Jennie Tait, AHT, RVT, VTS (Dermatology)

This week, the OAVT connected with Jennie Tait who will be presenting two sessions in the Specialty – Dermatology track at the upcoming OAVT Conference. We asked Jennie a series of questions, inviting her to share more about her current role and past experiences.

Jennie became a Registered Veterinary Technician at the first seating for what is now the Veterinary Technician National Examination and holds RVT certificate #4. Over 24 years at OVC saw her working in Large Animal Surgery, teaching in Surgical Exercises, Small Animal Surgery, Ophthalmology, and finally settling in 19 years ago, as the dermatology service technician, assisting with the instruction of final year students. Jennie also has the privilege of being the first non-faculty member in the history of the OVC, to be an honorary class president, for the graduating class of 1999. She is a Charter Member and Regent for the Academy of Dermatology Veterinary Technicians and is currently the only VTS (Dermatology) in Canada.

What do you think is the best part of your job?

Seeing our patients happy and healthy again. That actually hinges on client education, which is another part of my job that I love. I also love working up cases and being part of formulating treatment plans… I just love my job! 

Can you brief a unique case that you handled?

I’ve been fortunate to be involved in the care of many animals, including marine mammals and even a lion! It’s crazy how big they are and how much they trust their handlers. It’s a real testament to the animal-human bond.

What makes you special in the animal healthcare industry?

Probably the longevity of my career and the different places it’s taken me. I’ve been practicing for over 35 years now, which includes working in general practice, teaching at the Ontario Veterinary College, and working in referral practice. I was part of writing what is now the VTNE, and a Charter Member of the Academy of Veterinary Dermatology Technicians. I’m staggered by the number of techs that leave veterinary medicine when there are so many avenues to explore. If you’re not happy, keep looking. It took me 14 years to find my love of dermatology.

Speakers

Speaker Highlight

Jennie Tait, AHT, RVT, VTS (Dermatology)

Hear more from Jennie Tait on March 3, 2022 during the Specialty – Dermatology track!

OAVT Conference