Growing up on a farm has taught me hard work, responsibility, and how to care and respect for all animals. Animals have been a huge part of my life and have influenced my career path.
On the farm we had dogs, cats, cows, horses, goats, donkeys, llamas, chickens, turkeys, potbellied pigs, wild boars, and pink pigs. We called it the “funny farm.”
Animals are still a huge part of my family to this day and I owe my love for animals to my parents.
My mom and dad sold the farm in 2006, packed up their fifth wheel and ended up in Campbell River, BC. My dad went to college at 54 years old to fulfill a dream, which led to his dream job as a guide at Knight Inlet Lodge. He took guests in kayaks to view grizzly bears, hikes to educate guests on animals and nature, and whale watching tours. Having a love of photography allowed my dad to capture amazing pictures of grizzlies and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Through these photos, my dad fulfilled another dream and wrote a book called Seasons of the Grizzly in Knight Inlet. My mom and dad moved back to Alberta to be closer to their 3 kids and their grandchildren. This move did not stop my dad from continuing his dream; he currently works at Lazy Bear Lodge in Churchill, Manitoba where he guides guests to view polar bears.
For as long as long as I can remember I have always wanted to work with animals. When I moved to Red Deer in 2005 I applied for a job at Lomsnes Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Lisa was kind enough to take a chance on a farm girl with no experience and 10 years later my passion for caring for animals continues.
Growing up, my brothers and I were taught to follow our dreams and that is why I love my job, the happy and the sad.
