At Holiday Vet, we know that walking into a new clinic can feel like jumping onto a moving train. Being prepared—both mentally and materially—can help ensure you stay focused on what matters most: excellent patient care. Whether you’re new to relief work or a seasoned pro, here’s a tried-and-true list of essentials to keep in your “relief bag.”
1. Credentials on Hand
Keep a printed or digital folder with your veterinary license(s), DEA certificate, W-9, CE documentation, and any other important documents.
Pro Tip: Add a “Day-One Checklist” with quick-reference questions like, “Where’s the oxygen shut-off?” or “Who do I contact for controlled drug log-ins?”
2. Your Own Stethoscope (and Otoscope/Tips)
Familiarity matters. Using your own stethoscope improves consistency in exams. Bonus points if you carry spare otoscope cones or tips, which are often misplaced or mismatched.
3. Extra Scrubs or a Favorite Cap
Messy day? Coffee spill? Having a backup pair of scrubs in your car or bag saves the day. And don’t underestimate how memorable a fun scrub cap can be when building rapport with new teams.
4. Notebook, Clipboard, or Tablet
Track hospital nuances, anesthesia protocols, phone extensions, or tech names. This becomes your personal “relief field guide” over time—and makes rebooking at a clinic much smoother.
5. Sticky Notes or Label Maker
Help keep the team informed—flag important updates in charts, label medication syringes clearly, or leave polite follow-up notes for the next vet.
6. Portable Snacks and Hydration
You might not get a real lunch break. Pack shelf-stable snacks (think protein bars or almonds), electrolyte packets, and a refillable water bottle to stay energized.
7. Chargers and Battery Packs
Many of our vets use their phones for VIN, Plumb’s, or reference guides. A dead battery can leave you stuck. A compact battery pack and charger can be a quiet hero of your day.
8. Optional Tools: Specialized Equipment- Pulse Ox, Blood Pressure Monitor, etc.
While most hospitals provide this equipment, some relief vets prefer to bring their own portable pulse oximeter or Blood pressure monitor as many have specific nuances—especially in urgent care roles.
Final Thought: Relief Work Is a Skill—and a Craft
Your gear reflects your preparedness, professionalism, and confidence. What’s in your bag speaks volumes before you even see your first patient.
At Holiday Vet, we support our veterinarians with tools, resources, and personalized placements to help you thrive. Whether you’re on your first shift or your fiftieth, we’re proud to be part of your relief journey.
What’s your #1 relief tool or hack?
We’d love to hear from you! Email us at relief@holidayvet.com or tag us on social media with your favorite “Relief Bag Essentials.”