About
Susan is a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) with over six years of hands-on experience in the veterinary field. She earned her Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology from Columbus State Community College in Columbus, Ohio in 2020, soon after passing the Veterinary Technician National Examination and earning her credentialed status.
Her other professional credentials reflect her dedication to high standards of care: she is certified as a Cat Friendly Veterinary Professional through the Feline Veterinary Medical Association and holds Elite Fear Free certification in low-stress animal handling from Fear Free Pets. Additionally, she is a certified Pet Nutrition Coach, with credentials from both the North American Veterinary Community and the Purina Institute.
Susan’s passion for feline care has guided her career path—she has spent most of her veterinary career working in feline-exclusive specialty clinics before moving into emergency and critical care in 2024. She previously spent over 7 years as a weekly volunteer at a local shelter in Ohio helping cats find forever homes, and has been providing cat sitting services since 2021 through Rover and Meowtel platforms. She is formally trained in pet first aid and CPR, as well as multiple aspects of nursing care and medication administration.
In mid-2023, Susan relocated from central Ohio to Florida with one goal in mind: to leave snowy winters behind for good. She now lives with her two beloved senior cats, Mocha Bean and Willow, in Daytona Beach.
Why choose a Certified Veterinary Technician?
Choosing a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) for your cat’s care ensures your pet receives knowledgeable, compassionate, and professional support grounded in veterinary medicine. CVTs are formally educated, tested, and licensed professionals trained in multiple aspects of animal health, behavior, and nursing care. They are skilled in recognizing signs of illness, reducing fear and stress during handling, and providing high-quality wellness services.
What is a Cat Friendly Veterinary Professional?
A Cat Friendly Veterinary Professional® (CFVP) is a veterinary technician, nurse, or team member who has completed specialized training through the Feline Veterinary Medical Association (FelineVMA) to enhance feline care. This certification focuses on understanding feline behavior, reducing stress during veterinary visits, and implementing cat-friendly handling techniques. The program covers topics such as feline behavior, stress reduction strategies, preventive care, and palliative care. Upon completion, professionals are equipped to create a more comfortable and positive experience for feline patients and their caregivers.
To learn more, refer to the FelineVMA Certificate program
What is Fear Free?
Fear Free handling is a veterinary approach designed to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress in animals, with certifications available for different animal-care professions. It focuses on creating a calm environment, using gentle handling techniques, and reading animal body language to improve the overall experience for pets and their owners.
Elite Fear Free certification in the veterinary setting (Elite FFCP-V) is the highest level of training offered by Fear Free Pets. It signifies advanced knowledge and consistent application of Fear Free principles across multiple areas of veterinary care, demonstrating a strong commitment to the emotional well-being of animals.
To learn more, refer to the Fear Free website
What is a Pet Nutrition Coach?
A Pet Nutrition Coach (PNCC) certified by the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) is a veterinary professional trained to provide expert guidance on pet nutrition. This certification covers topics such as pet nutrition fundamentals, conducting nutritional assessments, understanding pet food regulations, and debunking common myths about pet diets. These professionals are equipped to offer informed, customized nutritional advice to pet owners, thereby improving pet health and strengthening client relationships.
To learn more, refer to the NAVC website
All feline pictures featured on this website are of happy cats cared for and photographed by Susan during various pet sitting adventures, or are of Susan’s own kitties.