The Hidden 20% The Neurodivergent Vet: Dyslexia, High Stress Work & The Power of Pets
Oct 8, 2025
Rory Cowlum, known as Rory the Vet, is a veterinary surgeon, TV presenter, and dyslexia advocate. He shares how his dyslexia serves as a superpower in his career, discussing the challenges of high-pressure veterinary work and mental health issues in the field. Rory offers practical tips for neurodivergent learning and highlights the therapeutic role of pets in both human and animal well-being. He emphasizes the importance of empathy when delivering tough news and advocates for celebrating dyslexia to harness its strengths in the veterinary profession.
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Brain As Superpower
- Rory Cowlum views his neurodivergent brain as a superpower that shapes identity and drive.
- He emphasizes ongoing self-discovery and that experience and context continually reshape how the brain works.
Reduce Ocular Stress When Reading
- Try reducing ocular stress with colored filters, non-white paper and larger fonts when reading.
- Take regular breaks to avoid skipping words and mental overload during heavy reading sessions.
Small Environmental Tweaks Help Daily Energy
- Do modify workplace lighting, use non-white paper and yellow screen filters to reduce midday headaches and fatigue.
- Make small environmental changes to preserve cognitive energy across a long clinical day.