Thankful Thursday: Change of Season but No Change in Appreciation!

March 21, 2024

March marks the change of the seasons but there is no change in the level of appreciation our team members have for each other. Our network of hospitals thrives because of the team effort put forth every day.

Chad Harris, DVM from Vet Leadership Team, Georgetown, Texas, wants to recognize Jennifer Weitzel, Director of Operations: "I've had the absolute pleasure of working with Jennifer on numerous projects over the years and am thrilled each and every time we get to partner up. She is the ultimate leader and truly wants everyone to thrive. From Innovative Solutions to OPS and everything in between, we are so lucky to have her!"

Dr. Harris also wants to recognize Jean Heppner, DVM COS of North Austin Animal Hospital and Lakeway Veterinary Clinic: "Dr. Heppner and I have been partners for almost my entire career with Vetcor. It has been phenomenal to be able to "grow up" with her and make significant differences in our roles. Jean has helped me lead numerous practices in different ways. She is the best of the best!"

Ashley Willis from Basin Run Animal Hospital, Colora, Maryland, wants to recognize the entire team: "I would like to give a huge shoutout to our entire team for pulling together the last few weeks and getting it done!  We have been down 2 full-time CSRs and everyone is helping so we can best serve our clients and patients.  Thank you to the techs for filling in up front,  checking out your own appointments, and doing tasks you normally would never volunteer for like going through histories and completing overdue calls.  Thank you to the doctors for taking phone calls when the lines are all ringing and there is one person out front.  Thank you to Kaitlyn R., our brand new part-time CSR, for not running away after the first crazy day and for jumping right in and trying your best.  And a huge thank you to Tanya, Sarah, and Szczerba for rearranging their schedules multiple times and working long days so we have at least one fully trained CSR on all shifts.  You are all amazing and I am thankful for each and every one of you!!"

Marianne Quigley from Cat Care, Rochester Hills, Michigan, wants to recognize Dr. Tamara Sloan: "Dr. Sloan is the heart and soul of Cat Care. She knows the patients, the hospital, and us inside and out! We could not function without her!"

Kelly Soreghen from Wright Animal Hospital, Des Plaines, Illinois, wants to recognize Virginia Florianowicz, Veterinary Assistant: "I am thanking Virginia because she is always the first one in and is always ready to work. She is a great team player and also wanted to say congratulations for getting into vet school."

Kim Fegan from Big Creek Pet Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio, wants to recognize Michelle Emigh, Renee Primrose, and Lindsay Mihu: "These 3 ladies are the supervisors of the medical, front desk, and kennel departments and they are AMAZING!  As a supervisor they have to deal with calloff's, any day-to-day turmoil in that department, making sure the policies and procedures are being followed, and making the staff schedule work, which can be extremely difficult at times.  They all do it with grace and professionalism. We are beyond lucky to have these individuals here at BCPH. Thank you, Michelle, Renee, and Lindsay for working so hard for our patients, clients, and for the staff."

Julie Hogue from Sherlock Bones Animal Hospital, Carmel, Indiana, wants to recognize Elizabeth (Lizzie) Benich, Veterinary Assistant: "Lizzie is someone who I can count on.  Not only is she a fantastic employee, but she's great with our clients, loves our patients, and is a wonderful artist.  She tackles everything that is asked of her and does such a great job, we are so lucky to have her!"

Susan from North Laurel Animal Hospital, Laurel, Maryland, wants to recognize Dawn Conklin and Sandy Birdsall, IT: "Amazing help with new server and computer installation. Both Dawn and Sandy provided excellent communication during the whole process and went above and beyond to get this project completed quickly. Thank you both for all your help!"

Nicole Frank from the OPS team wants to recognize Dr. Illana Yablonovich: "I want to thank my amazing COSA Dr. Yablonovich for always helping navigate our Region. You put your all into everything and it does not go unnoticed. You are a rock star."

Tina Carrara from Josey Ranch Pet Hospital, Carrollton, Texas, wants to recognize Kalani Starks, Veterinary Assistant: "Kalani has the best attitude!  She is always smiling, always positive.  Kalani is the first person to praise others for doing something well.  She is the tech who says "no worries, we got this" when we are down 3 techs for the day.  Kalani is an amazing single mom and I know things can be difficult for her but she never lets it get her down!"

