Allison O'Connor

Bio:

Allison is an energetic 2^nd year veterinarian student in the Iowa State University/University of Nebraska 2 + 2 program and plans to become a small animal veterinarian with a specialty in exotics/pocket pets after she graduates.  She has a dog and a cat and 2 dwarf hamsters that she spoils whenever she gets the chance.  She is excited about building and maintaining relationships with her future clients and sharing in the special bond they have with their pets by being a dependable, empathetic and knowledgeable veterinarian. 

Mentorship Program:

During my time at IVS, I have learned how to put myself in the role of the veterinarian.  I am used to and comfortable with being the assistant or the receptionist from previous experiences, so it was eye opening to learn how to be the one to make treatment plans and how to read and decide what diagnostic tests to run.  The veterinarians all have extensive knowledge in their areas of expertise and are some of the best I have yet to work with. 

The techs were also extremely helpful!  I was impressed with the extent of knowledge they had for veterinary medicine and they were all very proficient in running diagnostic tests, monitoring patients and client relations.  They taught me how to properly place an IV catheter, draw blood, obtain a heartrate, pulse and respiration, and how to handle a triage (emergency where the patient is in critical care upon arrival) when they come in.

Overall, this experience was very helpful in my path to becoming a competent veterinarian.  I will cherish the bonds I have made with the clients and staff at Iowa Veterinary Specialties and leave with a confidence in myself to become the veterinarian I have always wanted to be.