Thankful Thursday: Gratitude in Full Bloom

April 17, 2025

Our team takes the time to express gratitude for each other's efforts, creating a supportive and positive environment. We are proud of our culture which promotes recognition and encouragement, take a look at our latest Thankful Thursday notes. 

Destiny Rodriguez from Medina Veterinary Clinic, Medina, Ohio, wants to recognize Mallerie Jones, Receptionist: "Mallerie has been such a wonderful addition to our team. She had no experience in VetMed prior to coming to our clinic, since she's advanced her knowledge and is always willing to ask questions to better understand. She is always kind and thoughtful. Shout out to Mallerie!" 

Layla Amberger from Blair Animal Clinic & Klondike Kennels, West Lafayette, Indiana, wants to recognize Trey Thomas, Kennel Manager, Anthony Paligraf, Client Care Specialist, Dakota Russell, Veterinary Assistant: "We would like to send a shout out to Trey-our fantastic Kennel Manager for his leadership and commitment to make our kennel the best! We thank all of our kennel staff for their hard work over two busy spring breaks last month. Anthony, our client care specialist, has been incredibly helpful in training new staff and tackling projects we have needed to get done and now we are zipping through our to do list thanks to his help. And Dakota, our Veterinary Assistant, for her willingness to help train new staff without hesitation, setting our new staff up for success. We are proud of our entire team and it's a great feeling to work alongside such great individuals!" 

Danielle Gutierrez from Zippivet Arboretum, Austin, Texas, wants to recognize Sylvia Johnson, Payroll Associate aka Payroll Unicorn: "Sylvia always goes the extra mile. She has helped me through different payroll, Dayforce, onboarding, etc. things and I so appreciate how detailed she is. Sylvia knows her audience so well and even calls to make sure everyone is on the same page. I appreciate her greatly!" 

Sherry Thompson from County Line Animal Hospital, Ontario, New York, wants to recognize Bri DiSanto, CCS: "Bri provides the energy for our team. She is such a positive person!" 

Sherry Thompson also wants to recognize Mary Cole, LVT: "Mary had been here barely 60 days when one tech (me) was on vacation for a week, and our other technician became ill and was out most of that week. Mary kept it together and saved the day!" 

Melissa Fox-Terrill from Gateway Animal Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, wants to recognize Kathelyn Melendez, CSR: "Kat spent 2 whole days working with IT and our internet provider to get our computers and internet up and running.  I was on PTO and she handled it all.  I am truly thankful for her help." 

Marissa Lanouette from Ponemah Veterinary Hospital, Amherst, New Hampshire, wants to recognize Jenn Briggs, CVT: "For passing their VTNE!!" 

Kim Shifflett from Yellow Springs Veterinary Clinic, Frederick, Maryland, wants to recognize Dr. Karen Conlon, Veterinarian: "Dr Conlon came in at 9pm when my 15-yr old best friend collapsed. We did xrays and bloodwork to find out she has a large abdominal mass. She then came back in on her day off to perform a splenectomy for me! I can't thank you enough!" 

Kayla Donovan from the OPS team wants to recognize Lynsey Mohr, Hospital Manager at Rehoboth Beach Animal Hospital: "I am beyond grateful for my hospital manager, Lynsey! She has gone above and beyond to support me as I step into my role as a regional manager, all while helping train new hospital managers along the way. Her leadership skills are truly inspiring, and I’m constantly in awe of her ability to coach, guide, and uplift those around her.  Lynsey, your dedication, support, and passion do not go unnoticed. Thank you for everything you do—you make such a difference every single day!" 

Rocky McGullion from Companion Animal Hospital of Waller, Waller, Texas, wants to recognize Ashlee Maddox, Technician: "She has been a great addition to the team here recently and has been able to jump in and be extremely useful. I am grateful that she came with knowledge of EzyVet and has been able to help me train staff on the in's and out's of the new PIMS." 

