Showing Boundless Gratitude

January 16, 2025

Our network of veterinary hospitals continues to celebrate the incredible efforts of their team members through their Thankful Thursday messages. These notes of gratitude recognize the hard work and dedication that goes into caring for our beloved patients but also foster a supportive and positive work environment. Join us as we shine a light on the boundless gratitude that keeps our team strong and united. 

Sarah Ganeo from Armitage Animal Clinic, Newmarket, Ontario, wants to recognize Krystle Bernier, Regional Manager: "I have been with Vetcor just under a year now and it was a bit of a tricky transition and there is still a lot of things I am learning but I have appreciated Krystle's patience and availability to answer questions as I had them. Truthfully this shout out is long overdue but nonetheless I just want to say how thankful I am to have her support and encouragement. Thank you, Krystle! 

Suzanne McDonnell from Vista Pet Hospital, Portland, Oregon, wants to recognize Jocelyn Simpson, Kennel Assistant: "Big shout-out to Jocelyn! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have not gone unnoticed. You always go above and beyond, making thoughtful suggestions for improvements that truly make a difference. Thank you for your amazing contributions—we appreciate everything you do!” 

Amber Ingenluyff from Aloha Affordable Veterinary Services, Aiea, Hawaii, wants to recognize Kelly Dowdall-Garberson, Chief of Staff: "Her unwavering support during our transition with Vetcor!  Her guidance, overall patience, her commitment to the staff (including myself). COS like her that make all the difference. I'm grateful for her.” 

Cassie Gort from Village Veterinary Practice—Western Springs, Western Springs, Illinois, wants to recognize Caylee Kirk, Assistant/CVT Student: "Caylee is such a hard worker and a rockstar! She works full time and is a full-time CVT student. She is crushing it with blood draws!” 

Amber Ingenluyff from Aloha Affordable Veterinary Services, Aiea, Hawaii, wants to recognize Julie Merritt, Regional Manager: "She has been very supportive and understanding during our transition. Her willingness to help and remain positive and so bubbly is great!! I am thankful for her!! I cannot wait to continue working with her and the team.” 

Joan McCue from Veterinary Services of Aiken, Aiken, South Carolina, wants to recognize Dawn Conklin, IT Support: "Whenever I have an IT problem, Dawn ALWAYS has the solution, and she provides it quickly and efficiently.  I'm not sure how she does it with so many practices to support, but she is outstanding, and we always have a couple of laughs.” 

Brystol Sims from Family Pet Clinic of Redondo Beach, Redondo Beach, California, wants to recognize Kelly Davis, Regional Manager: "She always goes above and beyond to help everyone not just the hospitals she is over but all that she can. During this time with all the fires, she has been fully hands-on and helpful more than she normally is, which is a lot.” 

Sherry Thompson from County Line Animal Hospital, Ontario, New York, wants to recognize Lisa Pokorny, Team Lead Client Service: "Lisa has taken on the role of Team Lead and run with it. She has taken on so many responsibilities and has been an integral part of shaping our wonderful clinic culture.  

Sherry also wants to recognize Ashley Gelina, Client Service Representative: "Ashley does a huge workload out of site and behind the scenes. She works remotely, so we don't see her here in the office working, but we sure miss her when she's off. The media flow of e-mails, internal messages, Pet Desk communications, and a whole lot more is taken care of even before we walk in the door in the morning. Thank you, Ashley!” 

Michele Hickman from All Creature Features Animal Hospital, LaPorte, Indiana, wants to recognize Tiffani Lambert, Veterinary Assistant: "Tiffani is a natural born leader and always willing to help! She is always concerned about patient care and looks for ways to improve our protocols! She is one of our most reliable staff members and works really hard every day!” 

Michele also wants to recognize Angelica Orman and Tiffany Bright, Co-lead CSRs: "These ladies are such a blessing to me! They always go above and beyond for the clinic. They are happy to take on new responsibilities and help me with anything I have going on. Clients love them and they really make clients feel welcome! I am so thankful every day for them!!” 

