Jodi

RVT & Manager

Jodi brings a wealth of experience to our team, combining her background in veterinary medicine and business leadership. She holds a BSc in Aquaculture and a diploma in Animal Health Technology from NSAC. After 10 years as a registered veterinary technician at Amherst Vet, Jodi managed a local business before becoming the lead technician at the NS SPCA in Dartmouth for 4.5 years. Knowing Dr. Lesley Steele for over a decade, Jodi jumped at the opportunity to join our team, blending her leadership skills, technical expertise, and business acumen—all while staying close to home. A self-proclaimed summer enthusiast, Jodi loves spending time on her deck enjoying nachos and cocktails. She and her husband George share their home with five cats: Otzi, Peach, Binx, Winston, and Bo. As the leader of our kitten program (and a proud “crazy cat lady”), Jodi has already adopted three kittens from the program, though she says she’s done—time will tell! Jodi’s dedication and experience make her an incredible asset to our team, and we’re thrilled to have her leading the way!

Questions

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Our kitten program is one of the most heartwarming aspects of my work. Launched in 2021, this program helps control the overpopulation of cats in our community by offering discounted spay services for female cats while we care for, treat, and adopt out their kittens.

To date, we’ve found loving homes for 166 kittens! Many of them have even passed through my home before being adopted—I’ve personally kept three (and now have two “grandcats” as well)!
What’s a pet tip you always share with cat owners?

Every household should have a minimum of three cats! If something happens to one, the remaining two will always have a companion. I personally have five cats and four grandcats, so I’m fully committed to this advice!
What’s the story behind your cat’s name?

One of my cats, Otzi, came from the SPCA feral cat program. He was trapped in Yarmouth in 2016 and, despite his history, is the farthest thing from feral. He’s orange, has extra toes, and a healed broken back leg. His original name was Garfield, but my husband renamed him Otzi after the “Iceman” mummy, it suits him perfectly!
What inspired you to work in this industry?

I’ve loved animals for as long as I can remember. As a child, I was obsessed with dogs, collected figurines, and played “SPCA” with my stuffed animals. Volunteering at SPCAs as a teen, I knew I’d pursue a career with animals—they’re my true passion.

I took a brief break from the field but returned because it’s where I belong. Working at the SPCA in Dartmouth deepened my love for cats, and now I fully embrace my “crazy cat lady” status with a cat wall in my dining room and a new backyard catio!
What’s your best advice for pet owners to ensure their pets live healthy lives?

Follow the advice of your veterinary care team! Key steps include regular vaccinations, parasite prevention, proper nutrition, fecal exams, baseline bloodwork, annual check-ups, grooming, hygiene, and dental care. Staying proactive ensures your pets lead happy, healthy lives!