Culture and People
AAHA/CareCredit Employee of the Month: Hattie Kirby
Congratulations to Hattie Kirby, veterinary assistant at Rose City Veterinary Hospital in Portland, Oregon, the November 2025 AAHA/CareCredit Employee of the Month!
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HATTIE KIRBY
Veterinary Assistant
Nominated By: Drea Hutchinson, exam room supervisor
Practice Name: Rose City Veterinary Hospital
Nominee specialties: Fear Free Certified; Feline Low Stress Handling
Year Started in Veterinary Medicine: 2020
Years with Current Practice: 5
Why is Hattie so awesome?
In the past 5 years, Hattie Kirby has worked her way from being a kennel attendant to being a versatile and vital team member who can work at the front desk, as an exam room assistant, and as a technician assistant in the treatment area. Her passion for providing the best medicine for every patient we serve is incredible and appreciated.
How does she go above and beyond?
Hattie goes above and beyond by not only providing great care for the patients we see every day in the hospital but also volunteering with a local rescue organization and helping to save lives by getting patients the care they need in cases where clients are unable to provide for their needs.
Hattie has independently created written educational resources for clients to help them make healthy decision in terms of diet and general care.
Why do you love your job?
I love nothing more than client communication, getting on the same level and understanding exactly what someone may be experiencing and feeling during the nerve wracking time that is visiting the vet.
I also love the mystery side of the profession. Being able to put together different treatment plans and differentials based on how a pet may present. Always so rewarding when we get to change a life for the better.
As I discovered my love for Vet Med and client services, I also found a deep love for Feline rehab and rescue, this is what I commit most of my time to outside of work.
Every pet I see means just as much to me as my own. However I am able to help navigate ownership and provide resources that can help clients and patients stay their happiest. That is when I feel I have done my best job.
Tell us about your pets at home
I have 6 cats of my own! I love them all more than anything. I have my cat who started my love of felines, GG (15yo), Binks, my Siamese sweetheart! My ragdoll named poppy, my male calico named Freddie, and my mama cat and her son Rex!!
What brought you to the profession?
I have loved, connected with, and understood animals on a deeper level for as long as I can remember. I have always wanted to be a veterinarian and that was one of my favorite imaginary games to play as a child. I have always felt deep compassion and empathy for what people around me may be experiencing. The privilege of guiding someone through a difficult time is something that means a lot to me. My clients are my family and I treat them as such. Showing up for patients on a day I may not even be scheduled to work, just to help them and show them a familiar face. I cannot imagine ever working in a different field.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
I spend most of my time outside of work doing rescue work on the feline side of Northwest Animal Companions!
I also enjoy spending time with family, eating a great meal, and spending time with my boyfriend and his dog Marvin!
Favorite show?
It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia!
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Rose City Veterinary Hospital
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.
