I am a proud graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine (Go Bucks!). I have been animal centric my whole life so it was a natural progression for me to become a veterinarian. The career choice has been challenging as it took me a long time to find my niche in the profession. I practiced small animal medicine and surgery in private practice for 11 years working full time at a clinic for 9 years and doing relief (substitute) work for 2 years. I finally realized that I wasn't happy and began to consider alternative career choices. An opportunity at a pet food company became available where I have been employed for over 9.5 years now. This job gives me the opportunity to practice medicine and positively impact the welfare of animals in my care as well as around the world with our products. I have learned the value and importance of nutrition and how it can impact an animal's life.
I have lived in Ohio my entire life but long to live in a warm climate especially during the winter. I hate winter. The only advantage to winter in my house is the piles of cats I have on me during the night who are desperately trying to stay warm. Although, I do argue that they have "tiny fur coats" so why do they steal my body warmth? Anyway, I currently live with 7 cats (see Over the Bridge) and Greg. Together we have rescued or adopted them all from some situation that has put them in peril. We were dogless for a long time but last year adopted a lovely terrier mix who we named Isabel (see About the Dog). She now rules the roost and fits in well with the cats. She is about the same size so they don't notice her much and I'm not sure she realizes she is a dog since she is smaller than a couple of the cats! Oh yeah, I am the "crazy cat lady" to many of my friends. I accept the title despite its sometimes negative connotation.....
I am not a writer by training but it is something I enjoy. I am generally a quiet, introvert type so writing is a way to express some of those feelings I want to share. It is also a way to inform people, be an animal advocate, and create awareness around issues that I feel very strongly about. I don't post as frequently as I would like to due to time constraints. I believe that when I post it should be meaningful so I want to take the time to make it right and not just throw something up. So be patient, hopefully you will find some tidbit of information useful or informative when I do post.
Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy!
Dawn Spangler
dondicat@yahoo.com