Lastly Michele wants to recognize Elizabeth Morse, Inventory Manager, Veterinary Assistant: "Liz is truly a phenomenal staff member! She is a friend to all, is always willing to take on new tasks and offers ideas on ways to improve. She really does a great job with our inventory, not overstocking us, but always having what we need. I am blessed to call her a coworker and a friend.” 

Alannah Labesky the OPS team wants to recognize Shelly Jagers, Hospital Manager: "Shelly has been assisting me with training a new manager at one of our locations.  Shelly is always eager to help and is super positive. Thank you for your help! I appreciate you!” 

Dallas LaRose from the OPS team wants to recognize Rebecca Willis, Hospital Manager: "During snowy and icy storms, Rebecca spent the night at her hospital taking care of the precious pets that were boarding.  In addition to caring for pets, this helped keep other team members off the dangerous icy roads.  I'm thankful for Rebecca stepping up and living the Vetcor core value to "Provide Compassionate Care."  Thanks, Rebecca!” 

The Creatures Comforts Animal Hospital from Creature Comforts, Las Vegas, Nevada, wants to recognize Danielle Hardison, CSR: "Her clear and concise delivery of information and guidance during the staff meeting was remarkable.” 

Melanie Worman from Downtown Toronto Cat Clinic, Toronto, Ontario, wants to recognize Jeanette Peckford: "I would like to give a shout out to Jeanette for helping me train our new RVT!  Jeanette is a fantastic training buddy, and her assistance in warmly welcoming Deanna to the team and 'showing her the ropes' in the exam room is invaluable.  Thank you, Jeanette!” 

Brianna Viglietta from Land O’ Lakes Animal Hospital, Land O’ Lakes, Florida, wants to recognize Hannah, Mckenzie and Johna, Technicians, Katie, Receptionist, Milissa, Hospital Manager and the entire staff of LOLAH: "For all the obstacles this team has gone through over the past 8 months while under construction/remodel. These are amazing, resilient people who deserve to be recognized for their dedication to this hospital!” 

David Gagnon from Kaukauna Veterinary Clinic, Kaukauna, Wisconsin, wants to recognize Karen Mohler, Receptionist: "Karen is a very hard worker and is diligent about staying up to date with the latest news in veterinary medicine. Her intelligence and thirst for knowledge make her an excellent source of information when clients call with questions. Thanks for all you do, Karen!” 

Matthew Campbell from South Anderson Vet Clinic, South Anderson, Indiana, wants to recognize Sarah Brown, Hospital Manager: "We want to take a moment to recognize Sarah Brown for her exceptional dedication and hard work as a new hospital manager. Stepping into this role without a Chief of Staff, navigating significant staff turnover, and managing challenges with veterinary coverage is no easy task, but Sarah has handled it all with determination and grace.  Her unwavering commitment to her team and the hospital has truly impressed us, and her efforts are making a meaningful difference. Thank you, Sarah, for going above and beyond—your leadership and resilience inspire us all!” 

Katherine Angeli from Heritage Veterinary Hospital, Creve Coeur, Missouri, wants to recognize Dr. Anna Macke, Cailey Pyle, Andrea Tredway, Brenda Hua, Jill Jenkins, Abby Shirtz, Coral Davis, Amy Shook, Lynn Miller, Sam DeZelar, Casey Coleman, Jaime Godfrey, Dr. Anna Macke, Associate Veterinarian, Cailey Pyle, RVT, Veterinary Nursing Manager, Andrea Tredway, RVT, Veterinary Nurse/Surgical Coordinator, Brenda Hua RVT, Jill Jenkins, Veterinary Technician, Abby Shirtz CVA, Coral Davis (Inventory and Facilities Manager, Amy Shook, Client Service Representative, Lynn Miller, Client Service Representative, Sam DeZelar, Grooming Client Service Representative, Casey Coleman, Groomer, Jaime Godfrey, Groomer: "After the winter storm moved through our area, we ended up with a total of 9-12 inches of snow (plus ice!) affecting our ability to operate. A brave few members of our team were able to make it into the office so that we could offer to see a few urgent cases and catch up on communications from the day prior when we were not able to open at all. Their dedication and loyalty is truly inspirational!” 

