MCC-Maple Woods Veterinary Technology

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MCC-Maple Woods Veterinary Technology Maple Woods Veterinary Technology is fully accredited by the AVMA since 1975 and offers a 2 year AAS in Veterinary Technology.

šŸ’™šŸ¾ **Passionate Heart, Fierce Dedication: The RVT Legacy Series** šŸ¾šŸ’™ā¤ļø **The week may be over. The appreciation never en...
10/26/2026

šŸ’™šŸ¾ **Passionate Heart, Fierce Dedication: The RVT Legacy Series** šŸ¾šŸ’™

ā¤ļø **The week may be over. The appreciation never ends.** ā¤ļø

Vet Tech Week gives us a special opportunity to celebrate the people who dedicate their lives to veterinary medicine, but the truth is that their impact deserves recognition all year long. And as we bring our *RVT Legacy Series* to a close, there are two people at the heart of our program whom we especially want to celebrate: **Natalie Watts and Joan Gorman**, our amazing RVT instructors at the Metropolitan Community Collegeā€“Maple Woods Veterinary Technology Program! šŸ©ŗšŸ¾

Today, we're also giving **Joan Gorman** her well-deserved moment in the spotlight. šŸ’™

A veterinary technology program is about so much more than lectures, labs, and learning clinical skills. It's about preparing students for the realities of a profession that asks so much of the heart ā€” caring for vulnerable patients, supporting worried pet owners, working through difficult days, and finding the strength to keep showing up for the animals who need us.

That future begins with the people willing to teach, guide, encourage, and lead. Joan, alongside Natalie, helps make that education possible for our students. Their work helps build the foundation our future veterinary technicians will carry with them into every clinic, every patient interaction, and every new challenge they face. šŸŽ“šŸ¶šŸ±

To Joan: šŸ’™ Thank you for the heart, patience, and dedication you pour into our program and the students who walk through its doors with dreams of making a difference. Teaching is about so much more than sharing knowledge ā€” it's about believing in students, encouraging them through the hard days, and helping them discover the veterinary professionals they are capable of becoming.

One day, our students will graduate and go on to comfort scared animals, support worried families, and change lives in ways they may not even realize yet. And a little piece of what they learned from you will go with them wherever their careers take them. šŸ¾

Thank you for helping shape not only the future of veterinary medicine, but the hearts and hands of the people who will carry it forward. Your impact reaches far beyond the classroom, and that is a legacy worth celebrating long after Vet Tech Week has ended. ā¤ļøšŸ¾ā¤ļø

As we close this series, we want to celebrate both Joan and Natalie for the dedication they bring to our program and the future they're helping build. They deserve to know that their work matters ā€” not just this week, but every week. And with that thank you, Joan and Natalie, for everything you do for Maple Woods and for the future of veterinary medicine. The celebration may be ending, but our gratitude certainly isn't. šŸ¾ šŸ’™šŸ¾

šŸŽ¤ **Now, let's hear from Joan!** We asked her a few questions about her experiences, her thoughts on the veterinary technology profession, and what she hopes future veterinary technicians will carry with them. Keep reading to hear her answers and get to know the person behind the teaching!

1. What is the best piece of wisdom an experienced mentor ever passed down to you?

Assume positive intent. The older I get, the easier this is for me. A personā€™s energy is infectious and I want to spread good energy!

2. If you could bottle up one specific feeling from your job and save it for a tough day, what moment would that be?

That I made someone feel seen and cared for. Every interaction I have with students has the potential for lasting impact ā€“ I control whether itā€™s good or bad. The best reward is when I see a former student and they share a story from their time at school and share how a simple conversation influenced them in a big way.

3. What is one thing about being an RVT that you think would completely surprise the general public?

That my job is a consolation prize to being a veterinarian. Itā€™s a common misconception. I never wanted to be a veterinarian, my strength is compassionate patient care that extends to compassionate client care. I am an educated and clinically competent credentialed professional. I use my knowledge and experience every day to influence the care and treatment of animals to promote positive patient outcomes. I am an integral member of the veterinary health care team.

4. Who was the ā€˜breakthrough patientā€™ that completely stole your heart and reminded you why you went into this field?

