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Dr. Rachel Courville

What is your educational and work background?

I did my undergraduate studies at Michigan State and I actually skipped a grade! I was able to apply to vet school one year earlier than most. I applied early so that I could learn about the application process and I ended up being accepted to three schools! So I skipped my senior year at MSU and went straight into vet school at the University of Missouri! I spent my first year of practice as an Emergency Veterinarian and I am so happy to have obtained some amazing experience to help me in my transition over to general practice.

What made you decide to become a vet?

When I was 5 years old my Aunt, who was a vet tech, gave me a tour of our local veterinary clinic and I was hooked! As soon as I was old enough I started shadowing  and observing surgeries at the clinic we took my family dog to. I eventually began working there and simultaneously loving my science classes in high school so I knew this was the career for me!

Why did you decide to join the Companion team?

When I chose to transition to general practice from emergency medicine, I knew I wanted to work somewhere with a high standard of medicine and a strong care for their patients and pet parents, so Companion Animal Hospital was the first clinic that came to mind!

What is the best thing about being a vet?

My favorite part is being able to help a sick pet not only in the moment, but also getting to see them through their recovery and help them get back to their happy lives. Oh and also puppies are the other best thing!

What is one of the most common problems you’ve encountered in pets you treat?

Gastrointestinal upset

Do you have any special interests in vet medicine?

I’m a big fan of urgent care, preventative medicine and I’m excited to learn more about dermatology.

What is the most unusual pet you have helped treat?

A Budweiser Clydesdale.

What are some of your favorite activities outside of work?

I love to go on walks on the lake front trail with my pup Isabella. I also have a YouTube channel/instagram account called BellaVet (named after my pup!) that offers pre-vet advice for future veterinarians along with pet parent advice, like how to avoid a pet emergency and what to consider before adopting a rescue pup!

What is your biggest pet peeve?

People walking slowly on the side walk, I’m a speed walker!

Favorite place to eat?  

Machine in Wicker Park!

Favorite place to visit?

It’s a tie between Manarola, Italy and Stockholm, Sweden!

Favorite food?

Hot wings!

Favorite movie?

The Last Five Years

What are your favorite sports teams?

Michigan State anything!

Name 3 things people might be surprised to learn about you:

  1. One time I almost got into a car accident with the Swedish royal family.
  2. I helped to rescue a stray pot bellied pig in vet school.
  3. I used to be a competitive Scottish Highland Dancer.