Cassy K.

I started working as a veterinary assistant at a small animal hospital when I was in high school, just after I got my first dog. The more I learned, the more my love for animals grew. One dachshund shortly turned into four and that’s when I realized this was the field I was meant to be in! I definitely have a passion for small animals and am always eager to help with any exotics that come through.

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.
Some of my favorite memories are a result of a challenge. There are a few instances I can think of with rowdy birds, but I think one of my favorites was handling two birds in a room with the doctor. The birds flew straight out of their kennel and around the whole room. The owners refrained from telling us that their birds were rarely handled and they did not necessarily feel comfortable handling them in the hospital. But luckily, they were just startled and were very friendly!

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?
If I could compare myself to any animal, I would choose a Beluga Whale. I love how playful and friendly they are, even in the wild. I love watching videos of them lending a helping hand and returning stuff people drop in the ocean.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
I did an internship at a zoo over the summer and loved taking care of the Cotton-Tipped Tamarins. They look like little mad scientists and are so devious; I could watch them play all day.