Katie Berry, Class of 2012 animal health technology, is Petplan Insurance's 2019 Veterinary Nurse of the Year. She was one of three veterinary technicians in North America nominated for the award.
Berry received the award at the Petplan Veterinary Awards in Orlando, FL on Sunday, Jan. 20. She was one of three veterinary technicians in North America nominated.
“I was so excited. I didn't realize this award existed, but it's great that we have an opportunity to get recognized for our work,” Berry says.
Berry is the director of medical services and a registered veterinary technician at Montgomery Village Veterinary Clinic & Dekens Housecall Services in Calgary, Alta. As a veterinary technician, she assists veterinarians in diagnosing and treating animals. In her role as director of medical services, Berry manages clinic operations including scheduling, protocols and inventory, and oversees other veterinary technicians.
She is also known to begin her shifts early and stay after hours, ensure clients and patients receive the best care, and maintain a positive attitude.
“There are a lot of different reasons why Katie deserves this recognition,” says Dr. Dirk Dekens, owner of Montgomery Village Veterinary Clinic.
“Katie is always in a good mood. It's nice to come into the clinic and see her there. She is also very experienced, and her insights and feedback are always very important and appreciated. Katie makes the work of everyone else so much easier because we know we can rely on her.”
For as long as she can remember, Berry has always liked animals more than people. “I knew I didn't want to be a vet because I didn't want to be in school for that long, but I still wanted to pursue animal medicine. I found Lakeland's program and I loved every minute of it.”
Berry credits her strong skill set to Lakeland because of the hands-on learning opportunities she experienced in the small animal clinic.
“It's eye opening to realize how much more hands-on experience and animal interaction I received at Lakeland versus other schools. I often wonder why some vet techs don't have a certain skill and it's because they weren't given the same opportunities.”
Thousands of people from across the United States and Canada are nominated as the industry's “best in show” at the Petplan Veterinary Awards. The finalists in each category demonstrates a commitment to offering exceptional veterinary care, advancing pet health beyond their practice, and providing an outstanding client experience to pet parents.
Photos: Katie with one of her vet idols Andy Roark at the Petplan Veterinary Awards on Jan. 20. Katie's Veterinary Nurse of the Year Award. Katie with Andy and a friend.