Dr. Kirchart enjoys all aspects of caring for animals but excels in the areas of soft tissue surgery and abdominal ultrasonography. Her clients speak of her compassion and willingness not to end any appointment without answering every question and thoroughly explaining her treatment plan. She relishes her time with her family and friends at the beach and enjoys world travel. When she is not with her family, husband John, children Jack and Reagan, and their Pug Lincoln, she enjoys a long jog and likes to catch up on the latest “tea,” `a la the Bravo Channel.
Where did you go to veterinary school?
I graduated from Penn State University in 1998 and went on to the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, graduating with a VMD in 2002. After my graduation in the summer of 2002, I started interviewing for an associate small animal veterinarian position around the East Coast area. I interviewed here at Columbia Pike Animal Hospital and felt it was a good fit. I have felt this way ever since.
Why I Chose Veterinary Medicine
The reason I chose a career in veterinary medicine dates back to when I was younger. My parents were breeders of St. Bernards. I would travel with them to the veterinarian for various vaccine appointments, pregnancies, and follow-ups. I just loved it. I started working at the veterinary office, cleaning kennels, walking dogs, and gradually made my way up to assisting with surgeries. I never lost sight of that career.
What I Love About My Job at Columbia Pike Animal Hospital and Emergency Center.
I really love working at a job where I don't always have to sit behind a desk. I love that every day is different. I never know what's going to walk through the door. I also love that I learn something new every week.
Another great aspect of this job is that our hospital keeps up with advances in veterinary medicine, allowing us to pass that knowledge on to the client and their pets.
Tell us more about your family and hobbies.
In my free time, I am a wife and a mom of three kids. My personal hobbies used to be running and traveling, but now there's less time for that. I spend a lot of my time taking care of my kids, carting them around to their activities. We still find time to travel and go on great vacations. I love the beach and swimming in the ocean.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I have come to value more the interaction with the owners. When I talk to them, educate them about their pets, or help them through their animal's illnesses, making the pet better also brings happiness to the owners. I find great value in making them happy.