Rocky also wants to recognize Evalyn Delacruz, Kennel Technician: "Ever since she has stepped through our door, she has been busy doing something. She is always prepared to handle anything thrown at her and tackles it head on! She is a real go-getter and I can see her going far in whatever she puts her mind to." 

April Van Horn from Stratford Hills Veterinary Center, Richmond, Virginia, wants to recognize Emily Haddaway, Veterinary Assistant (soon to be LVT!): "Emily works harder than any person I've ever worked with. She cares deeply for her chosen profession, and it shows every day in how she approaches her work.  She has been working tirelessly to earn her License, and I am certain she will pass her board exam in a few months. I would like her to know that I am thankful every day for her hard work, perseverance, and dedication, and it has been a joy to be able to watch her evolve to where she is today." 

Eric Detrick from Always Compassionate Veterinary Care, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, wants to recognize Cathie Scudiero, Lead CCS: "A huge shout out to Cathie Scudiero! Cathie always goes above and beyond for me and the staff. She takes on new assignments with a positive attitude and a smile. I can't thank her enough for all she does for the hospital." 

Eric Detrick also wants to recognize Jennifer Mull, Technician: "I would like to recognize Jennifer Mull for her positivity and kind nature. She has taken transferred staff under her wing and has made them feel welcomed to the ACVC team. Thank you for your bright light and all you do!" 

Bailey Chipp from Willow Park Animal Clinic, Calgary, Alberta, Canada wants to recognize Cheryl McGregor, Veterinary Assistant: "Cheryl is always there is lend a hand and help wherever needed, from the back assisting the techs and doctors to even the front end at reception! She always has a smile on her face and is so loving and kind to every patient that walks into the door! Thank you, Cheryl, for all your hard work, it doesn't go unnoticed!" 

Kelly McNeely from Heartland Niagara Animal Hospital, Niagara Fals, Ontario, wants to recognize Grace Doucette, RVT: "Grace has been such a lifesaver! She came over from a sister clinic to help us cover a maternity leave, and it's been such a treat to have her! Grace has a great positive attitude, she's wonderful with staff, patients, and coworkers, and she's an awesome RVT. Thank you, Grace, for helping us out and for being such an excellent addition to the team!" 

Ashley Harrison-Jackson from Glen Burnie Animal Hospital, Glen Burnie, Maryland, wants to recognize Olivia Brown, Veterinary Assistant: "I would like to acknowledge and recognize Olivia for all of her hard work and dedication to our hospital. She comes to work, shares the load, is such a team player and is always coming up with such great ideas for staff outings and ways to develop the hospital and keep clients engaged with our education initiatives! So glad to have her on my team! :)" 

Bianca Briga from New Paltz Animal Hospital, New Paltz, New York, wants to recognize Ashlee Houghtaling, Veterinary Assistant: "Ashlee is the most helpful in all ways. Will go from answering phones, to jumping in appointments, to helping fix something that broke. Her passion for animals and for this job shines through every day." 

Sarah Stoppleworth from Cat Care Clinic, Indianapolis, Indiana, wants to recognize Abigail Skinner, Lead Technician: "Abby is an amazing technician. She is patient and kind with both clients and patients. She is a calming force in an often stormy industry." 

Sarah also wants to recognize Toni Schmitt, Client Support Specialist: "Toni is the smiling face and voice that brightens our clients' day. She is the maestro to our clinic's symphony of amazing client and patient care." 

Lastly, Sarah wants to recognize Michelle Stanton, Client Care Specialist: "Michelle is pure awesome-sauce, our clients absolutely love her. She brings professional confidence to the job that makes people feel cared for and valued." 

Gina Harrison from Bright Eyes & Bushy Tails Veterinary Hospital, Iowa City, Iowa, wants to recognize Lauren Caris, Lead Receptionist: "Lauren has been training receptionists for the last 6 months.  And even a couple of those receptionists have not worked out she has done and amazing job and kept her chin up and smiling.  She is proud of her work and works to make reception top notch and she works hard to make this happen.  We are so proud of Lauren for what she does and for what she has made reception.  Thank you, Lauren!! Keep up the good work!!" 

