Dr. Renée Alsarraf is all about unconditional love

They say a dog will teach you unconditional love.

In the darkest moments, when the weight on our shoulders feels impossible to bear, the gentle nudge of a dog’s nose or wet kiss on the cheek is enough to remind us that yes, brighter days are coming.

Dr. Renée Alsarraf understands this extraordinary healing nature of dogs.

As a veterinary oncologist, she has spent more than two decades treating cancer in canines. Then, when she herself was diagnosed with cancer in the summer of 2018 (alongside her dog, Newtie) suddenly the words “healing,” “hope,” “positivity,” and especially “unconditional love” took on a whole new meaning.

Vet Candy is delighted to have had the opportunity to talk with Dr. Alsarraf about the power of the animal-human bond, her exciting book debut, and where she sees the world of veterinary medicine heading.

Without further ado…introducing, the amazing Dr. Renée Alsarraf!

Becoming the Author of SIT, STAY, HEAL: What Dogs Can Teach Us About Living Well

Writing a book is no small task.

Particularly when you have recently overcome something as monumental as cancer.

Yet that’s precisely what Dr. Renée decided to do!

No surprise there, since she credits persistence, organization, and sincerity for getting her to the point she’s at today. Hot off the press, her book titled SIT, STAY, HEAL: What Dogs Can Teach Us About Living Well is a captivating and heartwarming story for dog lovers far and wide.

When asked what career path she would have pursued (had veterinarian not been a perfect fit) Dr. Alsarraf shares, “I would be a writer! Or a teacher! And, on some level, I hope that my book actually covers both bases. I would absolutely love to write another book (so many topics floating around in my head). I also enjoy teaching and inspiring those who are interested in animals – from children to adolescents and adults.”

Now, this Michigan State University graduate adds another title to her many peer-reviewed journal articles and publications…HarperCollins author!

Dr. Renée’s story demonstrates to readers why canines are the perfect guides to help humans navigate traumatic and difficult experiences.

Staying “Soft” in a Tough Profession

Writing books is a recent endeavor for Renée.

Prior to this, she was busy in the vet med landscape doing things like establishing a Pet Loss Support Group, being the Director of Veterinary Cancer Services at Animal Emergency & Referral Associates in Northern New Jersey, creating four (yes, four!) different veterinary oncology practices, and working as a consultant for a national veterinary radiation therapy company and performing medical oncology consults. 

Like we said…she is a busy person!

Nevertheless, Dr. Alsarraf always makes time for her patients.

“In my senior year of veterinary school, a seasoned clinician pulled me aside to tell me that in time, I would learn to not let the occasional sad outcome or story affect me,” she explains. “He said I would toughen up. I was floored. That very moment, I took his “advice” and turned it around…I promised myself that I would alwaysfeel my feelings in dealing with the patients and their families. I would always sit beside them, not across from them, and have not only compassion but empathy.”

Indeed, not letting the world make us so “hard” we forget to show empathy can be challenging.

But luckily, there are wonderful vets like Dr. Renée to remind us.

Ways to Relax After a Stressful Day

Understandably, a veterinary oncologist’s job can be stressful. To clear her head after a long day, Dr. Renée Alsarraf enjoys a good (funny) sit-com. This a great way to detach and unwind.

“Additionally, I love spending time with my boxer, Dusty,” she says. “Taking her for a walk in the park, getting lost looking at the trees. I love listening to my son play piano.  And talking to my girlfriends – they are my lifeline to understanding, laughter, and support.”

Final Thoughts

With so much experience to share, Vet Candy is going to run – not walk – to our nearest bookstore! Don’t forget to get your copy of SIT, STAY, HEAL: What Dogs Can Teach Us About Living Well.

Thanks Dr. Alsarraf for opening up and letting us into your world.