vSCHROEDER continued from page 13 wonderful pets. She feels that there are wonderful, responsible breeders with a beautiful, healthy line of dogs but unfortunately there are also breeders that are irresponsible and create puppies that have congenital disorders and health problems. She advises, “Like anything in this world, there are lots of both good and bad folks out there, do your research. We work closely with Heartland Humane Society as well and there are lots of wonderful mutts and cats out there that just need some love.” Schroeder enjoys seeing the pet industry evolve to include preventative care and what she refers to as “fire engine” medicine. She explains, “People are trying to make sure that their pet’s health is monitored to detect any changes early so that we can help slow or stop these things before they cause a reduction in quality or quantity of life. We have tried to help educate our clients that every 6 months for us equals about 3.5 years to your pet and a lot can change in your pet’s health over the course of a half a year. However, if detected early, many of these things can be corrected or controlled with diet changes, supportive therapies and non-invasive modalities, keeping your beloved furry family member happier and healthier longer!” She believes that the pet industry is leading toward individualized patient care. Each animal is different, with no one animal having the same genetics, family, lifestyle or exposure to disease as another. She explains one household may include a variety of indoor and outdoor pets. Because each of these pets will have different diets and maintenance needs, it is up to your veterinarian to make individual recommendations for each pet based on their individual needs and history. “That is where we feel our clinic is really on the cutting edge. There are core health concerns for each species and recommendations that the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) makes, but it is the veterinarian who puts all the pieces of puzzle together and customizes that program to YOUR pet,” she states. Compassion, fairness, thinking outside the box, and not being afraid of change are Schroeder’s best attributes, and said she has been known to try to do too many things at once. Her children are her pride, Schroeder crediting them for being the reason to push through the tough days and do it with a smile. “Those boys are the best thing that I have or ever will do,” she explains. She manages to find time for one of her main hobbies in her busy lifestyle, remodeling and designing buildings. She has remodeled all three CCVS clinics and her personal farmhouse and is currently remodeling the Globe building in Hartington, NE. This will be the new home of their vintage/antique store, The Rusty Mustang, which is currently located in the back of the Yankton clinic. It will also serve as the home to The Globe Clothing Company which will offer boutique style clothing and The Globe Interiors, decor and home accessories. Though Dr. Schroeder has many items to balance: a family, children, activities and a growing veterinarian business, it appears like she’s found the ideal balance judging by her success. The traits she inherited from her parents have proven that hard work and determination could turn a young girl’s dream in to a reality. vBy Julie Eickhoff THE BEST PLACE FOR YOUR BABY When you find out you are expecting, don’t travel for prenatal care. The best care for you and your baby is right here at home at Sanford Vermillion. Our team of family medicine experts is here to provide expert OB care throughout your entire pregnancy and delivery. Plus we offer free prenatal classes so you are ready for life with your new baby. To schedule an appointment, call (605) 677-3700. Mary Jo Olson, MD BE STRONG. BE HEALTHY. BE YOU. 018027-00281 11/16 16vHERVOICEvMARCH/APRIL 2017 Anastasia Searcy, DO Heather Kleeman, DO