Culture and People
AAHA/CareCredit Employee of the Month: Erin Smith
Congratulations to Erin Smith, RVT, at Dakota Hills Veterinary Clinic in Rapid City, South Dakota, the December 2025 AAHA/CareCredit Employee of the Month!
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ERIN SMITH, RVT
Registered Veterinary Technician
Nominated By: Kendra Hanks, RVT, clinic administrator
Practice Name: Dakota Hills Veterinary Clinic
Year Started in Veterinary Medicine: 2002
Years with Current Practice: 23
Fun Fact: Dakota Hills has been accredited since 1997!
Why is Erin so awesome?
Erin is an amazing patient advocate, client educator and staff trainer. From handling complicated cases to jumping in wherever needed, Erin’s experience and devotion to making our clinic the best in the area is invaluable!.
How does she go above and beyond?
Erin was recently named Employee of the Month at our clinic for catching a serious issue on an anesthetized patient’s EKG which ultimately led to aborting the procedure and successfully recovering the patient who know has a pacemaker after being referred to a cardiologist! Erin was calm and efficient while dealing with a life threatening situation.
Why do you love your job?
I love the patients and being to help them in any way possible. I also love the human animal bond.
Tell us about your pets at home
I have two cats named Bo and Freya. They are bonded sisters. There’s never a dull moment with them around. I also have a young black Lab named Charlie. He comes to work with me every overnight shift I work.
What brought you to the profession?
Love for animals. Wanting to be able to help those who can’t speak for themselves.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
Spending time with family, playing golf, and various outdoor activities.
Favorite show?
Supernatural
Favorite celeb?
George Strait
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Dakota Hills Veterinary Clinic
Disclaimer: Trends content is meant to inform, educate, and inspire by providing an array of diverse viewpoints. Any content published should not be viewed as an official stance, position, or endorsement by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) or its Board of Directors.
