 In
a fairly remote town in the northeastern corner of Ohio, a
13-year-old girl by the name of Linda Droese took an interest in her
father’s profession. She would go to work with her father at the
Conneaut Animal Hospital where her father has practiced veterinary
medicine since 1958. She would help by cleaning kennels and
accompanying him on farm calls.
And now, 23 years later, Linda (Droese) Jackson is very active in
the Ohio Association of Veterinary Technicians (OAVT), where she has
held the position of President for the past two years. Linda has
continuously worked as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) at
her father’s hospital since 1976.
"What makes my job so rewarding is the diversity. It’s not
only animals that you deal with, but people also. Every day is a new
day – it’s never boring." Linda’s experience allows her
to aid her father not only with treating animals, but also with
client education. Linda takes great care to ensure the public
understands the different aspects of pet care. She not only educates
the public through her practice, but also can be seen lecturing at
school career days.
As an RVT in Ohio, Linda performs dental cleanings, administers
anesthesia, takes blood and urine samples and x-rays, and performs
diagnostic testing - all under the direct supervision of a Doctor of
Veterinary Medicine (DVM). Linda cautions those interested in
becoming a registered or certified veterinary technician to make
sure their school is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical
Association. (The programs are typically two years long, although
some programs take four years.) She also asks them to remember that
interpersonal skills are very important, because an RVT must deal
with both animals and the different personalities of clients.
As an active member of the OAVT, Linda’s goal is to ensure and
further promote the role of veterinary technicians for the future.
She believes RVTs are the "link" between the DVM and the
client. The RVT is necessary in explaining treatment in layman’s
terms.
Through the OAVT and the National Veterinary Technician
Association, Linda stays busy with continuing education conferences
throughout the Midwest and the East Coast. She also writes for the
column "Petpourri" on Mind Like Water’s port Liberty
Ashore. And as if this doesn’t keep her busy enough, Linda manages a local pet cemetery and takes care of a husband, two
daughters and 12 pets. That’s right – TWELVE! Linda Jackson is
certainly making waves through her dedication, care and commitment,
and should be an inspiration to us all.
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