How do you inspire learning within your practice?
September 2, 2025 · COMMUNITY

Continuous learning isn't just beneficial—it's essential for delivering exceptional veterinary care.
We asked hospital leaders in Michigan to share how they foster a culture of growth and education within their teams. Their approaches are creating more engaged staff, better patient outcomes, and stronger practice cultures. Here's what they shared.
Support individual passions and career growth. 🌱
"We encourage curiosity, collaboration, and ongoing education. We encourage our staff to pursue their individual passions within veterinary medicine by seeking out continuing education opportunities, and we support them as they grow and develop their skills within the practice.”
Gemma DeGelder, Hospital Manager, Haven Animal Hospital
Build a learning culture by mentoring the next generation. 🎓
"We host veterinary students in general medicine and surgery to make sure our new graduates are graduating with the best background we can! This has created an environment where learning is integral and has attracted employees who want to learn."
Dr. Karyn Houser, Managing Veterinarian, Glenpark Animal Hospital

Stay current with innovative techniques. 💡
"We prioritize keeping up to date on novel therapies and medical techniques—like when we partnered with a local rescue for our 'spay day,' using the latest High Quality High Volume Spay/Neuter techniques to help over 30 cats and dogs."
Dr. Molly Houle, Medical Director, Great Lakes Hospital for Animals
Partner with vendors to make learning engaging and convenient. 🍽️
"We partner with our vendors and schedule 'lunch and learns,' so the team can gain new knowledge while enjoying a meal together. It's a great way to make learning engaging, interactive, and connected to our daily work."
Deanna Fischer, Hospital Manager, Rochester Veterinary Hospital

Create dedicated time for collaborative learning. 📚
"Every other month, our doctors come together for morbidity and mortality rounds, where they collaborate on difficult cases from the past month. They share any knowledge they may have gleaned while treating recent patients."
Dr. Corinne Herman, Managing Veterinarian, Lakeview Animal Hospital