Celebrating Veterinarian’s Week 2026

Jul 28, 2026

Veterinarian's Week 2026 Blog Header

Last week was Veterinarian’s Week (July 19-25), a week we are especially proud of, because we started it! Encore Vet Group created this week to make sure the doctors who lead our medical teams, guide our clients, and show up for our patients every single day get the recognition they deserve.

Being a veterinarian is not just about medicine. It is confidence built one hard case at a time, it is teaching and mentoring, and it is bringing genuine heart to every exam room. We asked our practices to brag on their doctors. Here is what they had to say!

Watching Confidence Bloom at Winterville Animal Care

The Associate Practice Manager at Winterville Animal Care wanted to give a huge shoutout to Dr. Victoria McGee:

“Being able to watch Dr. McGee become a more confident veterinarian over the last year has been incredible. Coming into an established practice as a new graduate has to be terrifying and she has handled the transition with such grace. Dr. McGee comes in every day with a smile on her face, she takes the time to learn about every staff member and truly cares about all of us here at Winterville Animal Care. Whether it’s a gift from conference for a staff pet, a funny TikTok to share that made her think of someone, or just words of encouragement throughout the day, her main goal is to keep vibes high and help our patients. I am so lucky and grateful to work for her and can not wait to watch her grow!”

Growth like this is what makes new graduates so exciting to welcome into a practice, and Dr. McGee is a perfect example of the confident, compassionate veterinarian that growth can shape!

A Steady Partner at Veterinary Emergency Center

At Veterinary Emergency Center, the Practice Manager shared just how much Dr. Cole carries for her team:

“Dr. Cole is my partner in crime and the telazol to my euthanasia solution. I could not do this job without her by my side. I am so proud of her for all she has done to keep the clinic strong and to always find things to laugh with me about. Happy Veterinarian’s Week Cole Cole!”

Being the a full-time DVM and Medical Director at an ER practice is no small feat, and finding the laughter along the way makes it that much more impressive. Happy Veterinarian’s Week, Cole Cole!

A Whole Team of Standouts at Byron Center Animal Hospital

The team at Byron Center Animal Hospital gave a shoutout to their entire lineup!

Dr. Gen Kluver is so passionate and compassionate. She does everything in her power and more to ensure every patient is taken care of, and she sees reptiles! She is so full of knowledge about reptile care that you cannot help but be in awe, and she is always happy to teach and offer guidance to anyone around her.

Dr. Clara Jurik is so good with reactive dogs. The patience and care she takes to help them feel less fearful is beyond amazing, and she is an absolute pleasure to learn from.

Dr. Phoebe Miedema is fun and knowledgeable. She takes great care of patients and clients love her. She always has good, wholesome jokes and really knows her stuff, and it shows just how much she loves what she does.

Dr. Aislinn Klein has been a wonderful addition to the team. She goes above and beyond for patients, even finding creative ways to keep a bandage on in the trickiest spots.

Dr. Catie Southerton is a wonderful person and amazing doctor who is so good at educating clients. She brings so much light to the clinic, her laughter is contagious, and she is never afraid to jump in and help the front desk when things get busy.

Leading With Grace at Veterinary Care Services of Milford

The Practice Manager at Veterinary Care Services of Milford shared a beautiful tribute to Dr. Tokar:

“Dr. Tokar is the heart of Veterinary Care Services. Her unwavering compassion for every patient, genuine kindness toward every client, and support of her team make her truly one of a kind. She leads not only with exceptional medical knowledge, but with humility, grace, and a deep commitment to doing what is best for every animal entrusted to her care. She inspires those around her to be better every day, always willing to teach, encourage, and lend a helping hand. Her dedication, integrity, and selfless leadership have shaped the culture of VCS in countless ways, and we are profoundly grateful to work alongside someone who gives so much of herself to the animals, their families, and her coworkers. Dr. Tokar is more than an outstanding veterinarian, she is an extraordinary leader, mentor, and friend, and Veterinary Care Services is better because of her.”

To every veterinarian across every Encore Vet Group practice, thank you for the confidence you build, the shifts you cover, the teaching you share, and the heart you bring to this work every day.

Happy Veterinarian’s Week. We are so grateful for you!