I think I was always destined to work with animals and have loved them for as long as I can remember. My dad worked for Parks Victoria and he would often bring animals home for us to take care of, including – koalas, echidnas, seabirds, possums, even a seal. I have always been a cat person and even loved them before I could talk. When I was very young I used to point at cats and try and imitate their sounds – because I didn’t have any words to describe them.
Before I went to university, I volunteered at the RSPCA in cat quarantine. It was hard work and a big eye opener, but it was also very rewarding, and I loved it. I was desperate for all the cats to pass the test and go to loving homes and would spend lots of time trying to help them to open up. My brother told me about the first ever cat only clinic in Melbourne and told me that I should put my resume in, even though they weren’t advertising a job. Thankfully I did, they called, and I was hired soon after. I loved it from the moment I stepped through the door and haven’t left after 17+ wonderful years.
My goal with every single cat that I meet is to calmly approach them and try to make them comfortable. I understand it’s hard to be in a different environment especially at a veterinary clinic. I believe that every cat deserves to be given the time and space to trust you – obviously, that won’t happen instantly, so we need to be patient and understand that each cat is different and needs to be approached accordingly, but always with love and kindness.
I have one cat called Dimity. I used to foster cats for a rescuer and Dimity was one of them. I knew she needed special attention as soon as I saw her. She was rescued when she was 10 months old and was absolutely terrified of everything! I knew she needed someone special to look after her as she was so timid.She is still timid but also such a sweet cat. She used to walk into the room I was in and start purring. She just loves being loved and demands pats all the time. It takes her a long time to trust someone but when she does, she loves you with all of her heart. Unfortunately she isn't the brightest girl, but I love her anyway. Dimity means the absolute world to me. I could not imagine my life without a furry foot step behind me. Dimity and I have been through so much together and I couldn't have done it without my beautiful girl by my side every day. She makes me so happy and brings smiles to my face every day with her cute antics and sweetness.
I love the simple pleasures in life like picnics, walks, the forest, a good book, coffee, movies, and the winter months when I can curl up with a blanket and my girls.
