A rewarding profession

Uli Helvoigt, owner of Tanglefoot Veterinary Services in Cranbrook, responded to our questions about her work and life

The staff of Tanglefoot Veterinary Services, and some of their lucky four-legged clients. — Kimberley Shellborn photo

Tanglefoot Veterinary Services is staffed by caring individuals who go out of their way to keep local pets healthy and happy. Owner of the clinic, Uli Helvoigt, took time out of her day to answer some questions about herself and her workplace.

What is the most rewarding part of working in veterinary medicine?

The most rewarding part of veterinary medicine for me is the variety of the profession. Not only do I deal with different species of animals, from horses to pocket pets, I get to practice numerous disciplines on a daily basis. For example, in a routine day I will practice surgery, dentistry, dermatology, emergency medicine, etc. I will see patients in the clinic and on the farm. And apart from the patients, I enjoy forming a strong relationship with my clients. Being in a smaller centre like Cranbrook, allows for more personal relationships to be built as compared to the bigger cities. 

What are your favourite activities outside of work?

My favourite activities outside of work are spending time with my family, riding my mountain bike, riding my horses, kayaking, and in the winter skiing on the Kimberley Ski Hill. 

What do you love about working and living in the Kootenays?

As mentioned above, I love the small town intimacy that Cranbrook brings. I can’t go anywhere without knowing at least someone. Sometimes I recognize people by their pets, or their pets recognize me! And apart from that I love the playground we have in our backyard. Where else can you walk out your front door and be in the wilderness within minutes?