Meet Dr. Sandler, This Month’s TopDoc Award Winner

This month, we’re thrilled to celebrate Dr. Sandler as our TopDoc Award recipient. This prestigious recognition honors veterinarians making a meaningful difference in their field and community. Dr. Sandler’s dedication to patient care, mentorship, and the veterinary profession exemplifies the spirit of this award. As part of this honor, Dr. Sandler has chosen CPV Rescue & Sanctuary to receive a donation.

In this Q&A, Dr. Sandler shares insights into his career, his approach to veterinary medicine, and advice for aspiring vets.

‍Can you tell us about your journey to becoming a veterinarian?

I’ve always known I wanted to be a veterinarian. As a kid, whenever someone asked what I wanted to be, my answer was always the same. My path took me from Central New York to the Caribbean, where I attended Ross University. It was there that I met Heather, my future wife and veterinary partner. Together, we returned to New York and, after gaining experience, opened our clinic, CNY Veterinary Medical Services.

‍What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day work?

I truly enjoy the medical side of our business. Whether it’s interacting with clients, diagnosing patients, or performing surgeries, I love the detective work involved in figuring out what’s wrong. Knowing we’re improving the lives of pets and their families keeps me going, even during tough times.

‍How has your role evolved over the years?

Since graduating in 2005, I’ve grown from being an associate veterinarian to a senior clinician, practice owner, and mentor for other vets and vet techs. It’s been rewarding to wear multiple hats and guide the next generation of veterinary professionals.

‍How do you feel you make the biggest impact on patients and their families?

I try to think of myself as an educator. I give the clients the information they need so that they can come to the best decisions possible. My goal is to ensure they feel confident and supported, whether the choices are straightforward or deeply challenging. I also share personal experiences to remind them they’re not alone, especially in moments that may feel overwhelming or hopeless.

‍How do you handle the emotional aspects of your job, especially in tough cases?

I let these cases shape me but not break me. They’re opportunities to grow stronger while staying compassionate. I also maintain my personal boundaries—I won’t perform euthanasia if I don’t feel it’s appropriate.

‍What advice would you give to someone considering a career in veterinary medicine?

This is a calling, not just a job. You have to love what you do because it can be emotionally and physically challenging. Be prepared to let each case mold you while maintaining your strength and compassion.

‍What’s the most rewarding part of working with animals?

There’s nothing quite like seeing a sick pet recover and witnessing the joy and gratitude from their families. Those moments are incredibly fulfilling.

‍Are there any misconceptions about veterinary care that you wish more people understood?

Veterinarians practice medicine, not magic. We can’t understand what animals are thinking or saying, nor can we wave a wand to instantly diagnose their ailments without proper tests. Like human doctors, we rely on diagnostics to uncover the root of the problem. Our tools include stethoscopes, otoscopes, and ophthalmoscopes, not wands or staffs.

‍Is there anything about your job that you think most people would find surprising?

If you are not in the field, you would be surprised by just the total number of hours that are worked. Even the hours that are not considered “on the clock,” like hours of doing research on cases, talking to other vets, going in for emergencies, staying late to finish notes, or making phone calls. And that doesn’t even include the hours we are not sleeping because we are up thinking about specific cases that are troubling.

How do you manage the responsibilities of running a practice while staying focused on patient care?

The focus has to be on the medicine and patient care first. As far as I’m concerned, the running of the practice comes second. We also have a practice manager who makes sure that main “business” activities are getting handled.

‍What do you think separates good vets from great vets?

Compassion and communication. Great vets connect with both the animals and their owners, ensuring everyone feels cared for and understood.

If you weren’t a veterinarian, what do you think you’d be doing instead?

I would probably try to be an author. If that didn’t work, I may be found welcoming people into Walmart, or living under an overpass. 

‍What are you watching/reading/listening to? Any recommendations?

‍I’m a big fan of Michael Connelly, David Rosenfelt, and Harlan Coben. As for watching, I just finished the series “Lady in the Lake”.

‍Why did you choose CPV Rescue & Sanctuary for the donation?

‍CPV Rescue & Sanctuary, based in Clinton, New York, is run by a private practice owner who dedicates her free time to rescuing cats. Her commitment to animal welfare, both professionally and personally, is inspiring. I can’t think of a more noble and deserving organization.

Dr. Sandler’s passion for his work and his community is evident in every aspect of his career. Congratulations again on this well-deserved recognition as our TopDoc Award recipient!