All My Children Wear Fur Coats had the unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet with Jan and Diane Pol at the 2022 Global Pet Expo. We met in the press room and recorded our visit under less-than-ideal conditions. It didn’t matter to me (and I hope it doesn’t matter to you) because Dr. Pol and Diane and both engaging and interesting people you wouldn’t want to have an opportunity to miss. I was pleased to have the chance to meet two people who have dedicated so much of their lives to the needs of their clients and their pets.
Most people know Dr. Pol and Diane from their reality television show on Nat Geo Wild called, the Incredible Dr. Pol. A camera crew follows Dr. Pol around during his 14-hour daily routine of caring for pets and livestock. The show premiered in 2011 and has had two seasons each year since for a total of 20 seasons! Dr. Pol credits his son, Charles, who is the series producer, for successfully pitching the show to National Geographic.
Dr. Pol and Diane were at Global Pet Expo, held in Orlando, Florida, each year for the purpose of debuting their new branded pet products. These include dental and grooming products, cat litter made from pine, pet home products and a line of Dr. Pol branded animal feeds.
Dr. Pol is an animal pioneer. He has worked for more than 50 years in veterinary medicine, starting in his garage in Michigan. He was raised the youngest of six children. Born in the Netherlands, he made his way to Weidman, Michigan. He has a practical, down-to-earth approach to veterinary medicine. Today, he has more than 25,000 clients. He told me he tries to keep his services affordable so that pets and pet parents can get the most affordable care.
Although Dr. Pol specializes in large farm animals like cows and horses, he also treats pigs, sheep, alpacas, goats, chickens and an occasional reindeer. He also has a very active small animal practice including dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, snakes, ferrets – you name, it and he has likely treated it.
In addition to his day job and television career, Dr. Pol is also an author and podcaster. You can read this book, Never Turn Your Back on an Angus Cow – My Life as a Country Vet or listen to the Incredible Dr. Polcast.
Thanks Dr. Pol and Diane, I had a great time. Next time I’m in Michigan, I’ll stop by.
