This website is intended as a comprehensive professional history. A condensed resume is available upon request.

 

Veterinary Assistant – Willamette Dog & Cat Hospital
1990 – [End Year]

 

After beginning studies in veterinary technology, I transitioned to a hands-on role at Willamette Dog and Cat Hospital to gain practical experience in animal care and clinical operations. This position allowed me to work directly with animals, support medical procedures, and develop both technical and interpersonal skills.

 

Responsibilities & Skills:

Assisted with animal restraint and preparation for medical treatments and procedures

Supported veterinary staff during surgeries, dental cleanings, and lab work

Learned to perform basic radiology and assist with reading x-rays

Provided grooming, flea baths, and general hygiene care for animals

Spent significant time comforting and calming anxious or frightened animals

Performed routine cleaning and sanitation to maintain hospital hygiene

Gained early experience with basic office tasks and client interactions

 

Key Takeaways:
This role provided invaluable experience in empathy, resilience, and hands-on veterinary care. I learned to handle difficult and emotional situations with compassion while developing practical skills across multiple areas of a veterinary practice.

 

Gonzo: The Little Fearful Dog

 

During my time at Willamette Dog & Cat Hospital, there was a tiny Chihuahua-mix named Gonzo who regularly came in for boarding. He was terrified of people and would hide in the back of his crate, growling or snapping if anyone tried to handle him. Most staff used a snare to manage him safely, which looked ridiculous for such a tiny dog.

I decided to try a different approach. Over several lunch periods, I coaxed him with treats through the bars of his cage. Gradually, he began to trust me, and eventually he became my little buddy. I carried him on my rounds, gave him company during lunch, and watched him slowly come out of his shell.

One day, his owner arrived for a boarding visit, and Gonzo ran straight to me, leaping into my lap. His owner was astonished, she had been trying to rehome him because of his fearfulness. She said it was good to see that he wasn't impossible to love and train.