Animals are amazing. Every patient is special regardless of outcome. I take pride in the level of care I provide, that my goal is to bring my A game to every patient. When a hospitalized animal snuggles or head boops you, even though they feel terrible and you are doing things that may be uncomfortable, they know your heart and appreciate you. Take the few extra seconds to clean a face, brush the cat, literally hold the paw ā€“ it makes the day better for everyone.

5. What is the most unusual or unexpected animal youā€™ve ever had to treat or handle?

A scarlet macaw that didnā€™t like men or women with blond hair and had a potty mouth. He was a challenge!

6. How would you explain what you do?

I started in the field because I love animals and science. Itā€™s taken many years but feel that I am here for a reason. When starting my job at MWVT, that purpose centered around taking care of animals. I felt that I could effect positive change on a larger scale by motivating and empowering others to provide quality, compassionate care. However, it has become quite clear in the last several years that it isnā€™t all about the animals, the people I connect with are just as important as the animals. In short, I strive to leave the world a little better than when I got out of bed that morning. Itā€™s a bonus that I get to do that through teaching people how to nurse animals!

7. What advice would you give to future registered veterinary technicians?

Know your worth, as a profession we are loyal to a fault. Be the change you want to see in the profession. Give yourself and others grace.

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šŸ’™šŸ¾ **Passionate Heart, Fierce Dedication: The RVT Legacy Series** šŸ¾šŸ’™āœØ **Vet Tech Week may be over, but celebrating the p...
10/26/2026

šŸ’™šŸ¾ **Passionate Heart, Fierce Dedication: The RVT Legacy Series** šŸ¾šŸ’™

āœØ **Vet Tech Week may be over, but celebrating the people who make this profession extraordinary never goes out of season!** āœØ

As we wrap up our *RVT Legacy Series*, we couldn't let this celebration come to a close without recognizing two very special people who help make it all possible right here at the Metropolitan Community Collegeā€“Maple Woods Veterinary Technology Program: our incredible RVT instructors! šŸ©ŗšŸŽ“

Today, we're shining a special spotlight on **Natalie Watts**, whose role in educating and guiding future veterinary technicians is part of a legacy that reaches far beyond the classroom. šŸ’™

Every student who walks through our doors arrives with a dream, a passion for animals, and a whole lot to learn. Along the way, instructors help turn that passion into knowledge, confidence, and the skills needed to care for patients who cannot speak for themselves. They teach more than procedures and textbooks ā€” they help shape the veterinary professionals our communities will depend on for years to come. šŸ¶šŸ±

Natalie, along with Joan Gorman, helps lead the program that gives our students the opportunity to learn, grow, and work toward the careers they've dreamed of. The dedication behind that work deserves recognition not just during Vet Tech Week, but every single day. ā¤ļø

To Natalie: šŸ’™ Thank you for the love, dedication, and knowledge you pour into our students and this program. Being an instructor means so much more than teaching skills ā€” it means encouraging students when they doubt themselves, celebrating their victories, and helping them believe they can make a difference in the lives of animals and the people who love them.

One day, our students will graduate and carry what they've learned from you into countless exam rooms, treatment areas, and new adventures. You may not always see every life they touch, but a little piece of your teaching and encouragement will be there along the way. šŸ¾

**Thank you for helping turn a passion for animals into a lifelong purpose.** The legacy you leave will live on in every student you inspire and every patient they go on to care for. ā¤ļø

And stay tuned as we also celebrate Joan Gorman, because these two incredible instructors deserve to have their stories heard! šŸ’™

šŸŽ¤ **Now, let's hear from Natalie!** We've asked her a few questions about her experiences, her perspective on veterinary technology, and the wisdom she'd share with future veterinary technicians. Read on to hear directly from her!

1. What is the best piece of wisdom an experienced mentor ever passed down to you?

ā€œAn opportunity always presents itselfā€. It is something my mentor told me and she was so right, as usual. It is a reminder for me to make sure I am dealing with something in the right way, at the right time. A little patience goes a long way and sometimes NOW is not the best timeā€¦ā€¦but, an opportunity always presents itself!

