DeeDee

What made you decide to become a Veterinary Hospital Manager?

I grew up in a house full of animals. My mother bred miniature schnauzers and boxers when I was a child. One of my earliest memories is sitting on the kitchen floor bottle feeding boxer puppies. Not only did we have dogs but usually a few cats and at one point we had 2 horses as well. When my mother was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer I left retail management and enrolled in vet tech school so I could realize my lifelong dream of working with animals. After working as a tech for a few years I decided to merge my management experience from retail and my experience as a tech. My passion quickly became ensuring the business was sound so doctors could focus on what they do best, care for pets.

Do you have any special interests in Vet Medicine?

I am passionate about ophthalmology. The first 4 years I worked as a tech, I was with Dr. Erica Tolar in Louisville, KY. She was the only board-certified ophthalmologist seeing small animals in the state of Kentucky at the time.

What is the most unusual pet you have helped treat?

There are quite a few since Dr. Tolar cares for all the ocular needs of the animals at the Louisville Zoo. My favorite was performing electroretinograms on lowland gorillas.

What are some of your favorite activities outside of work?

I love to travel and I’m on a mission to visit all 50 states. I have 6 more to go! I’m also a huge foodie – I think that may be why I love Chicago so much.

Favorite place to visit?

The Betsy River in Benzonia, Michigan during the fall months.

Favorite restaurant?

There are so many options I can’t say I have a favorite.

Favorite food?

Mexican, sushi or anything with fresh mango!

Favorite movie?

Against All Odds and Oh Brother Where Art Thou.