Pet owners recognize stellar veterinarians in the 2008 Thank Your Vet for a Healthy Pet Contest.
|
Sponsored By |
 |
|
Every pet owner knows that when your dog is feeling down, there is only one person to call. Veterinarians are invaluable in the animal world, and they deserve our thanks.
For the second annual Thank Your Vet for a Healthy Pet Contest, the Morris Animal Foundation, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, and BowTie Inc. asked great pet owners like you to thank your veterinarians by writing a short essay about their exceptional work, compassion, and commitment to your pets’ healthcare. Pet owners across the country responded, and it is our pleasure to announce the national grand-prize winner, plus the four regional finalists.
Congratulations to the winners, and thanks to all exceptional veterinarians everywhere for their commitment to giving our dogs healthier, happier, longer lives.
National Winner Rachel S. Boltz, DVM, M.S.
Rachel S. Boltz, DVM, is an outstanding veterinarian, caring for pets with kindness and concern. She is this year’s national grand-prize winner, and the regional finalist in the West.
Nominated by Lisa Lotti of San Jose, Calif., Boltz has helped Lotti and many patients as an associate senior veterinarian at Adobe Animal Hospital in Los Altos, Calif. “Dr. Boltz understands what animals mean to their humans,” Lotti writes in her nomination essay. As the director of Unconditional Love Animal Rescue and Placement, Lotti has taken over 600 animals to see Boltz, and each was treated with professionalism and thoroughness.
When Lotti’s Boxer died in his sleep, Boltz left work, went to Lotti’s home, hugged her, and took the dog back to the clinic where she handled all the arrangements. “I will remain grateful for this extension of compassion throughout my lifetime,” Lotti writes.
From the age of 7, Boltz wanted to be a veterinarian. Today, she is a passionate healthcare provider who works with many rescue groups. “It is very gratifying to help improve a family’s life by improving the life of their pet,” Boltz says. She is committed to her work, offering her personal e-mail to clients for questions anytime.
“Tough cases are no match for Dr. Boltz — she will leave work, go home, and spend as many hours as it takes to figure out the diagnosis and treatment plan,” Lotti writes. “I have often received calls on her days off, or late at night, with assessment results and treatment options.”
Boltz values education and says a good veterinarian takes lifelong learning seriously, as the veterinary field is always changing and constant education is paramount to delivering thorough medical care. It is that very dedication that has earned her the grand prize.
“I am incredibly honored and humbled to know that some of my clients think enough of me to submit an essay on my behalf,” Boltz says. “It means a great deal to me to win something that starts from my direct interaction with clients.”
As a veterinarian, Boltz has helped many animals and as a person, she has inspired many humans. “She is brilliant, kind, and has the highest standards for herself and the veterinary profession,” Lotti writes. “If you are looking for an absolute star in the veterinary field, you need to look no further. This woman is amazing.”
- Read about the 2007 Thank Your Vet winner -