Jerry Johnson from DuPont Veterinary Center, DuPont, Washington, wants to recognize Alicia Larson, Assistant Hospital Manager: "She has been doing amazing since learning the hospital manager position. When I leave in February/March. I know that what Dr. Baker and I have built here will be left in great hands. She has been diving in and learning anything and everything she can. She doesn't complain about what it is but seeks an understanding of why it's that way. She is the best person I know who can take this position, and I hope that one day she knows how much it means to us that she is going to be the manager when I leave. I have seen her grow so much. I am glad that one of these days she can fullfill her 5-year goal she set the day we interviewed her as taking my job.  

Jerry Johnson also wants to recognize Dr. Laura Payne, Chief of Staff: "I want to thank Laura for stepping up and taking the position of Chief of Staff. What Dr. Baker and I have built over the last 8 years is not something that we wanted to leave at all but at least we know when we do leave this clinic it will be left in great hands. Dr. Payne, I know you will be amazing. You are already an amazing doctor and I am glad to still call you a friend and colleague.” 

Amanda Mansfield from Fresh Pond Animal Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, wants to recognize Liz MacDonald, Hospital Manager Norwell Animal Hospital: "I got promoted to manager and she has helped me with transitioning into my roll and supported me through all the craziness. When I started, I received a new COS, new computer program conversion, and extremely short staffed. She was there to answer all my questions and show me how things are done. I couldn't have done it without her.” 

Destiny Rodriguez from Medina Veterinary Clinic, Medina, Ohio, wants to recognize Dr. Kayla Runals and Dr. Toni Longville: "I want to give a shoutout to BOTH our doctors and we entered our slow season they have been willing to travel and lend-a-hand at other hospitals when we haven't been able to fill up one or the others schedule. Even taking their day off to go and help has been such a blessing!” 

Margie Giles from All Animals Veterinary Hospital, Sanford, North Carolina, wants to recognize Megan Barnes, Veterinary Assistant: "I want to take a moment to give a massive thank you to Megan Barnes, one of our amazing veterinary assistants! Not only does Megan work full-time, but she’s also pursuing her dream of veterinary college while juggling college classes (currently microbiology – yikes!) and still manages to keep everything running smoothly at the clinic.  We know how busy things get, and in the chaos, Megan remains a calm and steady presence, especially in emergencies, often stepping up to lead the team. She’s always the first to come in early and the last to leave, making sure everything is taken care of.  When our regular person in charge of ordering and inventory went on maternity leave, Megan didn’t hesitate to step in, knowing it would be a huge challenge with no rewards, just a lot of back-ordered supplies and last-minute changes. Despite the pressures and challenges, she’s handled it all with grace, patience, and professionalism.  Megan, we know it hasn’t always been easy, and we might have rolled our eyes or sighed in frustration, but we want you to know how much we LOVE and appreciate everything you do! You are truly an indispensable part of our team, and we’re lucky to work with you every day. Thank you for all your hard work, dedication, and the positive attitude you bring to everything you do.” 

Margie also wants to recognize Deanna Lawhorn, Receptionist: "We want to recognize one of our amazing receptionists, Deanna.  Her warm smile, kindness, and dedication make every visit brighter for our clients and their pets.  Deanna, we are so grateful for all that you do and feel lucky to have you on our team!” 

Nicole Frank from the OPS team wants to recognize Jake Mervis, Vice President: " For leading the Operations Team and guiding us through Pricing. You provided light for us the whole way.” 

Rocky McGullion from Companion Animal Hospital of Waller, Waller, Texas, wants to recognize Stacey Siragusa, Technician: "I appreciate the guidance she provided to our relief vet in finding a simple fix to a chronic problem for a new client. Her experience and wisdom gave a solution to an overwhelmed client and provided the pet some relief.” 

