My family has always had a keen interest in the medical field, and with that, specifically veterinary medicine.  Since I can remember I wanted to know why, what, where, when, and how an animal received medical attention in particular the pharmaceutical aspect of the profession.  Plus passing out at the sight of human blood did not bode well, and indicated I would be better suited to the veterinary world. I attended Olds College in the fall of 2007 straight from high school. I excelled in the Veterinary Medical Receptionist program graduating on the dean's list that following spring.  The best part of my job is getting to know the different owners and the stories behind their animals. Everyone has a different tale and it is lovely hearing how one acquired their pet. I also enjoy seeing the animal's change the way they think about the clinic. The first time they come in they are often nervous and seeing that demeanor change over time is great. And who can resist the puppies and kittens that walk through the door!

Right now I have 1 house cat, Gizmo, who is rather chubby but makes a great foot warmer in the winter. I also have 1 barn cat, Cocoa, that is very tiny with a big attitude, sleeping most days away rather then being a 'barn cat'. I have always been highly active in the horse industry and right now I own a lovely Hanoverian gelding. Cole has had a bit of a tough life before he came to me, but has come out of his shell and is very playful and cheeky. I have been riding horses since I was 5 and most evenings and weekends can be found in the saddle. Keeping this in mind, after graduating in the spring of 2008 I wasn't ready to get a 'real' job. So I spent three and a half years grooming at show jumping barns in Canada and New Zealand. Doing this gave me great organizational skills and allowed me to see some great places. During this time I was also able to ride and show some wonderful horses. I am most interested and competitive in the hunter ring. I have won numerous championships and one very important amateur hunter award; this being the Harry Churchill Memorial Trophy aboard Extra Credit (pictured). I thoroughly enjoy caring for and showing my horses and one day hope to compete at the Royal Winter Fair in Toronto and various events in the U.S.

Marla Grossman, AHT

From a very young age I can remember being fascinated by animals and wanting to surround myself with them.  As a child I was not allowed to have any pets so I adopted the neighborhood dogs and cats as my own.  I remember when one of the neighborhood dogs was hit by a car and was rushed to the veterinary clinic to see the “doctor”.  I did not fully understand what this meant but was instantly intrigued, and I immediately begged my parents to take me to the veterinary clinic to see if the dog was alright.  From that moment on I was determined to learn all I could about animals and what it meant to care for them.  As soon as I was able I was working at the local veterinary clinic doing any job available; from kennel cleaner and janitor, to front desk reception to veterinary assistant.  This eventually led me to Olds College, where I graduated in the spring of 2008 from the Animal Health Technology (AHT) Program.  I began my career as an AHT at a busy practice where most new grads would be overwhelmed; however I thrived under the pressure.  I have also had the opportunity of doing some work at Animal Emergency Services in Red Deer, giving me additional skills in emergency medicine.

Although there are many aspects of veterinary medicine I am interested in, small animal anesthesia is what I enjoy most.  Every day animals require anesthesia for a variety of procedures and surgeries. I take pleasure in being able to provide these animals with the best quality care I can before, during and after these procedures. Anesthesia is a constantly evolving field of veterinary medicine, which gives me the opportunity to continue to learn and gain new skills so that I can provide the best care possible to the dogs and cats in my care. Another aspect of my job I really enjoy is preparing and sterilizing surgical packs which I find a very relaxing and enjoyable task.

I moved to Olds in the fall of 2006 from Southern Alberta and really enjoyed what Central Alberta had to offer. This motivated me to move to Red Deer after graduating with my new dog Lokie (pictured) and eventually back here to Olds. As most students of the AHT program do, I was unable to leave school without adopting one of the furry animals we worked with so closely. Lokie and I are new agility partners and are currently taking classes to learn the necessary skills to perhaps compete in the future. I also share my house with my boyfriend Dave, who is an avid photographer, and his elderly black cat, Scooter. Most days, Scooter can be found sleeping the day away in the sun. Although she will never admit to it, she enjoys sharing her home with a furry dog. Often when no one is looking you will find the dog and cat nudging and cuddling each other.

Zorah, Resident Cat

Zorah is our resident clinic cat here at Olds Pet Clinic. She arrived with the typical flare any torti would and has attempted to be very useful. No Dr. Hall does not need another assistant in surgery! Or X-Ray! Or the Exam Rooms! We are positive she will get used to the boundaries of the clinic shortly.

Zorah was at the SPCA in Red Deer when they discovered a medical condition that made her a poor candidate for adoption. So they approached us, we knew it would be more work having a clinic cat however Zorah needed a forever home. She loves people and is very affectionate, demands attention even when everyone is busy. Her typing skills are left to be desired and she hasn’t gotten the hang of the telephone. She is great with the canine patients that come through the door, and is a useful companion to the feline patients. She is very playful and will often run off with the pen you just had or even a leash if she can get ahold of it! If you would like to come meet our newest trouble maker please feel free to stop in at any time!