Dr. Frazier is an instructor who leads the Spay-Neuter, Community Outreach and Shelter Medicine service at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital.
Tell us about your background.
I received my veterinary degree from Universidade Estácio de Sá in Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. After I graduated, I came back to the United States to do an internship at the University of Illinois. Through the U of I, I was able to do a shelter medicine surgical intensive program at shelters in Chicago. During my time there I worked at the Anti-Cruelty Society, One Tail At A Time, and Treehouse.
What draws you to shelter medicine?
Besides the adorable pets? I love working with students. They are passionate, funny, and driven. Helping them develop their skills is very rewarding for me. I also enjoy working with the people in the shelter community. The employees and volunteers at shelters are some of the most generous, hardworking people you will ever meet. It is inspiring that they give it their all every day to help these animals.
What is one goal you have for the Spay-Neuter, Community Outreach and Shelter Medicine service?
My goal for the shelter medicine program is to create an environment where students can grow their confidence with surgical and clinical skills. I want to offer them a great, hands-on educational experience. We will create a department where students can learn, help the community, and have fun while doing it!
What are your special interests?
Within shelter medicine I am interested in client communication and community outreach. As veterinarians, we can make a huge impact on our communities just by educating the public about their pets. Taking time to teach the public about animal welfare can help combat misinformation which often improves the quality of life of animals.
