Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith turned relief work into her own business, founding Bad Dog Veterinary Relief Services out of Salt Lake City. An emergency and surgical specialist, she keeps a set of scrubs in her car at all times, ready to jump into a last minute surgical emergency even on days she is dressed for a client meeting. She built her relief practice around flexibility and staying answerable only to herself, and has stayed booked solid through the pandemic. This profile first ran on Relief Rover, the relief-vet community platform that joined Hound in 2023.

In Her Own Words

What inspired you to become a veterinarian?

"My interest in science, medicine, and, of course, love for animals, have shaped who I have become as a veterinarian."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

What states are you licensed in, or working to obtain licensure within?

"TX, not renewing and expired, plus UT and IL, and I am interested in WA."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

What roles have you had within the veterinary profession, and outside of it?

"Having been a full time emergency veterinarian, a rotating intern, and a surgical intern, I am currently the owner of my own relief veterinary business."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

What made you switch to relief practice?

"A desire for flexibility and the ability to be answerable to myself led me to venture into the relief work world."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

What are your favorite things about being a relief vet?

"I love having the ability to choose where and when I work, while also being able to maintain a safe distance from hospital politics. There is a freedom that comes with relief work. I like that I can choose my rates, choose how often I schedule myself, and choose to allow time for vacations. The flexibility increases my work-life balance."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

What are your least favorite things about being a relief vet?

"The stress of the unknown, not finding shifts until they are actually booked and scheduled."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

How do you feel that relief practice supports the veterinary profession as a whole?

"Relief work hugely supports the profession, especially in underserved areas such as my location, Salt Lake City, and especially during this pandemic, when a lot of people have adopted pets and need veterinary care. Working relief allows me to help fill the gap where the need arises."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

What supplies or equipment do you bring with you on the job?

"Everyone needs their stethoscope, their favorite pair of hemostats, and a good attitude."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

What do you look for in a practice when deciding to cover shifts for them?

"I look for quality medicine with a high standard of care, in a practice where the culture and atmosphere are nice and welcoming, with a good organizational flow."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

Have you picked up any unique practice tips while being a relief vet?

"I have developed a strong appreciation for excellent workflow and organization, especially with curbside service during COVID. My appreciation for primary care veterinarians has increased exponentially."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

What is your most memorable relief job?

"I am still early in the game, but jumping in last minute for urgent need shifts, or jumping in to help with surgical emergencies, is unforgettable."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

What advice would you give new relief vets, or someone thinking about becoming one?

"Market yourself well. Build a strong brand image by creating a clean and sophisticated website, business cards, and interpersonal skills. Set up in-person meetings with all potential clients and be well dressed, but keep scrubs in your car just in case. Most importantly, have a very strong contract to protect you from liability, in addition to obtaining not just malpractice insurance, but also business insurance and a good accountant."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

How has the global pandemic affected your relief practice?

"I am booked to the hilt. Tons of demand in my area."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

What are your hobbies and passions outside of work?

"I enjoy scuba diving, horse riding, tennis, all things fitness, and reading."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith

Anything else you'd like to share?

"Be open and nice everywhere. And contact me for any information or mentoring that I may be able to provide you."
Dr. Arshiya Sayeed-Smith