Rocky McGullion also wants to recognize Paige Barnett, Lead Tech: "I am thankful that she and Bailey have taken the assignment of making sure our hospital is ready for our AAHA evaluation while I focus on our PIMS changeover. Their support helps me out a lot!” 

Lastly, Rocky wants to recognize Bailey Wampler, Lead Tech: "I am thankful that she and Paige have taken the assignment of making sure our hospital is ready for our AAHA evaluation while I focus on our PIMS changeover. Their support helps me out a lot!” 

Jamie Ibarra from Golden Oaks Veterinary Hospital, Rancho Cucamonga, California, wants to recognize Chloe Piwowar, Veterinary Assistant: "Chloe is always willing to help everyone and anyone. She does every job to her fullest potential. She will work any position that is needed from kennels to reception to assistant. Chloe always wants to learn more and is the first to ask to be trained in new things. Chloe is one of those employees that we would be lost without.” 

Danielle Gutierrez from Zippivet Arboretum, Austin, Texas, wants to recognize Eric Riojas, IT Senior Service Desk Technician: "Eric was super helpful and patient while helping me fix an issue with Microsoft Office authenticator. I appreciate his timely response.” 

Danielle also wants to recognize Dr. Audry Helburn: "Thank you, Dr. Helburn, for helping with all the end-of-year counting. I could not have completed it without you. You help keep a clear and level head. Together, we always find a way. Thanks for always being amazing.” 

Brittany Klopp from Central Animal Hospital, Petaluma, California, wants to recognize Jane Williams, Vet Assistant: "Jane is one of those employees anyone would be so lucky to have on their team and we are grateful she to be apart of our team! Jane is always going above and beyond, helping anyone, no matter the task. She is kind, funny and starts each day with a bubble infectious personality. Thank you Jane for all you do!”  

Jessica Daniels from the OPS team wants to recognize Dr. Raj Singh and Dr. Mario Dinucci, Chief of Staff Advisor: "I want to thank our veterinary leadership support, specifically Dr. Singh and Dr. Dinucci. They are great to work with and always provide insightful advice and feedback. They are pretty fun to work with as well! Thank you, Dr. Singh and Dr. Dinucci, for making Nor Cal great!” 

Jessica also wants to recognize Dr. Natalie Sundstrom, Chief of Staff: "I wanted to give a big shoutout to Dr. Sundstrom. She recently stepped into a new role at a new clinic and has made a major impact on the practice and culture. She has certainly stepped up to the leadership position and does not shy away from the difficult conversations. The team has really enjoyed her as well and that is evident walking into the clinic. Thank you, Dr. Natalie, for all you do at Best Friends! 

Jolene O'Brien from Berrien Veterinary Services, Baroda, Michigan, wants to recognize Kailey Rhyne, Vet Assistant: "Kailey has been such a wonderful addition to our practice.  She has a positive attitude, keeps herself busy when there is downtime, and offers to help out wherever there is a void in the schedule.  I appreciate how well she gets along with all of her coworkers, and she has great animal handling-skills.  She rocks!” 

Jessica Safani-Franko from Agoura Animal Clinic, Agoura Hills, California, wants to recognize the staff at Southern California Veterinary Hospital and especially Justine Graves, Hospital Manager: "Our hospital had the power shut off for 3 days during the fires in Los Angeles. I was so worried about our patients not being seen, and our staff missing out on wages. Justine was so helpful, and we were able to work together to have our doctor practice for a day at their hospital, and we were able to treat our patients! The entire staff at SoCal deserves recognition for their care, compassion, and hospitality. They welcomed us like we were part of their team. I'm so grateful to all of them, and especially to Justine as we worked out the logistics of practicing together. Thank you so much, friends! You rock!!!” 

The Creatures Comforts Animal Hospital team from Las Vegas, Nevada, wants to recognize Tiffany Scott, Client Service Supervisor: "Tiffany Scott, our Client Services Supervisor, whose positivity and commitment to growth shine brightly every day. Tiffany serves as an anchor for our front desk, inspiring her team to embrace open communication, stay focused on successful outcomes, and approach every challenge with a positive mindset.  Her dedication to supporting our team and fostering a culture of collaboration and growth makes a tremendous impact. Thank you, Tiffany, for your unwavering commitment to excellence and for being a source of inspiration for all!” 

