Getting to Know: Rachael!

March 14, 2017

We recently welcomed Rachael to our staff as a veterinary assistant. Please join us as we get to know her better, in her own words!

What made you decide to work at a veterinary clinic/why do you want to be a veterinarian?

“When I was five, the vet came to our farm in the middle of the night to help with lambing. The awe of that experience marked the beginning of my wanting to become a vet and has lead me where I am today. I adore all the creatures, and I feel honored to be able to advocate for, heal, and connect with animals on a daily basis.”

Where did you go to school/what year did you graduate?

“I received a BA in cultural anthropology with minors in women’s studies and global health from the University of Iowa. I graduated in 2014. I am currently doing prerequisites for veterinary school at St. Paul College.”

Do you have an area of special interest in veterinary medicine?

“Surgery, farm animals and wildlife, and holistic medicine.”

Tell us about your pets.

“Boris is a tenacious and whimsical longhaired silver tabby who enjoys sparkly balls and sparklers, champagne bubbles, bathtubs, and Taco Tuesday. A thrill-seeker and lover of speeds, on any given afternoon you can find him wrestling, playing King of the Cat Tower with his roommate cat pal, Panda, or simply racing down the hall to achieve his max speed.”

Tell us about your history with Grand Avenue Veterinary Center.

“I started shadowing [volunteering] at the clinic in Fall of 2015.”

What is your favorite form of exercise?

“Roller skating and running.”

What was your favorite food when you were a child?

“Watermelon and BLTs. That hasn’t changed.”

What chores do you hate doing?

“Lord grant me a dishwasher.”

What is your favorite time of the day/day of the week/month of the year?

“Summer, hands down. Everything is bursting open at the seams, the air is heavy, and the tomatoes, watermelons, and sweet corn are ripe.”

What sound do you love?

“Crickets”

If you could learn anything, what would it be?

“I’d want to perfect my whistling or learn flamenco dancing.”