Our Receptionists
Mary Ann, Clinic Administrator, Northampton
I'm Mary Ann, dog lover, author and clinic administrator at Northampton.
Prior to working at Vets Now I worked as a receptionist in a veterinary and referral centre however resigned from the position when I received a commission to write a question and answer book on dog agility training (aptly tilted ‘Agility Dog Training Questions & Answers'!!). I completed the book in August 2006 and started looking for part time work that would allow me to not only continue training and competing with my dogs in agility but also pursue future literary commissions. As I was already familiar with Vets Now and the work life balance that they offer I got in touch and before I knew it I became the clinic administrator for Vets Now Northampton!
Working in an out of hours clinic certainly keeps me on my toes. The pace is varied and I have to be ready for action as soon as the phone rings. If it doesn't, I can use the time to catch up on routine office tasks like the filing! I like the unpredictability - one minute I might be talking to someone about their missing cat the next I could be helping a member of the public through the door with a seriously injured pet. So if you want to know in advance the ups and downs of a Vets Now shift your best shot is to buy a crystal ball!
I am very lucky to be part of a fantastic team of interesting and talented people. Because there is usually only one vet, nurse and receptionist on duty at any given time, there's an opportunity to get to know everyone beyond their work personas. I have learned about their hobbies, partners and holidays in addition to their opinions on whelping bitches! No one is just a name on the rota and no one is afraid to pitch in and go the ‘extra mile' by understanding what needs to be done and taking the responsibility to see things through. And most importantly everyone takes a turn making coffee - it's just that some make a more drinkable version than others!
I'd have to say that the most fulfilling part of my job is seeing someone reunited with their pet. Every pet owner hates the thought of having to leave Rover or Tinkerbelle behind whether it be for observation or surgery. Even if the separation is necessary, it's still painful and clients fear they will never see their pet alive again. Being able to wave them both out the door and home after successful treatment is the best thing in the world!!
Finally I just want to round off by shouting out to anyone that is thinking of joining the Vets Now community because (in case you haven't already guessed) I would definitely recommend it!! After all, like me I'm sure you would rather miss out on the evening TV to have your days free to walk the dogs or go shopping! Plus you will make lots of new friends and be safe in the knowledge that you have made a real difference to someone and their pet!
