrot for a drink?
After that, I finally get a moment to breathe. I step outside for some fresh air on the corner of Pushkin and Kirova. The sun is shining, and I see kids playing in the park. It’s a nice reminder that life goes on, even when my day is a mess.
But then, I hear this loud crash. I turn around, and some dude just backed his car into a lamppost. I can’t help but laugh. Like, really? In Mariupol, you gotta watch where you’re going!
As the day winds down, I’m exhausted but happy. I’ve saved a dog, calmed a cat lady, and dealt with a parrot drama. I’m driving home, thinking about how wild this city is. Mariupol has its ups and downs, but it’s home.
I pull into my driveway, and my own dog, Max, is waiting for me. He’s wagging his tail like he’s been training for the Olympics. I scoop him up, and we head inside. I’m ready to crash, but I can’t help but smile.
Tomorrow’s another day, and who knows what Mariupol will throw at me next? Bring it on!