Danielle Mercado from Leland Vet Clinic, Mableton, Georgia, wants to recognize Emily Tufan, Veterinary Assistant: "Everyone, me, the doctors, the staff; we are all so thankful for Emily. She has become a vital part of our team and we are beyond thankful she chose to join us last January of last year! She has learned and grown so much as a vet assistant and we all think she has a great future in vet med, and we are so glad to witness it!"

Talia Lucernoni from Valrico Animal Clinic, Valrico, Florida, wants to recognize Dr. Noel Berger: "Thank you so much for taking the time out of a busy day to do Lexie's abdominal ultrasound and for offering some recommendations for her care!"

Talia also wants to recognize DJ Palchus, Lead Technician: "DJ shows up at 110% every day and is always ready to do what's best for the hospital and her patients. I really respect her knowledge and experience and am grateful to have her lead our team's medical quality."

Kelly McNeely from Heartland Niagara Animal Hospital, Niagara Falls, Ontario, wants to recognize Crystina Gagnon, Veterinary Assistant: "Crystina is a wonderful support for the whole team, using her rockstar assistant skills to help the doctors, technicians, receptionists, assistants, and practice manager! She builds a special bond with our patients, and our clients always appreciate her guidance and warmth. Crystina always takes the lead and sets a high standard for our clinic. Thank you, Crystina, for all you do!"

Jessie Nelson from Sugarloaf Animal Hospital, Lawrenceville, Georgia, wants to recognize the entire team!: "We have been going through construction for over a year now and they have all been so wonderful and I have also been the only DVM for 4 months and they have been great putting up with me on tough days.  Thank you team for helping me and being so great with all the challenges!"

Gina Harrison from Bright Eyes & Bushy Tails Veterinary, Iowa City, Iowa, wants to recognize Dr. Debra Conant: "Dr. Conant is retiring at the end of March.  She has been practicing for 42 years and has been with us for 18 years.  She has been a great educator to clients and staff and is an amazing surgeon.  And she knows how to have fun with all of us.  She will be missed.  Happy retirement and enjoy it!! You deserve it!!!"

Krystle Bernier from the OPS team wants to recognize Kelly Savarino, Director of Business Development: "Kelly is such a pleasure to work with! She is doing such a wonderful job with growing the Canadian side of Vetcor! She has an outstanding work ethic, is dedicated, and is collaborative! I look forward to every Meet and Greet we do together! Thank you for being so great!"

Becky Hebert from Brackett Street Veterinary Clinic, Portland, Maine, wants to recognize Dawn Conklin, IT: "THANK YOU DAWN. You work so darn hard to keep things running smoothly. We appreciate your help with all of our Pet Desk chaos. You are our favorite IT wizard and we are so grateful for you. Love - the team at Brackett Street Vet"

Tina Green from Purrfect Care Feline Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, wants to recognize Liza Guess, COS: "Dr. Guess has been amazing during her transition to COS and I can't wait to be her partner in this next journey of ours, and continue to make our hospital one that employees love to come into every morning and brag about to their friends!  Dr. Guess, you are already doing an amazing job!"

Dr. Ashley Casida, COS from Sun Valley Hope Animal Hospital, Glendale, Arizona, wants to recognize Kayla Goldberg, Hospital Manager: "We have just passed our 1-year mark with Vetcor. But with all the craziness, Kayla shows up every day ready to work, with a positive attitude. She believes strongly in our mission, and it shows every day. The amount of work she has put in to get everything transitioned, while keeping our computers running, building standing, and staff always feeling appreciated has been astounding. She is always doing the little things (and big things) behind the scenes to keep this place going. We appreciate you so much, Kayla. Thank you for everything you do!"

Anna Childers Adair from Lake Station Pet Clinic, Lake Station, Indiana, wants to recognize Colleen Thompson, DVM: "Dr. Thompson does lend a hand for us. She has been so helpful, positive, and engaging to the staff and clients. We appreciate her patience, helpfulness, and always willing to jump in and help. LSPC staff thanks you!!"

Dena Meehan, DVM from Springfield Animal Hospital, Springfield, Vermont, wants to recognize Jade Loiselle, Technician: "Jade has taken on many roles in the hospital due to short staffing. She was the only afternoon technician for many months and had to help with all the appointments, workups, end of day procedures, and cleaning.  Jade also is the coordinator for specialists to come to the hospital.  Jade is also the OSHA coordinator.  I could not have continued to keep the practice open for appointments in the afternoons if Jade wasn't working."

