Welcome Dr. Maddie Barrett: A Familiar Face Back at Cascade Hospital for Animals!

We are thrilled to introduce the newest member of our veterinary team at Cascade Hospital for Animals, Dr. Maddie Barrett! Fresh out of veterinary school, Dr. Barrett brings a combination of modern knowledge, boundless enthusiasm, and a lifelong passion for animal care to our practice. As she embarks on her professional journey, we're excited to support her growth and witness the positive impact she'll undoubtedly have on our patients and their families.

 Interestingly, Dr. Barrett's connection to Cascade Hospital for Animals is not new, making it an ideal place for her to begin her career. She reminisces, "As a kid I loved coming to CHFA with my mom and asking the vet all kinds of questions about our pets. When I decided I wanted to be a vet, I shadowed at Cascade Hospital for Animals in high school and college and worked here as a Vet Assistant before going to vet school!" This long-standing relationship with our hospital gives her a unique perspective and familiarity that will ease her transition from student to practitioner.

Her academic journey took her first to Michigan State University, where she earned her B.S. degree, laying a strong foundation for her future studies. She then pursued her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) at Oregon State University, where she honed her skills and expanded her knowledge in animal healthcare.

As Dr. Barrett fondly shares, "I have loved working with animals and have wanted to be a vet since I was in elementary school." This early passion not only guided her academic choices but also fueled her determination to turn her childhood dream into a reality.

During her veterinary studies, Dr. Barrett discovered a particular affinity for exotics, wildlife, and zoo medicine. She enthusiastically recounts, "I spent part of my clinical year rotating through several zoos and working with some amazing animals, including big cats, marine mammals, and elephants." This diverse experience has broadened her perspective and will undoubtedly enrich her approach to veterinary care in our hospital setting.

When she's not focused on her new role as a veterinarian, Dr. Barrett enjoys a well-rounded life outside of work. "Spending quality time with my husband and pets, getting out into nature, cooking, baking, and finding new TV shows to watch," are among her favorite pastimes. This balance between professional dedication and personal interests will surely contribute to her longevity and enthusiasm in the field.

Dr. Barrett's own pet family has a heartwarming story that showcases her compassion and love for animals. She shares, "My husband and I acquired all of our pets accidentally!" Their family includes Emery, an 8-year-old Golden Retriever who was initially a foster for Paws with a Cause, an organization that trains service dogs for people with disabilities. When Emery was released from the program, adopting her was a "no-brainer" for the couple. Emery was the flower girl at her wedding last year!

Their second dog, Luna, an Alaskan Klee Kai, found her forever home with them after being abandoned by her previous owner. Dr. Barrett describes Luna as "very quirky and energetic and is way too intelligent for her own good."

Completing their pet family is Spark, an orange domestic longhair cat who, as Dr. Barrett tells it, "climbed into my car at 7 weeks old in the parking lot at vet school and has been with us ever since." She affectionately adds, "He is the pinnacle of an 'orange boy,' and is the perfect fit into our lives."

As Dr. Barrett steps into her role as a new veterinarian, she brings not only her recent education and training but also a genuine love for animals and a personal understanding of the human-animal bond. Her experiences as a pet owner will undoubtedly enhance her ability to connect with and understand the concerns of our clients.

  We're excited to have Dr. Maddie Barrett join our team as she embarks on her veterinary career. Her fresh perspective, recent education, and longtime connection to our hospital make her a valuable addition to Cascade Hospital for Animals. We look forward to seeing her grow and thrive in her new role, and we're confident that her passion and dedication will greatly benefit our patients and their families.

Located in the heart of West Michigan, serving Ada, Cascade, Forest Hills, and the greater Grand Rapids area, Cascade Hospital for Animals and Breton Village Animal Clinic are trusted havens for vet care. Reach out today to schedule a comprehensive physical examination for your pet.