Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Gruchow.
Hi Natalie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Love, laughs, adventures, dogs, and critters. These few words describe who I am, and I overcame a lot in my life to find happiness. After 7 years in an abusive marriage, I found the courage to leave. I did not do it alone, as I had the support of my parents and coworkers to help me move along with my dog, Sniff. In the process of bettering my life, I found my dream job as the Practice Manager at a progressive veterinary clinic in my hometown of Fargo, North Dakota. Simultaneously, I met my dream guy (and now husband), that supports me for who I am, even living with my chronic illness of multiple sclerosis. I’ve always been highly motivated to remain positive, and I know the power of positivity has helped me overcome adversity. Grit and karma will get you far in life. I obtained the coveted Certified Veterinary Practice Manager credential, a certification in human resources, and a Fear Free Certified Professional certification. These certifications have been well worth the time, energy, and expense, as I’m a part of the Fear Free Speaker’s Bureau to bring training to veterinary professionals at various national conferences and webinars. My passion for the emotional well-being of pets inspired me to create a 401(c)3 nonprofit called Petiquette to raise awareness of leash etiquette and why it matters. Not all dogs like to say hello, and that’s okay. One of my favorite parts of my life is that my professional career aligns with personal goals, and I’m able to combine all of it to better the lives of animals, their caretakers, and the professionals that care for them.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There have been lots of challenges. Leaving my abusive relationship in 2014 was the scariest thing I’ve had to do. Feeling trapped with no money, a recent diagnosis of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis four years prior, and needing to restart my life at 26 years old, with the threats of physical and emotional trauma, was not easy. I strive to be an inspiration for other people going through domestic violence and those diagnosed with chronic conditions. I also suffer from severe grief or anticipatory grief. After all, we’ve been through together, the thought of losing my companion is often debilitating. At the time of this article, he is a 12-and-a-half-year-old black lab. It creates intense moments of anxiety, sadness, and depression. It has helped me to put a label on the grief I feel to understand the process.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At the time of this article, less than 1,000 people in the world hold a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) credential and a Society of Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) certification. I’m very proud of my accomplishments, particularly public speaking. Speech 101 was a frightening experience, and I never thought I’d be paid to travel and present one day. My goal is to develop my nonprofit to its full potential. I enjoy providing services to schools to educate on basic responsible pet owner skills. I have two bearded dragons that are great mascots to teach people that animals don’t need to be warm and fuzzy to need love.
In terms of your work and the industry. What are some changes you expect to see over the next five to ten years?
In 2021, $123.6 billion was spent on our pets in the U.S. $34.3 billion was spent on vet care and product sales. (*source below). Sadly, many talented veterinary professionals leave the industry over compassion fatigue and burnout. The demand for veterinary services can’t keep up with the supply of qualified candidates. A lot of heart and soul is poured into our work every day, and sometimes the greatest threat to our hospitals isn’t from work itself but to the external environment of abusive clients and social media blasting. Unfortunately, all service industries are experiencing it too. A little kindness goes a long way.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.petiquette.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natalie.gruchow/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natalie.gruchow/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEXxMvzLfrxopJPf-2rjdog
Image Credits
Last photo credit goes to Seek Wilder Photography https://www.facebook.com/seekwilderphotography
