Tayla Grace packed six different internships into her final year of veterinary technology school, rotating through emergency and critical care, exotic animal medicine, a farm animal sanctuary, and general practice before she ever picked a lane. The pandemic is actually what introduced her to relief work, when the surge in pet ownership and staffing shortages opened the door. Now based in New England, she says the freedom to build her own schedule is what keeps her there. This profile first ran on Relief Rover, the relief-vet community platform that joined Hound in 2023.

In Her Own Words

What inspired you to become a veterinary technician?

"I've always known I wanted to work with animals since I was a kid. I can't think of one specific moment that inspired me to become a veterinary nurse, but I do know that my dogs influenced my decision a lot. I became fascinated with animal care which led to my interest in veterinary medicine."
Tayla Grace

What roles have you had within the veterinary profession, and outside of it?

"I went to a four year school to study veterinary technology. During my last year, I had the opportunity to experience six different internships. I chose two in Emergency and Critical Care, two in exotic animal care, one in large animal which I chose to do at a farm animal sanctuary, and one in general practice."
Tayla Grace

What made you switch to relief practice?

"Relief practice gives you the freedom to choose your own schedule. It gives you more autonomy in your career, and above all it gives you a work life balance."
Tayla Grace

How do you feel that relief practice supports the veterinary profession as a whole?

"I think relief work is great for the veterinary profession. Working full time in the veterinary field is a lot, mentally, emotionally, and physically. We all need a break. Relief practice supports our veterinary professionals on both sides of it, giving full time nurses a break when they need it."
Tayla Grace

What are your favorite things about being a relief tech?

"My favorite thing about being a relief nurse is the freedom I have to choose my own schedule."
Tayla Grace

What are your least favorite things about being a relief tech?

"My least favorite thing about being a relief nurse is starting at a new place and learning the flow of the hospital and staff. It is always hard to start something new, especially with people that already have established relationships. You just must stay confident!"
Tayla Grace

What do you look for in a practice when deciding to cover shifts for them?

"I look for responsive employers, great leadership, and shift differentials are always a plus!"
Tayla Grace

Do word of mouth observations or online reviews factor into your decision to cover shifts?

"Yes."
Tayla Grace

What advice would you give someone thinking about becoming a relief tech?

"Go for it! It is definitely worth it. I am so pleased with my decision to become a relief nurse. If you try a hospital that doesn't feel like a great fit for you, guess what? You don't have to be stuck there. If you find a hospital you absolutely love, guess what? You can pick up more shifts there!"
Tayla Grace

How has the global pandemic affected your relief work?

"The pandemic actually introduced me to relief work. With the increase in pets and emergency room overloads and the shortage of veterinary professionals, there has been a huge need for relief work."
Tayla Grace

What states do you currently work in, and are there others in your sights?

"I work within New England."
Tayla Grace

Aside from English, what languages do you speak?

"I only speak English."
Tayla Grace

What are your hobbies and passions outside of work?

"I love to spend time with family, explore new places, and go on hikes!"
Tayla Grace

Anything else you'd like to share?

"If you have children or are planning to have children, relief work is a great option. It gives you the power to choose when you work and gives you the time to take care of your family!"
Tayla Grace