Deborah Sheffield is a veterinarian who has worked at the Calgary Trail Pet Hospital since it opened in 1999. She worked previously in Leduc Veterinary Hospital and a mixed animal practice in Manitoba where she did the primarily small animal appointments, including pocket pets and birds. She also did emergency large animal calls which made for some exciting evenings. She grew up in Wainwright, Alberta and attended Camrose Lutheran College (now Augustana) for her prevet program then completed a Bachelor of Science specializing in Zoology at the University of Alberta. She the was accepted into the Western college of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon Saskatchewan and graduated in 1992.
Becoming a vet was perhaps a natural progression from her love of animals. Her earliest childhood memory is of a mother cat carrying her kitten in her mouth. Deb’s family was home to many stray kittens and pregnant cats over the years. What may have cemented her decision to pursue veterinary medicine was when a close neighbour and friend, a senior herself, had her older dog attacked by a pitbull. Seeing him repaired and healed so he could remain her companion made her think being a vet would be a rewarding careers.
As a vet she has helped many species of animals. It has been exciting to see advancements in treatments and diagnostics and especially dental care. She has been most fortunate to see pets through the years from puppy/kitten to seniors.
Deb has children of the four legged variety; Chester, the Hobbema special shepherd cross, Jane, the escape artist lab cross, Mister, the friendly orange cat, Ginger the athlete, and Cricket the shy little girl. As her two dogs approach their senior years she can relate to the challenges faced by pet owners as their pets age.
