Alyssa knew from a young age she was destined to work with animals, always seeking to understand why animals behave in the ways that they do. Growing up Alyssa always had pets, but she took a special interest in wildlife and earned a bachelor’s degree in wildlife science at Virginia Tech. She spent several summers working with graduate student researchers as a black bear technician, which sparked her interest in pursuing a career in medicine; her role as team leader on those projects helped her realize her passion for mentorship and education. Alyssa spent over a decade working in every clinic role from veterinary assistant to practice manager, but the title and position she’s most proud to hold is licensed veterinary technician.

Since hearing Dr. Marty Becker speak about Fear Free prior to its official release, Alyssa has been actively and enthusiastically contributing to Fear Free’s mission to “take the ‘pet’ out of ‘petrified’” by showing coworkers the many benefits of Fear Free, and serving as a Fear Free Speaker, Practice Certification Consultant, and Coach. She led her two-location practice through Fear Free Veterinary Practice Certification in 2021 and in 2022 decided to become a Double Hokie, virtually returning to Virginia Tech to complete her master’s degree in applied animal behavior and welfare.

When she’s not busy learning all she can about animal behavior and sharing her knowledge and expertise with fellow veterinary professionals, Alyssa enjoys spending time with her family, running (she’s a Marathon Maniac!), and traveling. She currently shares her home (and desk) with a tortie named Pixie, but will always carry the love and lessons she received from Chloe (a sweet and spicy calico) and Mak (the most perfect brown mutt) in all that she does.