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Jun 17
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Dr. Eric Howlett Joins Dodgeville Veterinary Service

By Uncategorized No Comments

Dr. Eric Howlett joined Dodgeville Veterinary Service in June 17, 2019.  He graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 2018, followed by the completion of an internship in small animal primary care at the University of Wisconsin.  During his internship, Dr. Eric focused his training on the human-animal bond, low-cost medicine for underserved communities, and pet nutrition. Before becoming a veterinarian, Dr. Eric received a PhD in Biochemistry and Cell Biology from Rice University in Houston, TX, and worked in academic and industry research in the fields of developmental neurogenetics, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and analgesic pharmacology.  

“I left research because I felt too far removed from actually helping other people,” says Dr. Eric. “ In vet medicine, I get to work directly with people every day to help keep their fur-family healthy and happy.”

Dr. Eric grew up in Houston, TX, but is proud to call Wisconsin home.  When he isn’t taking care of fur babies, Dr. Eric enjoys international travel, backpacking, roller derby, and gardening.  Dr. Eric and his wife Bethany (a human family medicine physician) live on a 17 acre homestead in Mount Horeb with their 3 dogs (Chief, Lupini, and Aberforth), 3 cats (George Weasley, Oliver Wood, and Sirius Black), 9 pygora goats, 2 beehives, and 2 pet Holstein cows.  ​

Jun 01
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Fear Free Certified: But What Does That Mean?

By Cats, Dogs No Comments

Many of our team members are Fear Free certified and we are very proud of that. But what does that really mean for you and your pet?

Fear Free training is a continuing education opportunity for professionals in the veterinary field. Founded by Dr. Marty Becker, DVM, their mission is to “prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety, and stress in pets by inspiring and educating the people who care for them.”

Our Fear Free certified team members have completed training that has shown them the best ways to approach, handle, and treat your pet to not only make the visit less stressful but maybe even something to look forward to!

We have taken the Fear Free approach and built many of our standard procedures around it! We consider the experience of visiting our clinic from the perspective of each pet that visits. By providing a calming atmosphere with pheromone bandanas, quiet and relaxing rooms and waiting areas, and friendly staff each pet can have the best opportunity to have a low stress and positive visit.
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We are so happy to be able to provide a Fear Free experience to your furry family members. If you are looking for resources to continue Fear Free practices at home here are links to Fear Free and Dr. Marty Becker’s blogs:
https://fearfreehappyhomes.com/blog/
https://www.drmartybecker.com/blog/