My Rewarding Journey with Hampton Roads Veterinary Hospice
Embarking on my career in end-of-life care almost a year ago was undoubtedly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The support I’ve received from my team at Hampton Roads Veterinary Hospice (HRVH) has been nothing short of exceptional. Each day, I feel truly bolstered by an incredible group of individuals. Our team encompasses a range of roles, from dedicated general managers and marketing professionals to client communication experts, nurses, doctors, and more. What’s remarkable is that while some team members are based locally, many of us are spread across the nation, from Colorado to North Carolina and even Hawaii! Even when physical presence isn’t possible, a simple text connects us.
Supporting clients and patients during their vulnerable and sensitive times requires a special kind of team, and I’m proud to say that my colleagues fulfill this role with genuine dedication. The compassion and commitment they bring to each interaction are heartwarming.
Our shared dedication stems from our belief in the significance of end-of-life transitions. It’s a genuine honor to assist pets and their families in managing pain and providing comfort during their final moments. Our clients express deep gratitude for our services, acknowledging the sensitivity, time, and effort we invest in every appointment.
In addition to the meaningful work we do, my work-life balance has taken a remarkable turn, something for which I’m incredibly thankful. HRVH values schedules that accommodate the needs of clients, doctors, and staff alike. As a result, my hours have reduced, and the number of patients I see is fewer compared to my time in general practice. This shift translates not only to higher-quality medicine for hospice clients and patients but also to improved mental well-being for our doctors.
Why Choose Hampton Roads Veterinary Hospice?
At HRVH, we’re more than a team; we’re a family, united by our shared passion for enhancing the lives of pets during their final stages. Our collaborative spirit, regardless of our geographic spread, ensures that every member is just a message away. Our dedication to empathetic end-of-life care reflects our belief in the value of every precious moment our clients have with their beloved companions.
Discover Balance and Fulfillment with HRVH
If you’re a veterinarian seeking a more meaningful and balanced career, consider joining the Hampton Roads Veterinary Hospice family. Our commitment to exceptional end-of-life care is matched only by our dedication to the well-being of our team members. Experience the rewarding journey that awaits you at HRVH, where compassion and balance converge. Our practice also offers a flexible work schedule designed to accommodate individual needs and personal/family demands, ensuring you can find harmony between your professional and personal life.
Written by: Christa Gilfeather, DVM
Dr. Christa Gilfeather, graduated from Mississippi State University with two bachelor’s degrees, one in microbiology and another in animal and dairy science in 2015. She continued her journey as a Bulldog at the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where she received her doctorate in 2019. After veterinary school, Dr. Gilfeather moved back to Virginia Beach where she worked in general practice/urgent care medicine until July 2022. Dr. Gilfeather appreciates the opportunity to be able help families and their pets navigate through difficult end-of-life cases and decisions. Her goal is to always treat her clients and patients with the highest level of care and respect. She is honored to be a member of the Hampton Roads Veterinary Hospice Team.
