Maggie Munoz always knew she wanted to work with animals.
As a veterinary assistant at Pea Ridge Veterinary Clinic, she has the opportunity to live her dream every day.
On a crazy, busy Saturday morning at the clinic, Munoz calmly and quickly assists the veterinarian, Dr. Gary France, while serving another vet helping out that day.
She takes files, checks on the animals, double checks statuses and efficiently handles the workload.
While taking a short break, Munoz said her love for animals propelled her into a career in the veterinary field.
"I have always loved animals since I was little," Munoz said, smiling. By the time she was in junior high, Munoz thought she might end up in the veterinary field.
In high school, her interest developed when she took agriculture classes and she began to have a strong inclination to care for animals. She began her career at the clinic when she was just 16 years old, starting as a kennel worker, then working her way into a receptionist position, and finally, a veterinary assistant role. She's worked for the clinic for eight years.
Effective communication skills are key, she said, since she has to be prepared for all types of situations she experiences on any given day.
The pets and animals that come into the clinic range from being barely sick to very ill. Immunizations and well checks also are part of the day's work.
Being part of a support staff for the veterinarian is important. She quickly responds to requests and keeps the operation moving forward.
A lot of the work is, of course, behind the scenes. "Usually, it's 'Mags, Mags, Mags,'" she said, laughing, and explaining that she's always being called to various duties as situations quickly unfold.
Despite the job duties that can't be tidily compartmentalized, Munoz says the "patients" make the job rewarding.
The best part? "Working with the animals," she said, smiling.
The most difficult thing is the emotional aspect of dealing with euthanasia, she said.
At one point, Munoz did consider taking the next step and becoming a veterinarian. However, 12 years of education seemed like it would take a long time to complete.
Most importantly, Munoz feels she is making a difference in her own way. Her behind-the-scenes role is important to the success of the clinic.
"I feel like I'm in a good spot. I feel like I'm the glue."
Community on 04/05/2017