Lisa Jones Month
@ Cooke Vet
A Special Celebration
National Veterinary Technician Week is October 13th-19th, and while we celebrate all of our employees daily, we like to do something special for our Vet Techs during their designated week. This year, however, is a bit different. It marks the 40th anniversary of Lisa Jones dedicating her life to being a Licensed Veterinary Technician! Forty years of service is no small feat, and it certainly warrants an extra layer of celebration.
We are declaring the entire month of October 2024 as Lisa Jones Month at The Cooke Veterinary Medical Center!
When Dr. Cooke Met Lisa
I first met Lisa in May of 1998, when I was hired as a young associate veterinarian at a practice in Virginia Beach. At the time, I had just under two years of experience, while Lisa already had over 14 years under her belt. She had worked in small animal medicine, emergency medicine, large animal care, and even with exotics. Her vast experience and steady presence were a calming force for me as I navigated the early stages of my career.
From the very beginning, Lisa didn’t hesitate to mentor me. She taught me surgical procedures I hadn’t learned in vet school and calmed my nerves during surgeries. She was always there to catch things I missed, from diagnosing a large tumor on a radiograph to answering my common question, “Is this a lot of blood?” In many ways, Lisa saved me more times than I can count. Thanks to her, I became a better veterinarian.
A Legacy of Teaching and Mentorship
Over the course of her 40-year career, Lisa has coached and trained countless healers. She’s patiently guided new veterinary assistants, teaching them the skills necessary to safely and effectively care for animals.
When I opened The Cooke Veterinary Medical Center in 2002, Lisa was the first employee I hired. She believed in my vision and took the risk to build the practice together. In addition to her role as a veterinary technician, Lisa handled much of the business side of the operations. From selecting software systems to sourcing equipment, her industry knowledge and relationships helped us create a strong and sustainable business. Lisa is a true jack of all trades and has been pivotal in our growth and success.
A Legacy of Teaching and Mentorship
Over the course of her 40-year career, Lisa has coached and trained countless healers. She’s patiently guided new veterinary assistants, teaching them the skills necessary to safely and effectively care for animals.
When I opened The Cooke Veterinary Medical Center in 2002, Lisa was the first employee I hired. She believed in my vision and took the risk to build the practice together. In addition to her role as a veterinary technician, Lisa handled much of the business side of the operations. From selecting software systems to sourcing equipment, her industry knowledge and relationships helped us create a strong and sustainable business. Lisa is a true jack of all trades and has been pivotal in our growth and success.
Loyalty and Commitment to Our Mission
Over the years, many veterinarians and corporations have tried to lure Lisa away, but she has always humbly declined. Lisa believed in the vision we were creating and stayed by my side. For her loyalty and commitment, I am eternally grateful.
Lisa’s warmth and kindness have been key in helping The Cooke Veterinary Medical Center earn its reputation as “The Place for Healing.” She continues to mentor everyone in our hospital, freely sharing her knowledge and experience. With her support and guidance, she nurtures growth while teaching accountability, balancing encouragement with tough love.
The Future of Cooke Vet
Singular Mission
To change the veterinary industry from the inside out. We refuse to let corporate bottom lines overshadow the care of pets, clients, and the dedicated team of veterinary healers. As a locally-owned, woman-owned business, we have no intention of selling out to a corporation.
Continued Vision
We are committed to creating a practice where everyone—employees, clients, patients, and practice owners—can thrive. Our vision includes rewarding the veterinary healers who serve our community, creating opportunities for them to become employee-owners.
Unmatched Team
The Cooke Veterinary Medical Center is special because of the team we’ve built over the last 20 years. With leaders like Lisa Jones, we are confident in our ability to continue this success as we move into the next chapter of our organization.
