Elfie - Paraveterinair

My name is Elfie.

From a young age, I always knew I wanted to become a veterinarian. While other people’s dreams sometimes change over time, mine has always remained the same. As a child, I would play “doctor” with my stuffed animals as patients and try to help every animal I came across. Even a bee or a lost ladybug would get my full attention. Animals have always been a natural and important part of my life.

I grew up in Den Bosch and have been living in Utrecht for the past eight years. At home, we always had dogs: Gompie and Saartje. With them, I went on long forest walks that are still very dear to me. After years of pleading, my twin sister and I finally got a Beauceron named Halou when we were fourteen. She had a special place in my heart and showed me how extraordinary the bond between humans and animals can be. For me, a pet is truly a companion and a full member of the family.

During veterinary medicine open days, I became certain: this is what I want to do. I studied in Utrecht and look back on a very educational and enjoyable time. During my bachelor’s degree, I built a strong foundation, after which I learned the practical side of the profession during my master’s and internships.

What appeals to me about this profession is the combination of medical knowledge and collaboration with both animals and their owners. Because animals cannot tell you what is wrong, you need to observe carefully and think clinically. That challenge is what makes the work varied and meaningful to me.

I really enjoy communication and teamwork within a practice. At Dierenkliniek Duivendrecht, I therefore feel at home. It is the type of practice where we support one another. The best part of my work is the gratitude of pet owners and the difference you can make for pets and their owners.