There’s no better time than RVT Month to recognize some outstanding members and stakeholders who epitomize what it means to be an RVT or support RVTs in their profession. The OAVT is excited to announce this year’s Recognition Awards recipients and shine a light on individuals and clinics who demonstrate exceptional dedication, excellence, and collaboration in the animal healthcare industry.
Scroll down to read more about the award recipients.
RVT of the Year: Deanne Smith, RVT
As this year’s RVT of the Year, Deanne Smith is a perfect example of someone who ‘worked her way up the veterinary team ladder.’ Starting her career as a groomer, then moving to clinic reception, followed by a stint as a kennel attendant, before completing her veterinary technology diploma and obtaining her RVT designation, Deanne knows what it’s like to work in almost every part of a clinic. Because of this, she treats every staff member with dignity and respect, regardless of their title. With more than 20 years of providing exemplary care to patients and their owners, she’s now requested by many of her clinic’s clients who recognize her skills and genuine approach to supporting an animal’s wellbeing. “Every day, I try to educate our clients about what RVTs do and how we’re at the heart of a veterinary team,” said Deanne. “Receiving this award means I’m doing my job right. And knowing that a new RVT nominated me warms my heart. After all these years in the profession, I’m happy that I’m still able to make a good impression on our next generation of RVTs.”
RVT Excellence: Annika Ben, RVT
With just over one year under her RVT belt, Annika Ben is already making a real impression on her team members and the animals she cares for. With a fever for knowledge, she’s always looking for ways to develop her skills and build her confidence. Having a real passion for her profession and a positive mindset, it’s no wonder her team members feel inspired by her and are excited to watch her RVT journey unfold. “To me, being an RVT means that I can advocate for those who can’t speak for themselves,” said Annika. “This award shows that my dedication to each and every furry friend I see in the clinic is acknowledged. It also makes me want to continue learning and improving every day in my amazing career that I truly love.”
Outstanding Contribution: Martha Little, RVT
Over the past 20 years, Martha Little has made a real name for herself, not only as an RVT but as a respected RVT ambassador in the animal health industry. She has worked to raise the profile of the RVT profession in veterinary clinics, with animal product and food suppliers, and with veterinary distribution companies. And she’s been a coach to many. From new RVTs entering the profession to individuals who have been in the industry for many years, she’s always happy to share her experiences and knowledge to positively influence the welfare of animals. Her dedication to her profession is evident to everyone who meets her, as is her belief in the essential role that RVTs play in animal healthcare. After being notified that she was a 2023 award recipient, Martha commented that she was extremely humbled to have been selected. “But I didn’t do it alone,” she said. “There are numerous RVTs, veterinarians, and veterinary healthcare teams I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years who have taught me so much. But one thing is for sure. No matter what role I’ve held or will hold in the future, I’ll always be an RVT first and foremost in my mind.”
Best in Practice Award: Presqu’ile Animal Hospital
As a small animal practice, Presqu’ile Animal Hospital is a big supporter of enabling RVTs to contribute to their fullest potential. Whether in surgeries or regular appointments, RVTs are invited to provide their input and are consistently given opportunities to utilize whatever special skills they have developed. From dentistry to palliative care, each RVT is encouraged to have an area of expertise, which is a big win for the hospital’s patients and their families. Ensuring staff have a healthy work-life balance is also at the core of how the hospital operates. Every month, team members participate in a fun and unique “staff bonding” activity, which is just one way the practice owner and manager strive to cultivate a positive and collaborative environment. “We have a goal at the hospital to make sure every member of our team feels valued, supported, and appreciated,” said Practice Manager, Stephanie Bedard. “Investing in our team members has helped our hospital to grow, and keeps our staff engaged. Receiving this award solidifies our belief in the importance of not only supporting our patients but everyone who helps care for them. This award is such an incredible honour.”
Veterinarian Appreciation: Dr. Brian Willows, Thousand Island Veterinary Services
For RVTs, working with a supportive and appreciative veterinarian can be the difference between having a job and having a career that ignites a passion. Anyone who has worked with Dr. Brian Willows knows him as a veterinarian who advocates for RVTs and encourages them to grow their skills and careers. Having a real compassion for animals and their owners, he also has a knack for fostering positive and genuine relationships with all of his staff, treating each as an important part of his life. In fact, one RVT who worked with Dr. Willows for many years, credits him as being the reason she stayed in the profession as long as she has. When it comes to training new DVMs, Dr. Willows makes sure they all understand the numerous roles that RVTs can have in a clinic, the expertise they bring as highly trained professionals, and how much more efficiently a clinic can run when RVTs are fully utilized. When he learned about being selected to receive the Veterinarian Appreciation Award, Dr. Willows said the news was a real “career topper” for him. “Veterinarians are often thought of as, and designated, the leader of the veterinary healthcare team. In my view, it’s a good RVT that’s at the very core of that team,” said Dr. Willows. “DVMs reap the rewards of a successful diagnosis or surgery, yet it’s the RVT who enabled the DVM to do the diagnostic research or focus on the critical surgery,” he said. “RVTs simply make things go right.”
Volunteer of the Year: Leslie Reid, RVT
For many organizations, volunteers are an important resource in a myriad of ways. As a member association and regulatory body, the OAVT relies on volunteers to help raise awareness about the profession and support us in meeting various goals and objectives. As our largest initiative, the annual OAVT Conference is a popular event that could not be successfully delivered without the help of numerous volunteers. One of those volunteers is Leslie Reid, Lead Moderator and proud RVT. Thanks to her patience, resourcefulness, sense of humour, and willingness to lend a hand wherever she was needed, Conference 2023 was a huge success. As the first in-person conference since COVID, there were some inevitable obstacles and growing pains for conference organizers. But with Leslie as the Lead, helping to manage volunteers, shepherd presenters, and direct delegates, the event ran as planned. “Receiving this award has left me feeling overwhelmed with gratitude,” said Leslie. “I love volunteering at the OAVT Conference because it gives me the chance to meet RVTs from all over the province. It’s also rewarding knowing that I’m making a positive difference in people’s conference experience.”