Margie Giles from Sanford Animal Hospital, Sanford, North Carolina, wants to recognize Amy Douglas, Lead Receptionist: "A HUGE shout out and a BIG thank you to Amy Douglas, Lead Receptionist.  We are transitioning to another software and it has been an enormous task for us so far.  Amy has had to handle everything for me because my time is split between 2 clinics.  I will never be able to thank her enough for taking this on.  Amy has always been a rockstar and this is just another reason why." 

Margie Giles also wants to recognize Bethany Tedder, RVT: "A big thank you and tons of gratitude to Bethany!  She is not only a wonderful RVT but an amazing person who is full of commitment and passion for our patients and their owners.  Bethany is also an All-Star when it comes to documentation and charting!  We are so grateful to have her as a member of our team!" 

Maria Kenny from All Animals Veterinary Hospital, Sanford, North Carolina, wants to recognize Margie Giles, Hospital Manager: "I want to take a moment this Thankful Thursday to express my sincere appreciation for Margie Giles, our amazing Hospital Manager. Margie does an incredible job juggling the responsibilities of managing not one, but two very busy veterinary practices in NC. She splits her time between our clinic and another, giving her all to both places in just two days a week at either practice. What truly sets Margie apart is her unwavering patience and kindness. She consistently puts the needs of the business and our team ahead of her own, handling every situation with grace and a calm demeanor. No matter how chaotic things get, Margie remains a steady presence, making sure everything runs smoothly and that my needs, as well as the needs of the clinic, are met without hesitation. I can honestly say that I don’t envy the weight of her responsibilities, but I am so incredibly grateful to have the privilege of working alongside her. Margie, your dedication and work ethic are unmatched, and I’m thankful every day for the opportunity to work with you. Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and you make a difference in so many lives. Thank you for all that you do! With gratitude, Dr Maria Kenny & all the staff at All Animals Veterinary Hospital." 

Mandy Tinker from Aspen Springs Animal Hospital, Bowmanville, Ontario, Canada, Province of Ontario, wants to recognize Nikki Hinz, Client Care Representative: "Nikki has been with us just over 3 months now but has blending in with our current staff quite well. She is well organized and manages her time well. She likes to keep busy and help out where she can. Thanks Nikki, we appreciate you!" 

Shanna Decker from Killewald Small Animal Hospital, Amherst, New York, wants to recognize Fran Wheat, CCS: "Fran has helped out at my hospital for two extended periods without a hospital manager.  She helped remotely to keep things running smoothly at the clinic by processing payroll, managing invoices, and addressing concerns with the team.  Her help allowed me to take care of my patients better and alleviate a lot of extra responsibilities that would take away from that. I can't thank her enough." 

Jessica Daniels from Petaluma Veterinary Hospital, Petaluma, California, wants to recognize Jen Shade, Hospital Manager, and Dr. Angie Smith, Chief of Staff: "I wanted to give a shout out to Dr. Smith and Jen at Petaluma Veterinary Hospital! They are great partners and eager to find talent for their hospital. They often volunteer to participate in new grad/student events at UC Davis in an effort to recruit new grads to their hospital. I am confident their hard work will pay off. Thank you, Dr. Smith and Jen!!" 

Melanie Worman from Downtown Toronto Cat Clinic, Toronto, Ontario, wants to recognize Dr. Mayra Gonzalez, DVM: "Thank you Dr. Gonzalez for helping out and covering extra shifts when another of our doctors was away attending to a family emergency.  Also thank you to Marty at Spadina AH for making the changes that allowed Dr. G to cover the shifts here!" 

