The coronavirus pandemic has challenged us all at the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine, but none more so than our frontline workers at the Veterinary Medical Center and the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. Throughout this pandemic, we’ve watched our fellow Spartans sacrifice, persevere, and champion their work, day after day. Our community of colleagues, clients, animal lovers, and Spartan Nation are so grateful for their hard work and so admiring of their strength.
Thank you to our College community!
–Birgit Puschner, Dean
My perspective from being in during the pandemic is the hard work each employee puts in every day. When changes were asked of team members, they stepped in from all over the hospital to get jobs done. Changing work schedules and job duties, you saw real teamwork. That definitely lead to the success of the hospital during the lockdown, and other local veterinary clinics followed MSUs leadership during this pandemic.
—Stephanie Smith-Edwards, Biosafety Industrial Hygienist
I’ve seen my coworkers step up during this insane time and I am proud of all of them.
—Anonymous
With COVID-19, our nursing team has adapted in ways that extend far beyond their already complex roles as ICU nurses. And they have done so while still maintaining the highest degree of compassion and care, treating each patient as if it were their own. This demonstration of adaptability and resilience during these difficult times, is nothing short of remarkable. Although we don’t show our appreciation as often as we should, please know that we see you, we recognize the impossible tasks we ask of you, and we are humbled by the exceptional care you provide our patients. We are incredibly proud and grateful to be working alongside you. Every one of you deserved our deepest respect and appreciation.
Thank you for all that you do. ECCM House Officers.
—ECCM House Officers (reviewed by each resident)
Going to the vet is very stressful for our dogs, but Patty goes above and beyond to help make them comfortable! She’s a friendly, familiar face every time we visit, and is an AMAZING technician - her patience is infinite. I’m glad she’s an active part of our dogs’ care when we visit, and everyone could learn something from her positive attitude and attention to detail.
Thank you for all that you do!!
—Colleen & Deane Crosthwaite
I’d like to thank everyone at MSU CVM for their extraordinary efforts to reimagine veterinary education at a moment’s notice in response to COVID-19! Your commitment to high quality education and innovation are ensuring that our next generation of Veterinarians and Veterinary Nurses will be well prepared! Anyone who has ever taught at any level, knows how challenging that was! As a proud Spartan, veterinary practice owner, and member of House Omnimar, with 4 of my “work family” in the Veterinary Program right now, it’s comforting to know that our next generation is in such capable hands! This is especially true in such challenging times! I love the direction of the College under Dean Puschner and promise to support your mission in the future! Go Green!
— Bruce W. Francke, D.V.M.
Thank you for your dedication and for showing up to give your best day after day!
— Ann Schaefer, Specialist, Off-Campus Clinical Instruction
We had two Golden Retrievers treated at MSU CVM. Both dogs came to the clinic with diagnoses of cancer, and eventually passed from their conditions. And though neither dog was able to win their battle, the treatment they received was thorough, kind, and compassionate; and gave them and us more time together. We will always be grateful for the qualified and dedicated individuals at the CVM who treat all animals.
Thank you.
— Cynthia Bereznoff Chadwick ‘70
Thank you all for taking such good care of Lucy, Gus and Skylar! Our family Doctor is Dr. Engers and she cares about all our dogs so much. And Dr. Hop!! We would not have been able to keep Gus without her help. We love our MSU team and are so thankful for all of you!! Everyone there from the front desk to the pharmacy to the students to the doctors—everyone is so thoughtful and loves our dogs. Stay safe!! And PS to Dr. Engers: I am brushing their teeth!
—Kurt and Amy Ronayne Krause
Dear Fellow Spartans, I am declaring in prayer complete protection, prosperity, wisdom, and perfect health over each of and every one of you, as well as over all of your loved ones! Thank you for being role models for level-headedness, teamwork, medical excellence, and for the continued beauty of caring for those in need. It is truly an honor to be a part of such a noble profession, and especially being a Spartan veterinarian. Sending you blessings of continued encouragement and of great thanks! Go Green! Karen D. Visser, DVM ‘90 Center for Animal Health Edwardsburg, Michigan
—Karen D. Visser, DVM
My cat Baby J & I came to MSU in October of 2018 for chemo. He lost the battle the following April, but I cannot thank the team including the admin team enough for their care & kindness! We were in the best hands possible. Thank you to all of you for working during the COVID-19 pandemic to care for the four-legged friends who need you! God bless you all!
—Alicia Stone
Keep up the selfless work all of you do! I, for one, appreciate all your efforts through the years. You extended the life our Collie Max, our cats Monty, Little One, and our 20-year-old Katie, and Cocoa. You also worked your magic on our beloved dog Buddy and gave him 25 years of quality loving life. You are thought of often!! God Bless you!! Be strong! VMC!
—Yogi Mort
Thank you for your exceptional dedication to animal health, in these times as always. Your compassion and expertise have enriched the quality of life for my family’s canine companions for 30 years. From early interventions that saved several of our puppies, to surgery and rehab that allow our therapy dog to continue to give back to the community, you make a difference that extends well beyond your now guarded building. With each animal you heal, and each animal you help us compassionately say goodbye to, you touch many, many lives.
—Judith Stoddart
Our Tippy (Sheltie) was treated at MSU four years ago for lymphoma cancer and was given such love and gentle care for her last six months of life. Thank you to the dedicated doctors and nurses who treated her with their gentle care and understanding of her condition. She lasted six months longer than she would have without your care and love.
—John and Sandra Querbach