Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Blake.
Hi Courtney, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I am a mobile, house call veterinarian. I started my business on June 1, 2021. I graduated from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine in 2004 and practiced at a clinic in Minneapolis for 17 years. I had been looking to do something different for several years and decided that house calls were a good fit for me. I absolutely loved the transition! I love getting to spend more time with my clients and patients. I also love how much less stressed the animals are! It has been very rewarding to be able to provide care for clients or patients that would not have otherwise been able to get into the clinic.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It is a definite learning curve to start your own business! Figuring out all the tax and legal necessities has been a challenge but, luckily, I had other veterinary clinic owners recommend a great lawyer and accountant. That was a huge help in knowing where to get started. I also bought a 27ft veterinary truck this year, which allows me to do surgery and dental procedures in the client’s driveways. This has been a great addition, but there have been hiccups getting it up and running. The hardest part is that it is all me. There is no manager, no HR department, I have to wear all the hats. It is a fun challenge though!
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Blake Home Vet?
I am a mobile, small animal, house call veterinarian. I see people’s pets in the comfort of their homes. This allows people and pets that cannot get to the vet to still have excellent veterinary care. It is also a low-stress option. While they still don’t love being poked and prodded (who can blame them!) they are much more relaxed than they would be in a clinic setting. They do not have to get in the car, drive to the vet, wait in the lobby, see the vet, wait to check out, and drive home. Once I am done, they can just go find their favorite spot or grab a bite to eat! I see dogs, cats, birds, reptiles and pocket pets. I have been seeing all species my entire career, so I have 18 years of experience. I also do acupuncture. This is a wonderful tool, especially for arthritic patients that are having a hard time getting around. I love working with my clients to meet their needs and do what is best for their pets.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Reaching out to other people in your field can be very helpful. I have gotten a lot of help starting my business from other veterinarians that have already done it. They were all so generous with their time and knowledge! When I was first starting in veterinary medicine, I made sure I joined a practice that had good mentorship. I did a two-week externship at the practice while I was in school. This allowed me to see firsthand how the team interacted and how much teaching they were willing to do. It was the best thing I could have done to start my career on the right path.
Contact Info:
- Website: blakehomevet.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blakehomevet/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blakehomevet