Matthew Campbell from the OPS team wants to recognize Amanda Marchesseault, Hospital Manager: "I want to extend a huge thank you to Amanda for her exceptional dedication and leadership. She has gone above and beyond by stepping in to manage a second veterinary clinic, ensuring continuity and support during a critical time. Her hard work, adaptability, and commitment have made a significant impact, and we are truly grateful for everything she’s done to support both teams." 

Lisa Tharp from Pittsburgh Spay & Vaccination Clinic, Verona, Pennsylvania, wants to recognize Summer Russell, IT Help Desk Agent: "Summer was amazingly helpful to us yesterday when we were having internet/phone connectivity problems!  She went out of her way to trouble-shoot the problem!  She was a huge help to me!  We were having one of those 'terrible Mondays' and she took over the problem so I could handle the rest of the Monday problems!  Thank you for going the extra mile!!" 

Ashley Cogovan from Killewald Small Animal Hospital, Amherst, New York, wants to recognize Dr. Shanna Decker, Chief of Staff: "Shout out to Dr. Decker for holding down the fort while her HM was on leave for 2 months. Thanks for keeping everything running smoothly!" 

Brittany Klopp from Central Animal Hospital, Petaluma, California, wants to recognize Ashley Asktin, Veterinarian: "Ashley has been such a huge help in so many areas of the hospital. She is my go-to for questions, feedback and has been an amazing partner with our Ezyvet transition! Thank you for all you do!" 

Danielle Mercado from the OPS team wants to recognize Lacretia Nichols, Hospital Manager: "I want to take a moment this Thankful Thursday to recognize Lacretia for the incredible work she’s been doing at Mountainstone Veterinary Hospital in Cleveland, TN. Stepping up after the departure of her Chief of Staff was no small feat, but she has handled the transition with strength, grace, and unwavering positivity. Lacretia has fully embraced her leadership role and has become an outstanding partner—I truly believe we make an amazing team.  She leads with intention, holds her team accountable when needed, and is actively cultivating a positive, respectful culture at the hospital. Her dedication and energy are felt every single day, and she truly deserves all the recognition that comes her way.  We see you, Lacretia—and we appreciate you more than words can say!" 

Jessica Spellacy from The Pet Doctors of Sherman Oaks, Sherman Oaks, California, wants to recognize Kat Bundalian, RVT, Karla Garcia, Veterinary Technician, and Bre David, CCS: "Big Thanks to Kat, Karla & Bre! A huge shoutout to Kat Bundalian, Karla Garcia, and Bre David for stepping in and helping cover extra shifts when things got a little hectic. You showed up, pitched in, and had our backs—and we seriously appreciate it!  Thanks for being the kind of teammates everyone can count on. You all rock!" 

Jessica Spellacy from The Pet Doctors of Sherman Oaks, Sherman Oaks, California, wants to recognize Ed Canavan, CCS: "Sunday Superhero: Ed Canavan. Big cheers to Ed Canavan, our resident Sunday Superhero, rock music enthusiast, and undercover poet! Ed’s been swooping in week after week lately to save our Sundays—keeping the vibes high, the patients happy, and somehow even making the water cooler, cooler.  Thanks for always stepping up, keeping it rockin’, and bringing your quiet superpowers to the team. We appreciate you more than a front-row ticket to Pearl Jam!" 

Jolene O'Brien from Berrien Vet, Baroda, Michigan, wants to recognize Jen Barz, Veterinary Assistant: "Jen shows so much compassion to clients and helps them through a lot of emotional situations at our clinic. She is always on time, offers to help others, and will even come in on a day off for a staff meeting. Thank you Jen!" 

Patricia Ibarra from Rockland Animal Hospital, Rockland, Maine, wants to recognize Dawn Conklin, IT Support: "I want to thank the entire Vetcor IT Team and to say ‘You all are appreciated!’ as they have a never-ending supply of issues to address, and a HUGE shoutout to Dawn Conklin. Dawn is one PAWSOME person! She is so knowledgeable about everything! She is personable and funny and makes me laugh when we work together on resolving issues. I appreciate you!"