HR Update
“I knew from high school that I wanted to work with animals as a vet tech. My uncle taught me how to ride horses, which eventually led me here [to the Leatherdale Equine Center]. I’m so proud of myself for making it here and earning my VTS in large animal internal medicine.
“The clients are laid back and great to work with, but they still fiercely love their animals. Goats, pigs, and sheep may be considered farm animals to a lot of people, but to a client that goat is everything.
“At Leatherdale, we work together as a team to deliver foals, treat illnesses, diagnose causes of lameness, help animals prepare for competitions, and more. My job is to provide the best care possible to the patients and their owners. A big part of this is putting both the animal and the owner at ease. Interpersonal skills are key–I ask general questions about a patient to get to know the animal and to help the owner relax as they talk about their pet. The better I know the patient, the better care I can provide.
“Someday I’d like to teach. I’m getting teaching experience by working at the University, and I would love to play an active part in training the next generation of vet techs. Plus, I want to increase interest in working with large animals. My advice for someone who’s considering this career path is to not give up. Set a goal, lean on the people who love you most, and work hard.
“Goats and horses are my favorite patients. They have big personalities.”—Hilary Baskin, Animal Care Tech Specialist, AFSCME Unit 7 - Technical
Learn more about veterinary technician jobs at the Veterinary Medical Center.