2. If you could bottle up one specific feeling from your job and save it for a tough day, what moment would that be?

For me, now that I am in an education setting, it is that moment when a studentā€™s face lights up because they did something successfully or finally grasped a concept and that light bulb goes on! Such an energizing feeling!

3. What is one thing about being an RVT that you think would completely surprise the general public?

How much we have to fight to elevate ourselves and our profession. The recognition, the pay, the utilization, the standardization, the misconceptions, the educationā€¦..weā€™ve been fighting for similar things since I was a newly credentialed technician a long time ago and it is sad to see we are still fighting for the same things now.

4. Who was the ā€˜breakthrough patientā€™ that completely stole your heart and reminded you why you went into this field?

I cannot pick out 1 patient because I have seen so many, but what I do know is that I tried to give every one of those patients my best at that time for what they needed. Each one helped me grow and learn and evolve into the technician I am today. I am thankful for them all!

5. What is the most unusual or unexpected animal youā€™ve ever had to treat or handle?

Nothing crazyā€¦.the usual vet tech suspects. But I love to live vicariously through those RVTs that are getting to travel the world or work in zoo settings and care for those animals most of us will never get to touch!

6. How would you explain what you do?

I would love to wear a GoPro and record a day in the life because the answer truly isā€¦whatever is needed! Every day brings new challenges and puzzles to solve. I try to use all the skills I have learned to affect change in many ways.

7. What advice would you give to future registered veterinary technicians?

Elevate yourself, take pride in your work, strive to be better and enjoy what you get to do every day. Also, donā€™t forget to take care of your body and mind now, this profession can be hard on both! Be nicer to yourself and others. ā¤

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šŸŒŽšŸ¾ **Passionate Heart, Fierce Dedication: The RVT Legacy Series** šŸ¾šŸ’™āœˆļø **Meet Bailey Romi, RVTg ā€” Senior Clinical Outrea...
10/23/2026

šŸŒŽšŸ¾ **Passionate Heart, Fierce Dedication: The RVT Legacy Series** šŸ¾šŸ’™

āœˆļø **Meet Bailey Romi, RVTg ā€” Senior Clinical Outreach Coordinator for Worldwide Vets!** šŸ©ŗšŸŒ

Veterinary medicine doesn't stop at the clinic doors, and neither does the impact of a passionate veterinary professional! šŸ¶šŸ±

Bailey Romi, RVTg, brings veterinary care beyond familiar walls through her work as Senior Clinical Outreach Coordinator for Worldwide Vets. In a profession where every animal deserves a chance at a healthier life, outreach work helps bring people, knowledge, and veterinary resources together to make a difference where they're needed. šŸŒŽšŸ¾

From supporting veterinary outreach efforts to helping connect clinical care with communities, Bailey's role is a reminder that the possibilities within veterinary medicine reach far beyond what we might first imagine. Sometimes, the most meaningful adventures in this field happen when we step outside our comfort zones and look at the bigger picture! šŸ’™āœØ

For aspiring veterinary technicians, Bailey's career is an exciting reminder to stay curious, embrace new opportunities, and never underestimate where your credentials can take you. Your future in veterinary medicine might lead somewhere you never expected! šŸŽ“šŸŒ

We're excited to feature Bailey in our **RVT Legacy Series** and share her perspective on a profession that reaches across communities and beyond borders! šŸ¾

šŸ‘‡ **Let's hear Bailey's story!**

1) What is the best piece of wisdom an experienced mentor ever passed down to you?

Never put yourself in a box. There are so many different career paths in veterinary medicine, so if you're not happy with one facet, there are others you can dive into. Your box is self-limiting and this career, is truly limitless with what you can do.

2) If you could bottle up one specific feeling from your job and save it for a tough day, what moment would that be?

That feeling when you are standing in places you never thought you'd reach. My heart has always been in conservation. Knowing that I have had the opportunities to participate in things like releasing captive-raised manatees back into the Amazon overflows my heart with so much gratitude and joy.

3) What is one thing about being an RVT that you think would completely surprise the general public?

That there is so much more than our degree. We do so much more than just handle pets for the vet. We do every ounce of prep work for the vet to be able to diagnose and prescribe.

4) Who was the ā€˜breakthrough patientā€™ that completely stole your heart and reminded you why you went into this field?

