Greater Hickory Kennel Club Future Veterinarian Education Scholarship

My passion for animals is something I’ve always struggled to put into words because they’ve always been an integral part of my life. While my parents didn’t understand, my grandmother did. As an AKC canine exhibitor and breeder, she not only shared my passion but nurtured it. Recognizing my passion for animals, she immersed me into her dog world and it became our dog world. The majority of my weekends were spent in a show ring or practicing breeding protocols. My favorite places to be became ringside or in the whelping box. She not only taught me the techniques of showing and breeding, but also the importance of producing dogs with predictable type, health, and temperament. Along with being accountable for every puppy produced for its entire life. Growing up in the show world, I got to experience firsthand the importance of genetic preservation and the major role it plays in veterinary medicine. We worked closely with a multitude of veterinarians to ensure that each litter would further the breed genetically. We performed genetic screenings and health clearances with specialists, along with temperament and personality tests to ensure the best continued the lines. I never fully understood the benefit of this until a stud failed his heart clearance and was diagnosed with TVD. After this, I was left questioning the origin, treatment, and the implications it had on his life. Through discussion with the specialist, I learned that TVD is a congenital disease without a cure. This meant we should not breed him, as to not pass on the condition. This experience left me wanting to know more. So, I started working in clinics and soon realized my passion for the field and gained a deeper understanding of the intersection of medicine and purebreds. In my clinic work, I was able to observe how predictability played a large role in veterinary medicine. Since they often come with their own set of health issues, this makes it easier for vets to diagnose and treat these conditions. In addition, I was able to assist in a clinical study where purebred dogs were used to test new cancer screening technology. This technology now allows for early cancer detection and earlier treatment of certain types of cancers. Knowing the benefits of purebreds from both sides, I developed a service project with the Raleigh-Durham Labrador Retriever Club. We created an event focused on raising public engagement and education on showing, breed standards, ethical breeders, and general puppy healthcare. My intention was to help owners or potential owners gain an understanding of what to look for in a good breeder and the benefit to a wellbred, healthy puppy. As a veterinarian, I want to encourage owner education so they may play an active role in their pet’s health and maintenance of their well-being. I want to leave owners feeling more confident in their abilities to care for their animals. I hope to one day become the reliable veterinarian that breeders, like my grandmother, have always desired.