Happy National Veterinary Technician Week!

Veterinary technicians are vital to the veterinary profession. They dedicate their nobel work to promoting animal welfare in environments ranging from clinical practice, shelters, the field or farm, the laboratory, academia and the industry. 

This week, all of us at Virbac are shining a light on a handful of veterinary technicians who are making an impact both in their workplaces and communities. These “vet techs,” as they’re commonly called in the industry, were nominated for special recognition by Virbac team members.

 

Vet Tech: Kim Miller
Clinic: Brockport Animal Hospital
Location: Brockport, NY

For those who know Kim Miller, it should come as no surprise that a fellow colleague nominated her, calling Kim’s dedication to her profession and clinic “beyond compare.” For years, Kim was an officer for the New York State Association of Veterinary Technicians, helping plan annual conferences and give direction to, at that point, a relatively new profession. Through the years, she moved from technician to practice management. As is the case at many veterinary clinics, the staff at Brockport Animal Hospital has found itself short-staffed, and even though Kim had hoped to cut down her hours, she is now helping “work the floor” to alleviate the heavy workload. She has also been instrumental in transitioning Brockport to new owners. Every year she organizes an elaborate barbecue with prizes, gifts and games, to recognize her team members. She gives of herself endlessly, they say.

 

Vet Tech: Aspen Schreiner, CVT
Clinic: Southeast Veterinary Oncology and Internal Medicine
Location: Jacksonville, FL

Aspen is a real MVP when it comes to early cancer detection and client education, says Virbac Senior Technical Services Veterinarian Dr. Lauren Johnson, who nominated Aspen. “She believes that quality medicine is created through continually expanding knowledge, compassion and client communication,” Dr. Johnson says. Aspen is an active member of the veterinary oncology community and tirelessly advocates for her colleagues when it comes to professional development. Dr. Johnson says Aspen is “a real trailblazer” in the world of veterinary oncology; Aspen currently serves as chairman of the Veterinary Cancer Society's first Technician Development Committee. Thank you for everything you do, Aspen!  

 

Vet Tech: Christina McMullen
Clinic: Bay-Porte Animal Hospital
Location: La Porte, Texas

Christina McMullen is recognized, first and foremost, for her “yes I can” attitude. She is often the first to jump in and help others without needing to be asked. She goes out of her way to make sure what needs to get done gets done, all the while keeping the clinic running smoothly and efficiently. Her drive, determination, work ethic and integrity are as consistent as they are unfailing. Her team loves and respects her and, beyond her co-workers, clients have a special connection with her. It’s hard not to: She always has a smile on her face! McMullen has also made a name for herself as a teacher and leader to her team and to the clinic’s student volunteers with whom she often shares her knowledge and experience. By encouraging those around her to grow, she, too, is constantly growing. 

 

 

Vet Tech: Jamie Rauscher, LVT
Clinic: Animal Hospital of Towne Lake
Location: Woodstock, GA

While many of the animal hospitals we know and love have small staffs, the animal hospital Jamie Rauscher manages is the direct opposite. Jamie is the Medical Manager of the Animal Hospital of Towne Lake, a medical facility with 11 doctors and more than 70 additional team members. As you can imagine, with a practice this size, multitasking is a skill with which she has become quite familiar. Jamie has an unyielding passion for her clients, and she’s made a name for herself as a champion of early cancer detection. In addition to her regular day-to-day responsibilities, she has played a significant role in moving the hospital into the world of after-hours emergency care. Her role as a leader extends beyond the hospital: This year, she’s President Elect for the National Association of Veterinary Technicians.  

 

Ever wonder how you can express your appreciation for the compassionate care of a veterinary technician in your life?

We have some ideas for you!

• Deliver a sweet treat or even provide lunch 
• Distribute gift cards
• Write a handwritten note 
• Digital praise via social media 
• Simply say “thank you” 

Please join us in celebrating these important team members during National Veterinary Technician Week - and every day! We truly appreciate them and all they do to enhance the health and quality of life of both animal and human species alike.