My sweet dog, Jack. He was the best dog I have ever owned and, unfortunately, passed away from cancer days after my graduation.

5) What is the most unusual or unexpected animal youā€™ve ever had to treat or handle?

I have a very long list of unusual patients, but I do think my most interesting was handling a (at the time, unknown) rabid wild Indian Hyena.

6) How would you explain what you do?

I get paid to advocate for the lives of my patients through their complete medical care.

7) What advice would you give to future registered veterinary technicians?

Never, ever, give up on your dreams. If you see yourself working with wildlife in Africa, that opportunity is there. It just takes a heck of a lot of determination and elbow-grease to get there.

šŸŒŽšŸ¾šŸ’™

šŸ¾šŸ’™ **Passionate Heart, Fierce Dedication: The RVT Legacy Series** šŸ’™šŸ¾āœØšŸ¶ **From Maple Woods Graduate to Business Owner: Me...
10/23/2026

šŸ¾šŸ’™ **Passionate Heart, Fierce Dedication: The RVT Legacy Series** šŸ’™šŸ¾

āœØšŸ¶ **From Maple Woods Graduate to Business Owner: Meet Leah Horton, RVT!** šŸ±āœØ

Who says a veterinary technology degree only leads to one path? Sometimes, the skills, determination, and passion you develop along the way become the foundation for building something of your very own! šŸ’¼šŸ¾

Today, we're celebrating **Leah Horton, RVT, a proud Maple Woods Veterinary Technology Program graduate who has taken her experience in veterinary medicine and turned it into a business of her own!** šŸŽ“šŸ’™

Owning a business takes a special kind of dedication ā€” equal parts big dreams, hard work, problem-solving, and a willingness to keep learning as you go. Leah's journey is a wonderful reminder that the possibilities for RVTs can extend beyond the traditional clinic setting. The knowledge you gain, the relationships you build, and the passion that brought you into veterinary medicine can help shape a future uniquely your own! šŸŒŸ

We're always excited to see our Maple Woods graduates carving out their own paths and putting their education into action in different ways. Leah, we're thrilled to feature you in our **RVT Legacy Series**! šŸ¾

šŸŽ¤ Curious about what inspired Leah to become a business owner, what her journey has looked like, or what advice she has for aspiring veterinary technicians? Keep reading to hear her story!

1. What is the best piece of wisdom an experienced mentor ever passed down to you?

I have a few pieces of advice that I can think of from a couple of mentors. The first one that will sit with me for life is something my dad told me when I was in middle school- 'you may not be the one and only person to change the world, but you can change the world for one person'. I don't know why out of all the life lessons he taught me throughout my youth, that was THE one that really stuck with me. I choose to believe it too.

I have had several mentors through the years, but considering it is "National Vet Tech Week", I want to state two pieces of advice I received from both Joan and Natalie.
- Joan: "It's not always black and white"- that is something I practice on a daily basis and tell myself with several different aspects of our field. There will always be gray areas and nothing is "picture perfect" so you need to utilize your knowledge for the best possible outcome. I find myself telling our students or observers at work that phrase on a regular basis because of how deep a simple phrase really resonated with everything we do in veterinary medicine. For those that have heard Joan say it, you know.
- Natalie: I don't know if she remembers this specific conversation when I was a student, but she told me "focus on what you want, not want you think others expect of you". It's important to recognize that self-leadership allows you to set clear boundaries and when you treat your own mental and physical well-being as a priority, you can have a more fulfilling or rewarding day. What truly brings you that rewarding feeling trumps trying to live up to what others think you "should" do.

2. If you could bottle up one specific feeling from your job and save it for a tough day, what moment would that be?

If I could bottle up a feeling from my job and save it for a tough day, a moment that I always appreciate is what I call "the first". It is the face of excitement and joy when any of our staff learning a new skill experiences success in what they are trying. As a mentor and boss, it is fulfilling to see them attempt something that is new territory for them and be successful. Celebrating the little things can really boost them and their confidence and it makes me happy.

