Animal Care Centre employee receives award

By Miriam Ostermann, Associate Editor

The Animal Care Centre of Strathmore recently celebrated one of their own, after their registered veterinarian technologist (RVT) was the recipient of the 2018 Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA) Communications award.
Chelsey Chevrier, who’s worked at the centre since it opened its doors in 2007, singlehandedly took it upon herself to educate the public through the creation of quarterly newsletters, Facebook posts, public presentations and articles in community magazines and newspapers.
Her efforts for the past 12 years went above and beyond the call of duty as an RVT and manager that caught the attention of not only local members, but those at ABVMA.
“I was very honoured to have been nominated by Dr. (Jodi) Viste for such a prestigious award and quite shocked to actually be the recipient. It really means a lot to be recognized in such a way, and yet still so unexpected,” said Chevrier.
“I am very fortunate to work alongside some amazing veterinarians and colleagues who share their knowledge, expertise and creativity with me. Their collaboration helps me to provide fun educational articles, newsletters, case studies, clinic videos and current information to our clients and the public.”
Chevrier grew up on a cattle and grain farm in a small community just outside of Rosebud. Over the years her love for animals and animal care reflected in her actions of checking and feeding cows, riding horses, and playing with cats and dogs. Ultimately, that passion translated into her enrolling in Olds College’s animal health technology program from which she graduated in 2005.
Jodi Viste, veterinarian and owner of the Animal Care Centre, said Chevrier excels as an RVT. She decided to nominate the employee for the additional effort outside of her job description.
“I am so excited for her and she is so deserving of this award,” said Viste. “She’s been invaluable in keeping Strathmore and the community pet owners and producers well educated and informed.”
In her nomination, Viste stated Chevrier’s communication is extremely informative, compassionate and professional.
“The Animal Care Centre has established a fabulous team and great values at the clinic, and that’s a huge part of why my job is so enjoyable,” said Chevrier. “I love working with compassionate team members who truly care about each individual patient and will go the extra mile for both our patients and clients. On top of that our clients are absolutely amazing and they spoil us. It’s like a family we have at the clinic.”
Although Chevrier is currently on maternity leave, she will continue to educate and inform the public on animal care upon her return.