Mandy Tinker from Aspen Springs Animal Hospital, Bowmanville, Ontario, Canada, wants to recognize Jennifer Michaud, Receptionist/ACA: "Jenn always arrives to work with a smile on her face and a song in her heart! She brings life and energy to the clinic and keeps it spotless. Her kind and gentle nature with animals, help them feel at ease in our clinic.! We appreciate you Jenn, thanks for being a part of our team!!” 

Bernadette Santos from Pittsburgh Spay and Vaccination Clinic, Verona, Pennsylvania wants to recognize Lisa Tharp, Hospital Manager: "Lisa has been with this clinic for 30+ years since before Vetcor stepped in in 2023. She continues to accomplish all of her tasks without complaint and with ample recognition. She has worked tirelessly to get this clinic on par with Vetcor standards. Lastly, she has helped to create a fun environment for her coworkers so that we can work all better together. And for that, I am grateful to Lisa.” 

Ashley Harrison-Jackson from Glen Burnie Animal Hospital, Glen Burnie, Maryland, wants to recognize Sarah Karls, Hospital Manager: "Sarah Karls is a true team player, comes to work early every day, always gives 110% and really sets a good precedent for the rest of our team. Happy to have the opportunity to work with her!!” 

Jennifer Harney from Cascade Pet Hospital, Shoreline, Washington, wants to recognize Nicole Taylor, Chief of Staff: "You are the best boss ever! I will follow you anywhere. I so enjoy working alongside you every day. You are a breath of fresh air as a manager/leader.” 

Mackenzie Hayes from Epping Road Veterinary Hospital, Exeter, New Hampshire, wants to recognize Madison Kiman, Kennel Assistant: "Madison is always looking into new ways to learn and how to grow within the vet field. Her smile and laughter are contagious, and she is always open to feedback, advice and collaborating with others. I am so proud of her recent journey of signing up with Penn Foster for their technician program and I know she will excel. Thank you for being you and bringing such an excellent attitude in each and every day.” 

Danielle Mercado from the OPS team wants to recognize Mazin Ahmed, IT Support: "Mazin has been an incredible asset, providing outstanding I.T. support to so many locations. We've officially concluded that he must be a cephalopod—he’s everywhere at once and handles everything with ease! Reliable, responsive, and always going above and beyond, we’re so lucky to have him on our team. Thank you, Mazin!” 

Spence King from the OPS team wants to recognize Emily Losee, Payroll Specialist: "I would like to give a heartfelt thank you to one of our amazing payroll specialists, Emily Losee.  Working with Emily is a joy - she's informative, kind, and genuinely cares about doing her best for our team.  She always takes the time to answer my questions thoroughly, ensuring I have the guidance I need.  She has the answers to the complicated payroll questions that arise.  She always responds quickly if not immediately to offer help. What I truly appreciate is her unwavering patience. Even when I come to her with last-minute requests or mistakes I need fixed, she remains calm and supportive, helping me navigate through the issues and get everything corrected in time.” 

Spence also wants to recognize Mark Allen, Director of Operations: "I would like to take a moment to express my forever gratitude to, Mark Allen, Director of Operations. I was fortunate enough to be given an opportunity by Mark a couple of years ago. Ever since having the privilege of working alongside Mark, he has been an exceptional mentor and leader.  Mark truly embodies our core value of "always do the right thing." He has a unique ability to offer support and guidance while always encouraging us to strive for excellence. Even when tough conversations are necessary, Mark approaches them with the sole intention of helping us grow and improve.  One of the qualities I admire most about Mark is his quiet strength. He is always quick to respond and offer assistance, ensuring that we never feel alone in our challenges. His dedication to our team's success is truly inspiring.  I have learned so much from Mark, and words cannot fully express my gratitude for his unwavering support, mentorship, and guidance.”