3. What is one thing about being an RVT that you think would completely surprise the general public?

The general public is always surprised at hearing how wide and complicated our scope of practice can be and how much knowledge is engraved in our brains to be a successful RVT. One of my favorite topics to talk about with our clients is educating them on what we are legally capable of doing. **I also love educating the general public in the legalities of wrongfully representing individuals as 'vet techs' when they are veterinary assistants**

4. Who was the ā€˜breakthrough patientā€™ that completely stole your heart and reminded you why you went into this field?

The answer to this question is not exactly answering the question that is being asked, but I am going to give my answer any way- My mother is a veterinary professional, and she was the 'breakthrough patient' for me. We grew up having family dinners every night and we always discussed our day- she never complained about her day and always gave such positive experiences that encouraged me to explore the field. She is a MWVT 1988 graduate and is still actively practicing medicine in general practice. It is extremely motivating and a privilege to see her at the age of retirement continue to work part-time in this field due to the passion she still has for what we do.

As far as a true 'breakthrough patient', I have an example, but it still doesn't exactly answer the question. I was already head over heels in love with this field, and though I hadn't started tech school yet or had plans at this time to attend tech school (this moment was back in 2015), we had a small shih tzu come in on an emergency named "Zoe". She was a frequent visitor and that client/patient duo were amazing. Zoe had been on a walk and was attacked by a much larger dog. She came in with her abdomen completely open and organs were outside the body. The owner wanted us to try to save her even though she was very critical- the doctor that took on the emergency did surgery at the end of the night, hospitalized her, came in over the course of the night because the owner couldn't afford 24-hour transfer care, and came in early the next morning. Zoe survived, had a cool scar, and went home a couple of days later. This case specifically changed my life, and I love telling that story because I realized that I wanted to work and learn with this doctor for the rest of my life. It's been 11 years since Dr. Bowers saved Zoe's life, and that doctor and I run our hospital together now that just hit 5 years open.

5. What is the most unusual or unexpected animal youā€™ve ever had to treat or handle?

The most unusual patient I have seen in practice personally is a kangaroo from a petting zoo in Kansas.

6. How would you explain what you do?

I always explain what I do in simple terms in order to save time...unless whomever I am talking to wants me to elaborate (I LOVE when that happens!)- Everything that you think the Veterinarian is doing, I actually do, minus prescribing, prognosing, diagnosing, and surgery. I get to provide direct medical and hands-on care under the supervision of a Veterinarian.

7. What advice would you give to future registered veterinary technicians?

The advice I would give to future RVTs first is to advocate for your self-worth and know what your 'non-negotiables' are. Never settle for anything less than what you need to keep yourself happy and healthy. Second, continue to challenge yourself- if you find yourself in a position where growth is no longer an option, re-evaluate where you are at/what you are doing. Lastly, never stop learning. Veterinary medicine continues to evolve, change, etc. and in order to benefit your patients, learning is a must.

šŸ’™šŸ¾

šŸ¾šŸ’™ **Passionate Heart, Fierce Dedication: The RVT Legacy Series** šŸ’™šŸ¾šŸŒŸ **Meet Emily, RVT ā€” Internal Medicine at MVES!** šŸŒŸ...
10/21/2026

šŸ¾šŸ’™ **Passionate Heart, Fierce Dedication: The RVT Legacy Series** šŸ’™šŸ¾

šŸŒŸ **Meet Emily, RVT ā€” Internal Medicine at MVES!** šŸŒŸ

Medicine can be complicated, but compassion should always speak every language. šŸ©ŗā¤ļø

Emily brings a special combination of knowledge, communication, and advocacy to her role as an RVT in Internal Medicine at MVES. As a bilingual veterinary technician who frequently translates Spanish, she helps make sure language is never a barrier to understanding a pet's care. Because when it comes to our furry family members, every pet parent deserves to feel informed, supported, and heard! šŸ¶šŸ±šŸ’¬

And her passion doesn't stop at the clinic doors! Emily is also actively involved with the **Missouri Veterinary Technicians Association**, showing her commitment to the people behind the profession, too. šŸ¾šŸ¤

Whether she's helping navigate complex medical cases, bridging language gaps, or supporting the veterinary technician community, Emily reminds us that being an RVT is about so much more than medical skills ā€” it's about being an advocate for both patients and the people who love them. šŸ’™

