Your Veterinary Journey:

What sparked your initial interest in veterinary medicine? Was there a specific moment, person, or experience that solidified your path?

 My passion for veterinary medicine likely stems from my love of science, nature, and animals. There wasn’t a specific moment that sparked it, but from a young age, I was interested in environmental causes—especially endangered species. 

Describe your veterinary career path so far. What different roles have you held, and what lessons have you learned from each experience?

I graduated from Ross University in 2001 and have held many roles in veterinary medicine. I’ve worked as a general practitioner, relief vet, ER vet, shelter vet, and house call vet. My favorite roles have been making house calls and working in animal shelters. I ran a house (and boat) call practice in the Florida Keys for over 20 years, building meaningful relationships with pet owners and their families. Making house calls in Key West was always an adventure—one day, I’d love to write a book about the *Tails of a Key West House Call Vet*! Shelter medicine also holds a special place in my heart. I love educating pet owners, and I find the work incredibly rewarding. Currently, I do relief work at a Humane Society in Steamboat Springs, CO, and run a small house call practice called *Pampered Pet Home Vet*. 

What area of veterinary medicine are you most passionate about, and why? (e.g., specific species, type of practice, particular medical conditions)

I have a special interest in complementary medicine. In 2003, I completed physical therapy training at the Canine Rehab Institute and acupuncture training at Chi University. 

What made you decide to transition to relief work specifically? What were you hoping to gain or change?

I took my first relief job in 2003, back when there were very few resources to help me get started. I remember buying a relief vet manual—a three-ring binder—written by Dr. Carin A. Smith. Similar to house calls, I appreciate the freedom relief work gives me. It allows me to prioritize my family—I’ve never had to miss school events, and I can take long weekends to travel when my kids compete in sports. 

How has relief work shaped your perspective on the veterinary profession as a whole?

 Relief work has exposed me to a wide range of environments and techniques—things you can’t learn in a classroom. 

The Relief Vet Experience:

Can you share a particularly memorable or impactful experience you’ve had while working as a relief vet? What made it stand out?

I also did relief work at a wildlife center in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, which gave me the opportunity to work with species I would never have encountered in general practice. We repaired broken wings, treated toxicities, and managed all sorts of unique cases. I’ll never forget pulling pelican lice out of my hair on the drive home—yuck! But overall, I loved the experience. 

What are the biggest rewards and challenges you’ve encountered in relief practice?

 Being a relief vet gives me the freedom to travel and try new things. I enjoy the challenges because they push me out of my comfort zone. I can choose to work with unique species, and I’ve made some of my best friends through relief work. Of course, there are challenges too—sometimes you feel like an outsider, and you don’t get to form deep relationships with clients and their pets. 

What’s one surprising thing you’ve learned or discovered about yourself through relief work?

 I’ve learned that I’m an optimist and very adaptable. I’ve also realized that I enjoy the connections I make with people just as much as the ones I make with animals. 

What’s your “go-to” piece of advice for veterinarians considering or just starting out in relief work?

I truly believe relief work can provide a better quality of life. The salary can be comparable—or even better—without the long-term commitment. 

What are your non-negotiables when choosing relief shifts or practices to work with? What makes a practice a good (or bad) fit for you?

I want to work in an environment where I can be myself. I’m willing to compromise to an extent, but I also want to uphold my core values without walking on eggshells. 

What are three essential items you always bring with you on relief assignments, and why?

My stethoscope, coffee, and VIN membership! 

Beyond the Clinic:

You’re more than just a veterinarian! Tell us about your other passions, interests, or ventures outside of veterinary medicine. (e.g., side businesses, hobbies, creative pursuits)

Outside of work, I love hiking and skiing. I try to do Pilates or yoga every day. I enjoy traveling with my family, reading, cooking, and spending time with my dog. My side gig is working with *The Veterkin Society*, a veterinary buying club that provides resources and savings to vets practicing in unconventional roles. Before Veterkin, only hospitals were eligible for these perks—now, even relief vets can access them. 

How do you find balance between your veterinary work and your other interests?

I currently have a steady relief job three days a week at an animal shelter. The other two days are flexible—I might catch up on work, see house call patients, or decide to hit the slopes or go for a hike instead. 

What are some of your long-term professional or personal goals?

My goal is to continue developing and promoting the amazing *Veterkin Society*, ensuring vets have the tools they need to practice independently. I also love my relief job as a shelter vet and my small house call practice. 

If you could wave a magic wand and change one thing about the veterinary profession, what would it be?

 If I could change one thing in veterinary medicine, I’d make becoming a vet more affordable. Student loans keep getting more expensive, and with payment plan changes on the horizon, repayment is about to become even more burdensome.

‍

Looking for flexible shifts? Join Hound and start booking.

Want to connect with other relief vets? Come join the community.

Got a story to tell? We’d love to feature you.

‍