How NVA helped Dr. Cluck go from tech to vet at Arizona Avenue Animal Clinic

For Dr. Ashlynn Cluck, becoming a veterinarian at Arizona Avenue Animal Clinic isn't just a new job; it's a homecoming.

Born and raised in Arizona, Dr. Cluck got her start at Arizona Avenue Animal Clinic long before earning her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, working alongside the very team she now returns to as a veterinarian. Her path took her across the country for veterinary school and clinical training, but as a lifelong Arizonan, she always knew she wanted to bring her skills back home.

How did NVA support you in your journey from vet tech to veterinarian?

NVA invested in my growth from the very beginning. The doctors encouraged me to learn by involving me in appointments, asking me questions, and challenging me to think like a veterinarian. I also had the opportunity to sit in on ultrasound appointments with our Director of Doctors and work as a surgery technician, which gave me invaluable hands-on experience.

Having mentors who believed in me and pushed me to grow played a huge role in helping me become the veterinarian I am today. When it came time to choose where to start my career, there was no place I’d rather be than with the team that believed in me from the very beginning.

What's one thing you learned as a tech that has made you a better veterinarian today?

Working as a technician taught me just how invaluable technicians are to our profession. Because I’ve been in their shoes, I have a deep respect for everything they do and know the importance of making them feel valued. It also allows me to jump in and help with blood draws, nail trims, filling medications, and client communication whenever needed. That experience has made me a better teammate and, ultimately, a better veterinarian.

How has NVA supported your growth and development as a new DVM?

NVA supported my growth long before I became a DVM. Throughout veterinary school, they sponsored my placement ceremony at Ross University, surprised my class with great NVA merch, supported my NVA externship by helping with moving expenses, and always welcomed me back to shadow and continue learning. As a new veterinarian, I’ve also been paired with an amazing mentor through NVA’s mentorship program who is always there to answer questions and offer guidance whenever I need it. That support has made the transition from student to veterinarian incredibly rewarding.

What are you most looking forward to as you grow your career at Arizona Avenue Animal Clinic and with NVA?

I’m excited to continue growing with Arizona Avenue Animal Clinic and NVA because there are so many opportunities to learn from incredible doctors and mentors. As a technician, I met several veterinarians who grew into leadership roles while still having the support of NVA behind them. I think NVA does a great job of showing that “corporate” doesn’t have to mean impersonal. Each hospital has its own unique culture and individuality, while still benefiting from the resources, mentorship, and support that NVA provides. I’m excited to continue growing within an organization that truly invests in its people.

More about Dr. Cluck:

Dr. Ashlynn Cluck earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine and completed her clinical training at the University of Missouri Veterinary Health Center. Although veterinary school took her across the country, she is thrilled to be back home serving the Arizona community.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Cluck enjoys spending time with her husband and their furry family, which includes their dog, Toby, and three cats, Smokey, Beatrice, and Hazel. She also loves reading fantasy novels, cooking and baking, relaxing by the pool, and making memories with family and friends.

Dr. Cluck looks forward to building lasting relationships with clients and providing compassionate, high-quality care to every patient she meets.