Hello, my name is Vickie. I am a Licensed Veterinary Technician with over 35 years of experience working with your beloved family members.
I was told I knew what I wanted to be when I grew up at 3. My dad always told me that when other little girls wanted Barbie dolls, I wanted stuffed animals and a doctor’s medical bag. This vision of my
future never faltered. I have been working with animals since 1983, starting as a bather in a grooming salon in my hometown of Woodbridge, VA. I watched, learned, and apprenticed with the owner, eventually running the mobile grooming van. I drove this fully contained van, parking in the client’s driveway to groom their dog in a stress-free environment.
I began my career in the veterinary field in March of 1987 as a veterinary assistant at Ridge Lake Animal Hospital. During my time with this hospital, I attended Northern Virginia Community College. While in school, I was the student representative of the Virginia Association of Licensed Veterinary Technicians. I passed my state and national boards in June 1990, becoming a Licensed Veterinary Technician. My career has taken me from Woodbridge, VA, to Oceanside, CA, where I worked in general practice. From Oceanside, CA, I moved to my husband’s hometown of Bethany, IL. I found employment at The University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. I spent a year as a surgical technician, helping to train the upcoming veterinarians. My love for general practice returned me to my home state of Virginia, where I have worked in the Richmond, VA, area since 1993.
I am still a member of the Virginia Association of Licensed Veterinary Technicians. I became Fear-Free Certified in December 2021. I strive to attend continuing education programs as they become available throughout the year, earning more than eight credits the State of VA requires to maintain my license in good standing.
I enjoy all areas of veterinary medicine but have a special love for alternative medicine. I became certified as a Veterinary Technician TCVM (Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine) through the Chi Institute in Reddick, FL. In conjunction with the doctor, this allows me to give your pet another avenue for pain and stress relief with massage therapy. In September 2024, I will also begin a specialized animal massage therapy certification through the Chi Institute. On Sundays, my husband and I attend Thrive Church in person or via the Internet. In my free time, I enjoy quiet time reading. My hobbies include camping, hiking, walking around a new town, an old cemetery, or walking a mountain trail with my husband, Chris, of 31 years, and our new family member, Chocolate “Chip” Cookie Dough. Chip is a Moyen Poodle.