Haylee Murks from Animal Care Center of Hays County, San Marcos, Texas, wants to recognize Dr. Chad Harris, Veterinary Leadership Team: "I would like to thank Dr. Chad Harris yet again for his never-ending kindness and immense help to our team! He has managed to visit quite a few times and every single time we manage to have an emergency surgery that he assists our doctors with. He is our doctor's biggest cheerleader and he brings a smile to everyone's face! We could not do these things without him!"

Haylee also wants to recognize Dr.Valerie Briell: "Dr.Briell is such a wonderful doctor! She has had to go two weeks as the only doctor at our practice and she has absolutely killed it! She handles everything with grace, no matter what it is! Thank you for being you Dr.Briell!"

Jolene O'Brien from Berrien Vet, Baroda, Michigan, wants to recognize Dr. Sara Lange: "Dr. Lange has just celebrated 3 years with our practice and I am so proud of how much she has grown here. She does a phenomenal job with all eye-related problems and she has excellent surgical skills as well.  And if anyone needs horse teeth floated, she is your vet!  Keep up the good work Dr Lange!"

Brittany Poulin from Main West Animal Hospital, Welland, Ontario, wants to recognize Jenn Haymes, RVT: "I wanted to give a big shout-out to Jenn!! Jenn has amazing technician skills and provides top-notch patient care. She is great at educating both our clients and her fellow team members. Jenn is a great team player and is always willing to help out in all areas of the clinic. Jenn is a very important part of the team and I appreciate all of her hard work."

Alannah Labesky from the OPS team wants to recognize Dr. Ramsdell, Carol & the team at Harts Run: "Dr. Ramsdell, Carol, and the entire staff at Harts Run Veterinary Hospital have been working so hard preparing for the addition of their new DVM who is joining in April.  Dr. Carlton is lucky to be joining such a great team!"

Brandy Anselmo from Creature Comforts Animal Hospital, Las Vegas, Nevada, wants to recognize Kailee Coll, Hospital Manager: "Thank you for always being there and willing to help me solve any issue that comes up, even on your days off. Your feedback and encouragement have helped me become a better leader. Your leadership has been invaluable to me, and I truly appreciate the opportunities you've provided for me to grow and develop in my role."

Kai Coll from Creature Comforts Animal Hospital, Las Vegas, Nevada, wants to recognize Halle Peter, Veterinary Assistant: "Our leadership team would like to thank Halle, whose presence never fails to uplift our team. Halle's positive attitude consistently brightens our days and fosters a better atmosphere within our hospital. Her dedication to her role goes beyond just executing tasks; she brings a genuine warmth and enthusiasm that spreads contagious smiles among us all. Thank you, Halle, for making every day brighter with your presence and positivity."

Kai also wants to recognize Dr. Kimberly Franco: "Our leadership team wants to express our gratitude to Dr. Kimberly Franco, whose unwavering dedication and exceptional skills make her an indispensable member of our team. Dr. Franco embodies excellence in everything she does, approaching each task with enthusiasm and a contagious smile that uplifts us all. Not only does she excel as a talented surgeon, but she also generously shares her knowledge, teaching and supporting her team members to help them grow professionally. Her ability to infuse humor into our work environment creates a sense of camaraderie and joy, making every day a little brighter. Beyond her technical expertise, Dr. Franco's genuine care and compassion for our clients are evident, as they consistently express their admiration and appreciation for her. Thank you, Dr. Franco, for your outstanding contributions and for being such an amazing asset to our team."

Kirby Jones from Animal Clinic of Grand Prairie, Grand Prairie, Texas, wants to recognize Meghan Fernandez, Regional Manager: "Meghan is my Regional Manager (aka my boss, or as I like to call her, my "super awesome boss lady"). She has been an amazing resource, support, and guide for me the past year when I've really been through some rough times at my current practice. I really appreciate how she always goes above and beyond for me, even though I know she probably does that too much for everyone and expends her energy way too much. She gives me great ideas and great feedback. She's challenged me when I've needed to be pushed in ways, and I've grown because of it. But also she's a great cheerleader when I need it, and she provides me with real resources. She reaches out to other leaders in the area if they have tools she thinks I could use, or she reaches into her toolbox of accumulated resources. She's been there for me when I needed to rant, or vent, or cry. On days when she knows I'm struggling, she will send me a little treat. It's so thoughtful and considerate of her. And I just really appreciate it, because I know her job is really hard. All of our jobs are hard. And I think leadership, positive leadership, is really important. And appreciation goes both ways. So thank you, Meghan! I am thankful for you."