We're excited to share Emily's perspective as part of our **RVT Legacy Series**! Get to know the person behind the credentials and discover what inspires her in this incredible profession. āœØ

šŸ‘‡ **Let's hear what Emily has to share!**

1. What is the best piece of wisdom an experienced mentor ever passed down to you?

ā€œNever stop learning. Veterinary medicine is always advancing, and even after years in the field, thereā€™s still so much to learn. Just because weā€™ve always done something a certain way doesnā€™t mean itā€™s the best way. We have to be willing to adapt, embrace change, and continue improving for the sake of our patients. Iā€™ve also learned that itā€™s okay to ask questions and that being a good technician doesnā€™t mean having all the answers, but being willing to learn and grow is.ā€

2. If you could bottle up one specific feeling from your job and save it for a tough day, what moment would that be?

ā€œFor me, itā€™s that feeling of pride and satisfaction when I know Iā€™ve played a part in helping a patient get better or even saving their life. I think sometimes we forget just how cool our jobs actually are! We can draw blood, run diagnostics, look at something under a microscope and identify microorganisms, monitor anesthesia, and so much more. Itā€™s pretty amazing how much weā€™re capable of doing and how all those skills come together to help an animal that canā€™t tell us whatā€™s wrong. Thereā€™s something really rewarding about putting your knowledge and skills to use and knowing you genuinely made a difference. Those are the moments that make me stop and think, ā€œWow, I actually get to do this for a living!ā€

3. What is one thing about being an RVT that you think would completely surprise the general public?

ā€œI think people would be surprised by how much critical thinking goes into being an RVT. Weā€™re not just following instructions or performing procedures, we have to understand WHY weā€™re doing them and know when something isnā€™t right. Sometimes itā€™s the smallest changes in a patientā€™s behavior, vital signs, or lab results that tell us something is wrong. Weā€™re constantly observing, problem-solving, and thinking a few steps ahead because our patients canā€™t exactly tell us how theyā€™re feeling. Itā€™s a lot of responsibility, and I donā€™t think people realize just how much knowledge and skill goes into being an RVT.ā€

4. Who was the ā€˜breakthrough patientā€™ that completely stole your heart and reminded you why you went into this field?

ā€œI donā€™t think I could narrow it down to just one patient. Over the years, there have been so many animals that have left an impression on me for different reasons. Some have challenged me and helped me become a better technician, some have tested every ounce of patience I have (and then some), and others have just completely stolen my heart. I think thatā€™s one of my favorite things about this career. You never really know which patient is going to leave a lasting impression on you, but somehow, they always do.ā€

5. What is the most unusual or unexpected animal youā€™ve ever had to treat or handle?

ā€œI havenā€™t had the chance to work with anything too unusual yet, but Iā€™ve gotten to handle a hedgehog, a bearded dragon, a tortoise and a leopard gecko! I really enjoy working with exotic animals and learning about all the different species. Itā€™s fascinating how different their anatomy, behaviors, and care needs can be. Iā€™m always excited when an exotic patient comes in because itā€™s an opportunity to learn something new!ā€

6. How would you explain what you do?

ā€œRVTs are like the jack-of-all-trades of veterinary medicine! Weā€™re anesthetists, dental hygienists, phlebotomists, lab technicians, patient advocates, and more! We do everything from collecting samples and running diagnostics to monitoring anesthesia, performing dental cleanings, and educating pet owners. Our patients canā€™t tell us whatā€™s wrong, so a big part of our job is using our knowledge and skills to help figure it out. Iā€™m also bilingual, which allows me to help Spanish-speaking clients better understand their petsā€™ care!ā€

7. What advice would you give to future registered veterinary technicians?

ā€œNever stop learning and always be open to new ideas and ways of doing things. Veterinary medicine is constantly evolving, and we should be growing right along with it! Donā€™t be afraid to speak up, advocate for yourself, and advocate for our profession as a whole. Get involved with your local veterinary technician associations, connect with other technicians, and help make a difference! We work so hard to advocate for our patients, but itā€™s just as important to advocate for ourselves and each other. Our voices matter, and if we want to see positive changes in our field, we have to be willing to be part of them!ā€

