Monica D.
Pharmacy and Laboratory Assistant
Hi, my name is Monica, and I am a Pharmacy and Laboratory Assistant at TruVet. I am passionate about learning something new every day and being part of a team that works together to give every patient the very best care.
Personal Hobbies and Interests
Outside of work, I play both piano and violin, enjoy drawing, and of course still love to cook. I share my life with two English Bulldogs named Bocuse and Boulud (after famous French chefs, naturally) and two cats, Mori and Moto.
Favorite Part of My Job
What I love most about TruVet is how well everyone works together as a team to help our patients. There is always something new to learn each day, and that keeps me motivated and excited about where I am headed in this field.
Why I Chose This Profession
My journey to veterinary medicine has been anything but ordinary — from culinary school to cattle research to small animal practice. But every step has reinforced the same thing: I want to be in a field where I can make a real difference for animals and the people who love them.
Education
I hold an Associate's degree in Culinary Arts from The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New Jersey, and a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from UC Davis, where I also completed a research internship working with dairy cows and piglets. I am Fear-Free Shelter Certified and certified in artificial insemination for cattle, and I plan to apply to veterinary school in the near future.
Professional Background
My background spans general practice, research, and culinary arts — an unusual combination that brings a sharp attention to detail and a love of learning to everything I do. In my role at TruVet, I work primarily in the pharmacy and laboratory area, where precision and care are essential.
Work History
Before joining TruVet in February 2025, I worked as a line cook in the restaurant industry and completed my research internship at UC Davis. I bring three years of experience in general practice to my current role in TruVet's pharmacy and laboratory area.