Role at HWVH: Essentially, I’m the smile you see when you walk in the office on Monday, Wednesday & Friday and/or the cheerful voice that greets you when you call. I schedule appointments, answer questions, provide comfort and care for our 2-legged and 4-legged friends, listen, offer treats, and do whatever else I can to make your HWVH a positive experience.

Why do you like working with animals?: Working with animals keeps me honest. It requires patience, warmth, and respect for all living things.

What was your first pet, and can you share a little about that animal?: My very first childhood pet was a gorgeous collie, named Shane. My dad brought him home for my second birthday! He looked just like Lassie. He was my friend, my constant companion, and playmate.

My first pet as an adult was a Maine Coon named Calvin (aka Calvin the Country Cat). A friend of mine helped me find him at a shelter in Kittery, ME. In his prime, he was 25 pounds and a fierce hunter. He lived a great, long life of 18 years.

Currently, we have two ponies: Devon and Jack. Our daughter rides and we help with grooming, mucking, day-to-day care, trailer transportation, and the expenses. I am a novice with horses and was intimidated at first by their size, strength, and power. Although I have yet to learn to ride, I am no longer fearful!

What can people learn from animals?: Perhaps the real question is what can’t we learn from our animal friends! Animals, domesticated or wild, teach us to forgive and forget; to communicate with our actions, rather than our words; and they help us form an unspoken bond. Animals can teach us the importance of a positive spirit, optimism, and patience — to worry less, care more, and be happy with the simple things that life has to offer