Yes queen! Celebrating the women of veterinary medicine

The future is female. This is especially true in the world of veterinary medicine, where the majority of the profession is made up of women. That's why, in honor of International Women's Day, we asked some of our favorite movers and shakers of the veterinary profession for their thoughts and advice.

Read on to find inspiration and to celebrate the wonderful women of this wonderful profession!

What one message do you have for the women of veterinary medicine?

"Be open to opportunities that you may not even anticipate would come your way." -Robin Downing, DVM, DAAPM, DACVSMR, CVPP, CCRP, CVA, MS

"You are your single greatest asset. Invest accordingly." –Sarah Wooten, DVM

"You can do it all, just not all at the same time. Pace yourself for a career with longevity." –Tasha McNerny, BS, CVT, CVPP, VTS (anesthesia and analgesia)

"You do you. Put your oxygen mask on first, then and only then assist others." –Danielle Russ, LVT, BS, BA, AS

 What advice would you give for the next generation of female vet professionals?

"Don't wait for an opportunity to come your way, make your own path." –Tasha McNerny

"Whatever you do, don't be afraid to pursue practice ownership– you can create your own niche in the marketplace that is as unique as you are." –Dr. Sarah Wooten

"Be bold and courageous. Find a mentor. Live out your passion. Don't let anyone stop you!" –Kimberly-Ann Therrien, DVM

"Loving animals isn't enough to be a good veterinarian. You have to also love the people and the business." –Dani McVety, DVM

"Build your resiliency. Failure is normal and the place we get the most growth." –Danielle Russ

"Passion and fear are closely related. When you embrace your passion and accept your fear, great things will happen!" –Mary Berg, BS, LATG, RVT, VTS (dentistry)

What can women in vet med do to help other women?

"Once and for all, drop the notion that just because you suffered means that younger women have to suffer. Stop being petty and jealous-that is beneath us. That holds us back and slows progress. Celebrate each other's victories, be a safe place to share failures, and straighten each other's crowns without saying a thing." –Dr. Sarah Wooten

"Help lift each other-do not judge, do not assume, do not gossip. Instead inspire, applaud, motivate and celebrate each other." –Dr. Kimberly-Ann Therrien

"Practice supporting each other, and avoid assuming that we are in competition. We are all in this for the same reason, to help the animals and their people thrive." –Dr. Dani McVety

"Encourage and empower, stop with the shaming and criticism." –Tasha McNerney

"Be Kind to one another." –Danielle Russ

"Lift each other up and encourage each other every day!" –Mary Berg