Paulette Carr from Eastlake Village Vet Clinic, Chula Vista, California, wants to recognize Delilah Zumaya, Receptionist: "She has taken on the responsibility of running the front office by herself after we had to let a previous employee go and is doing a great job."

Alexa Demas from Ringwood Animal Hospital, Ringwood, New Jersey, wants to recognize Trish Servillo, CSR: "For over 17 years of commitment to Ringwood Animal Hospital and this community. A staple at our practice loved by all and a true MVP to handling the chaos of CSR duties despite all the challenges that come with it."

Jorge Pang from Montvale Animal Hospital, Montvale, New Jersey, wants to recognize Jen Blackton, Hospital Manager and Lead Technician: "Jen is amazing she is the lead tech of the practice and PM. She works all the time and makes this practice run smoothly. Without her, my job would be so much harder."

Jodi McDowell from Loyalhanna Veterinary Clinic, Stahlstown, Pennsylvania, wants to recognize Megan DiPerna, Hospital Manager at St. Francis Animal Hospital: "I want to thank Megan for coming to our clinic to help my team with dental radiographs. She was so kind and was a great teacher. My team feels so much more confident.  Thanks, Megan!"

Jennifer Lopez from Pasadena Pets Veterinary Hospital, Pasadena, California, wants to recognize the entire team!: "Since I joined the staff in October of 2023 the staff has worked really hard at overcoming some really challenging obstacles. They have happily worked while short-staffed, all while adjusting to new management and restructuring how the hospital flows. They have overcome so much and I am proud to be a part of their team!"

Raj Singh from Oakridge Veterinary Clinic, San Jose, California, wants to recognize his team at Oakridge Veterinary Clinic: "They made us the Best of Silicon Valley Veterinarian and Veterinary Clinic for the third year in a row!!! They are awesome. They love the clients and patients and what we do. They have fun."

Raj Singh from Oakridge Veterinary Clinic, San Jose, California, wants to recognize Shelly Turcotte, Area Manager: "Shelly loves to help us problem solve issues we face and encourages us to dream big!"

Christina Lazo from Balfour Animal Hospital, Fenwick, Ontario, wants to recognize Chrishon Gambarotto, RVT: "I want to send a big shout-out to Chrishon. You have grown so much as a Technician! Your confidence is amazing, and you have come so far. Thank you for everything you do!"

Larissa Sutter from Mt. Spokane Veterinary Hospital, Mead, Washington, wants to recognize Kelsey Jones, Veterinary Assistant and Pharmacy Technician: "Kelsey is an amazing employee! She goes above and beyond each and every day. She is so knowledgeable and efficient and is always willing to help and share her knowledge. Kelsey's first concern is for our clinic and our patients. We could not be more thankful to have her on our team!"

Greg Stecker from Lincoln Animal Hospital, Lincoln, Rhode Island, wants to recognize Nicole Desrosiers, Hospital Manager: "Nicole is the glue that keeps this hospital together...or is it she the oil that keeps it all running smoothly??  Somehow both? Either way, we are so fortunate to have such a knowledgeable, dedicated, hard-working, and caring person as our manager. Nicole does a difficult job so well, she makes it look easy, but I know how much she deals with on a day-to-day basis. Lincoln AH would be a much different place if she didn't come in with her big smile and silly antics every morning to keep us moving. Thanks, Nicole for all you do!"

Brittany Klopp from Central Animal Hospital, Petaluma, California, wants to recognize Dr. Laura Vyenielo: "Dr. Vyenielo started with us in the summer as a brand new grad and has excelled rapidly! She is kind, smart, and compassionate and you can tell she truly loves what she does. We are so lucky to have her on our team!"

Lynisa White-Mitchell from Kalamazoo Cat Hospital, Kalamazoo, Michigan, wants to recognize Vanesa Rivera, Procurement Coordinator: "Huge 'Thank you!!' for helping us to get digital dental X-ray as well as the install should not go unrecognized. The amount of things that you do behind the scenes for all of our hospitals is absolutely incredible, we would not be successful in doing our jobs without the support you provide."

Nicole Stavropoulos Scaletti from Linwood Animal Hospital, Lowell, Massachusetts, wants to recognize Janet Bolden, Hospital Manager: "For the patience she has in training me to take over as the new hospital manager. We've worked together many years and she has decided to become a stay-at-home mom. She knows the computer is not my strongest quality. She has been very helpful to me. I am going to truly miss her."