Where are you from and how long have you lived in Vancouver? I’m from Rural Manitoba and moved to Vancouver 5 years ago

Why did you choose to become an RVT/VA/CSR? I was searching for a job where I could be around animals and found Mountainside. I originally started as a VA but then discovered that I loved helping clients through what is usually a stressful time in their pet’s life.

What do you love most about being an RVT/VA/CSR? I love being able to put owners at ease when they walk in the doors. I also love taking photos of the pets staying overnight in hospital to send to owners

What advice would you give someone entering emergency veterinary medicine as an RVT/VA/CSR? And what skills are most important? Never forget to take care of yourself. The job can be tough and self care and mental health are so important.

Tell us about a special animal memory. I remember when we had a particularly hard case come in that was quite touch and go. We were able to stabilize the patient and send it to get specialty care. That same dog came back to visit us months later, running and jumping and living life to the fullest. It was so special to get to see it from start to finish.