A Visionary in Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Shibu Sulaiman is not just a veterinarian; he is a pioneer who has redefined the profession with his passion, resilience, and groundbreaking contributions. From performing a teleguided cardiothoracic surgery on the world’s smallest puppy along with his Professors especially with Dr Sooryadas and team during the COVID-19 lockdown to running a 24-hour veterinary hospital, his journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Passion for Healing the Speechless
For Dr. Sulaiman, veterinary medicine is not just a career but a calling. His deep connection with animals and their silent suffering fuels his dedication to healing them. He believes that every pet has a unique way of communicating its pain and agony, and understanding this silent language has been the cornerstone of his success.
The Challenge of Building a Veterinary Business
Running a 24-hour veterinary hospital is not just about treating animals; it’s about sustaining a business that demands continuous dedication. Dr. Sulaiman has been managing his practice for over a decade, ensuring that his hospital remains a beacon of hope for pet owners. Balancing the responsibilities of being a passionate veterinarian and a business owner is no easy feat, but he has embraced the challenge with determination.
Breaking Stereotypes in an Asian Family
Coming from an Indian and Asian background, Dr. Sulaiman faced resistance when choosing veterinary medicine over human medicine. Convincing his family of his ambition was a battle, but his perseverance proved that passion and dedication can break societal norms. Today, he stands as a role model for aspiring veterinarians who struggle with similar challenges.
Overcoming Challenges as a Senior Surgeon
Currently working as a senior surgeon, Dr. Sulaiman thrives on challenges. With limited resources in the veterinary field, he has learned to innovate and maximize available tools to ensure the best outcomes for his patients. His ability to adapt and find solutions has been instrumental in saving countless lives.
The Absence of a Godfather in the Industry
Unlike many professionals who have mentors to guide them, Dr. Sulaiman carved his own path. If given the opportunity, he dreams of collaborating with Dr. Noel Fitzpatrick, a leading figure in veterinary science. His journey is a testament to self-motivation and resilience in a field that often goes unrecognized.
A Strong Support System at Home
After marriage, his wife, an aspiring veterinary nurse, became his biggest supporter. Her unwavering encouragement pushed him to expand his limits and redefine his professional boundaries. Having a partner who understands the demands of the field has played a crucial role in his growth.
Learning from Setbacks and Evolving
Like any professional, Dr. Sulaiman has faced setbacks. Early in his career, he struggled with the lack of resources and expected only the best tools to work with. Over time, he became more innovative, mastering DIY solutions for surgeries and pre-surgery preparations. His ability to adapt and find alternatives has been a game-changer in his practice.
Patience: A Key Virtue in Veterinary Medicine
Patience is a fundamental trait for veterinarians, both with their patients and pet owners. As a pet parent himself, Dr. Sulaiman understands the emotional attachment of owners and approaches each case with empathy. His ability to remain calm under pressure has been instrumental in performing complex surgeries successfully.
From Entrepreneur to Leader
Initially, Dr. Sulaiman aspired to be a veterinarian with strong entrepreneurial skills, believing that owning a successful veterinary business was the ultimate milestone. However, as he progressed, his perspective evolved. He now finds greater fulfillment in transforming the lives of his employees and creating a positive work environment. His new definition of success is empowering others to achieve their own milestones.
Leaving a Legacy in Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Sulaiman’s greatest legacy is the establishment of a 24-hour veterinary hospital, which has saved countless pet lives and provided comfort to pet parents. He hopes to be remembered as an inspiration to future generations of veterinarians, motivating them to pursue their dreams and make a lasting impact in the field.
The Future of Veterinary Science
As he continues his journey, Dr. Sulaiman is committed to developing key strategies that will empower the veterinary industry. His focus is on improving resources, training aspiring veterinarians, and ensuring that the profession gains the recognition it deserves. With his passion, resilience, and vision, he is set to shape the future of veterinary medicine for years to come. He works now with a great team in Hope Veterinary Clinic in Abduhabi. Do follow him on Instagram.
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