Aloha Vet

Aloha Vet is an engaging yet heartwarming reality series that aired on the National Geographic Wild platform in 2015.

The series follows the life and work of Dr. Scott Sims, a charismatic and dedicated veterinarian with a heart as big as the Big Island of Hawaii, where he lived and operated his vet practice. Known on the island as the "Barefoot Vet" due to his preference for going shoeless while visiting patients, Dr. Sims would go the extra mile, literally and figuratively, to help animals in need.

The series starts in Kauai, Hawaii, where Dr. Sims ran his practice out of his offbeat clinic, the Pegasus Veterinary Clinic. It's not your typical vet's office. It's an old house-turned-animal clinic where Dr. Sims and his team operated. You might find anything from cats and dogs to turtles and chickens, not to mention a myriad of other exotic creatures.

What sets Aloha Vet apart from dozens of other veterinarian reality shows is the beautiful depiction of the Hawaiian lands, from the lush, tropical rainforests to the sublime ocean waters, and Dr. Sims’ unique approach to his practice, striving to work with the local ecosystem, embracing the Aloha spirit of kindness and compassion while dealing with the animals.

Each episode catalogues the dynamic and chaotic life and work of Dr. Sims - without any of the staged drama or artificial conflict one may find in some other reality shows. While navigating through the challenges and blessings of living in paradise, Dr. Sims would do whatever necessary to look after his patients. The means through which Dr. Sims reaches his patients adds to the charm of the show. He isn't secluded to his clinic only - he flies planes, pilots boats, and even treks through forests to make house calls across the islands.

Dr. Sims’ love and dedication to animals and his adaptability in the face of any health challenge was evident in each episode. He's shown operating on a goldfish, removing a tumour from a horse, and even doing a house call to assist a pet pig with an overgrown hoof. His wit and humor keep the show light-hearted while dealing with serious medical issues.

Aloha Vet also showcased an interesting supporting cast. The dynamic between Dr. Sims and his capable but always on-their-toes team, including Dia and Ella his veterinary assistants, adds a layer of drama and humor to the everyday challenges of the practice. These characters lend color to the show and often help Dr. Sims in performing various medical procedures, as well as providing comic relief with their unique aloha love for the vet profession.

The show isn't only about the care for domesticated animals. Hawaii is home to many unique species of wildlife, and Dr. Sims frequently catered to these inhabitants as well. From endangered birds, to wild goats and feral cats, the list was endless. The show presented a broad spectrum of the ecological diversity of Hawaii and the challenges many of its creatures face. By doing this, Aloha Vet offered viewers an insight into the medical and ethical issues related to veterinary sciences and wildlife conservation.

The series portrayed Dr. Sims as a true champion of animal health and welfare in Hawaii. His optimistic attitude and strong determination to understand and treat various animals depicted an inspiring passion for the profession. The show was full of beautiful stories that blend raw emotions, heartfelt care, and authentic vet scenarios against the stunning backdrop of Hawaii.

Despite the series ending after a single season due to Dr. Sims' untimely passing, he lives on in the show's episodes. His warm personality and tireless devotion to animal health resonate in each story.

Aloha Vet is more than just a series; it's a heartfelt journey through the life of an extraordinary vet who, even in the face of life-threatening situations, never stops smiling and helping animals in whatever way he can. It's an homage to an individual's passion and dedication for their vocation and love of animals. Dr. Scott Sims will indeed be remembered as someone who truly embodied the Aloha spirit.