Jody

About Jody

What Inspired You to Join the Animal Field?
I've always loved animals, but I never thought I’d work in the field until I came across a social media post and thought, "Why not?" That decision changed my life—doing what you love really makes a difference!

Experience & Background

I started out as a Certified Nursing Assistant, working in long-term care, but my love for animals kept pulling me back. In high school, I volunteered at the Animal Rescue League of Marshalltown, and now I'm actively working on becoming a registered veterinary technician.

Special Skills

• I have a special love for orthopedic surgery—it’s amazing to see something so broken get put back together like magic!

Home & Hobbies

Where I’m From & Where I’ve Been
Born and raised in Marshalltown, Iowa—this has always been home!

Meet My Pets

• Milo – Beagle

• BIGGIE Smalls – Chi-Weenie

Hobbies & Interests
I love reading, looming Afghan blankets, watching baking shows and true crime documentaries, and, of course, snuggling with my pups.

Why I Love Working with Animals

The Best Part About Working with Animals
Everything! I love assisting with surgical and dental procedures, nail care, and phlebotomy—but the best part is snuggling with our patients as they wake up from surgery.

Passion in Veterinary Medicine
Orthopedic surgery fascinates me! It’s incredible how something broken—like a leg or a hip—can be fixed and made whole again.

Core Values That Shape Me

• Honesty

• Efficiency

• Humor (I love to laugh and smile!)

Life at The Hometown Veterinarian

What I Love About THV
Spending my day with animals and working with an amazing team—it’s the best of both worlds!

My Passion in My Role
As a Veterinary Assistant, I work in both surgical and dental areas. I help with pre-op and post-op care, intra-op monitoring, and even dental x-rays. I love playing a role in patient recovery and ensuring they get the best care possible.

What I Do Every Day

• Assist with surgeries and dental procedures

• Manage anesthetic agents and surgical preparation/recovery

• Maintain communication with pet owners about their pet’s surgery

• Make sure patients are comfortable with food, water, and—of course—snuggles!