Embarking on a career path is often a journey of self-discovery, and for me, that path led directly to veterinary medicine. My decision to pursue this field ignited a passion within me, propelling my academic pursuits and fueling my hands-on experience. I eagerly enrolled in extra science courses and labs to fulfill prerequisites, dedicated countless hours to gaining practical skills in veterinary clinics, and diligently prepared for the GRE. After a year immersed in the daily operations of a small animal veterinary clinic as a technician, I took the exciting leap to the collaborative Veterinary program at Colorado State University/University of Alaska Fairbanks. My inherent love for adventure made the Alaskan chapter of my education an irresistible opportunity. Fairbanks became my home for the first two formative years of my veterinary journey, shared with nine classmates from Colorado.
It was during orientation in Alaska that fate intervened, and I met my husband at a rugby match. (To this day, the intricacies of rugby remain a charming mystery to me.) He was stationed at Fort Wainwright and had come to the university campus to participate in a tournament. Serendipitously, he had spent every Thanksgiving holiday in close proximity to my grandmother’s home, yet it took the unique setting of Alaska for our paths to finally cross. He playfully jokes about minoring in veterinary medicine, given his unwavering support and study assistance from our very first meeting. Our veterinary program offered invaluable hands-on learning, allowing us to work closely with experienced veterinarians both in classroom settings and in the field. I had the unique privilege of working with diverse species, including musk oxen, reindeer, and even the incredible canine athletes of the Iditarod.
Following my enriching second year in Alaska, and after welcoming two spirited Alaska huskies into my life, my husband, our dogs, and I embarked on a memorable road trip. Packed into my trusty Jeep, we drove through the scenic landscapes of Canada to rejoin my classmates in Fort Collins, Colorado, for the clinical phase of my veterinary education.
I officially graduated from veterinary school in 2020, albeit in a year marked by remote graduations. My professional journey then led me to Thrive Pet Healthcare, a general practice located in Santa Ana, California. There, I had the privilege of collaborating with an exceptional team, all dedicated to providing the highest standard of care for animals. In 2021, I furthered my expertise by earning my certification in veterinary medical acupuncture. This specialization ignited a deep passion within me for enhancing the comfort and well-being of senior pets, those beloved companions who are often simply described as “slowing down.” I realized the profound impact I could have on both animal and human lives by focusing on improving the quality of life for pets in their golden years. My initial draw to veterinary medicine stemmed from a genuine love for animals, a fascination with medicine, and a desire to connect with people. While human hospitals may not have been the right fit for me, working alongside pets and their devoted owners provides me with the daily inspiration and purpose I cherish. My aspiration is for each day to conclude with pets feeling secure and cared for, pet owners feeling heard and confident that their questions have been answered and their goals addressed, and my veterinary team feeling fulfilled and purposeful in their work.
Outside of my professional life at Alicia Pet Care Center (where I am incredibly excited to be a part of!), I treasure spending time outdoors with my family. Our shared activities range from hiking and camping to mountain biking, beach outings, or simply relaxing in our yard with our canine companions. Kenai, our energetic sled dog who prefers running free to being harnessed to a sled, lives up to her “double-digit dog” moniker – it takes at least ten miles to truly tire her out. Mishka, our Alaskan village dog, has wholeheartedly embraced the California lifestyle, discovering a love for swimming and capable of enjoying hours in the water. In addition to my outdoor pursuits, I also enjoy working out, experimenting in the kitchen with cooking (though I humbly admit I’m still developing my culinary skills), and tackling DIY home improvement projects.
Joining Alicia Pet Care Center and becoming part of such a dedicated and skilled team fills me with immense gratitude. My primary goal is to deliver the highest caliber of veterinary medicine and client communication. I am deeply committed to ensuring that pet owners feel genuinely heard and understood, and that their beloved pets feel loved, safe, and exceptionally well-cared for under our watch at Alicia Pet Care. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to meet you and your furry family members at Alicia Pet Care Center soon!
