LAUREL DUTRISAC, PRACTICE OWNER

REGISTERED VETERINARY TECHNICIAN, CERTIFIED CANINE REHABILITATION PRACTITIONER, FITPAWS MASTER TRAINER, CERTIFIED CANINE FITNESS TRAINER

1. How long have you been an RVT for?
I am actually receiving my 20 pin as an RVT, but I have been a veterinary technician for 27 years

2. When did you realize you wanted to become an RVT?
From a very young age I was always able to connect with animals and had an interest in working with animals.  It wasn't until I reached highschool that I made the choice to become a veterinary technician

3. What other jobs have you had (in the field of Veterinary Medicine or not), and what led you to working in Physical Rehabilitation?  What specialized courses did you have to take/have you taken?
I have always worked in the veterinary field, I began with highschool coop at a veterinary practice here in north bay and obtained summer employment even through college.  When I graduated I obtained full time employment at the same veterinary clinic.  My whole working career has been dedicated to working in the veterinary field.

4. What are your future goals as an RVT?
Maybe obtain my 30 year pin, I would also like to publish some articles in the RVT new about rehab and specific common conditions and the approach to healing from a rehab perspective.

5. Who was your first childhood pet?
My first pet was a barn cat that I brought home (without asking) . She was an orange tabby ( yes a female orange tabby - genetically rare) . She was a great pet and she lived until she was 26 years old.  Interestingly I still own an orange tabby although they have both been males

6. What pets do you currently have?
Currently I have 3 whippets, one of which I have taken to confirmation shows.  I have two senior beagles that are almost 16 years old, I have a handicapped dog named Vader who gained some popularity when he was rescued and brought to touch for rehabilitation - he is 7 years old now and still doing well.  I also have my orange tabby Henry the Maincoon.

7. What is your favourite way to relax after work?
Honestly I get a lot of pleasure from playing with the whippets in the backyard.

8. What is your favourite thing about working for Touch?
I love being able to offer pet owners additional/alternative care for their pets and to be able to explain to them how therapy can benefit their pets and in some instances rid them of their injury.  We have a great team and we continue to offer a unique service to North Bay.