šŸ¾šŸ’™ **Passionate Heart, Fierce Dedication: The RVT Legacy Series** šŸ’™šŸ¾āœØ **Meet Courtney, RVT & Practice Manager!** āœØBeing ...
10/21/2026

šŸ¾šŸ’™ **Passionate Heart, Fierce Dedication: The RVT Legacy Series** šŸ’™šŸ¾

āœØ **Meet Courtney, RVT & Practice Manager!** āœØ

Being a veterinary technician takes compassion, dedication, and a whole lot of heart ā€” but sometimes, that journey leads to a role where you get to support not only the patients, but the entire team behind their care! šŸ©ŗšŸ¶šŸ±

Today, we're shining the spotlight on Courtney, an RVT who now serves as a Practice Manager! From understanding the hands-on side of veterinary medicine to helping keep a practice running smoothly, Courtney represents one of the many ways veterinary technicians can grow their careers and make a difference beyond the treatment room. šŸ’™

Because behind every great veterinary practice is a team working together, and strong leadership helps that team thrive! šŸ¾

As part of our **RVT Legacy Series**, we're excited to share Courtney's experiences, insights, and advice for the next generation of veterinary professionals. Whether you're just starting your vet tech journey or exploring where your RVT credentials can take you, there's so much to learn from those who have walked the path before us! šŸŽ“āœØ

šŸ¾ **Let's hear from Courtney!** ā¬‡ļø

1. What is the best piece of wisdom an experienced mentor ever passed down to you?

- The best piece of wisdom a mentor ever gave me was, ā€œYouā€™re human, give yourself some grace.ā€ Itā€™s a reminder that we canā€™t do everything perfectly, and thatā€™s okay. Weā€™re often so busy taking care of everyone else that we forget to take care of ourselves. Learning to give myself grace, accept that mistakes are part of growth, and remember that Iā€™m human has been one of the most valuable lessons Iā€™ve carried with me both personally and professionally.

2. If you could bottle up one specific feeling from your job and save it for a tough day, what moment would that be?

- The moment I would bottle up is a client hugging me after their pet spent three days hospitalized with us, knowing they were going home with their tail wagging. Seeing the relief and gratitude on that clientā€™s face is a reminder of why we do what we do. On the tough days, I would hold on to that feeling of knowing we made a difference in both a petā€™s life and their familyā€™s.

3. What is one thing about being an RVT that you think would completely surprise the general public?

- One thing that would surprise the general public is just how much responsibility RVTs have when it comes to anesthesia. We donā€™t just assist during surgery; we calculate and administer medications, monitor vital signs, adjust anesthesia, and make sure patients stay safe and stable throughout the entire procedure. Thereā€™s a lot of skill, knowledge, and critical thinking involved in keeping our patients safe while they canā€™t speak for themselves.

4.. Who was the ā€˜breakthrough patientā€™ that completely stole your heart and reminded you why you went into this field?

- One patient who will always hold a special place in my heart was a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy who came to us with parvo. We were genuinely worried we might lose him, but our entire team worked tirelessly to give him the best chance possible. Watching him fight through it and ultimately make a full recovery was an incredible feeling.

5. What is the most unusual or unexpected animal youā€™ve ever had to treat or handle?

- Bearded dragon!

6. How would you explain what you do?

- We wear many hats, weā€™re anesthetists, dental hygienists, phlebotomists, groomers, and so much more. Weā€™re also the shoulders clients lean on during difficult moments and the voice for the patients who canā€™t speak for themselves. At the end of the day, weā€™re here to advocate for our patients, support their families, and make sure every pet receives the gold-standard care they deserve.

7. What advice would you give to future registered veterinary technicians?

- Veterinary medicine is a challenging field, but itā€™s also incredibly rewarding. My advice is to stay curious, never stop learning, give yourself grace, and remember why you chose this profession. Most importantly, take your time off and make time for yourself! Itā€™s easy to pour everything you have into caring for others, but you canā€™t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your patients.

Address

2601 NE Barry Road
Kansas City, MO
64156

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4pm
Tuesday 8am - 4pm
Wednesday 8am - 4pm
Thursday 8am - 4pm
Friday 8am - 4pm

Telephone

+18166043235

Website

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