Photo courtesy of Norah LeBlanc

Senior Norah LeBlanc interns at the Bridge City Animal Hospital.

From pocket-size Poodles to ginormous German Shepherds, Norah LeBlanc has encountered many curious animals since she began interning at the Bridge City Animal Hospital this past summer. She is continuing her interning during her senior year with the goal of working 300 hours (about two weeks) at the clinic so that she can take her CVA (Certified Vet’s Assistant) exam.  

“Animals can’t tell their owner what hurts or what is going on,” LeBlanc said. “I’ve always dreamt of working with animals because someone needs to be the one to stand up for them. I want to be a vet so I can help the best way I can.” 

LeBlanc interns at the clinic in the mornings from 7:15-11:20 a.m., making the most of her time by observing and performing veterinarian technician duties.  

“I love seeing all the animals and watching the vet, Dr. Browning, interact with them and figure out how to treat them,” LeBlanc said. “I really enjoy feeling useful; I never just want to sit and do nothing at the clinic.”  

From cleaning up after the morning shift, to preparing the animals and machines for surgeries, LeBlanc is continuing to acquire more and more experience.  

“I get there in the morning and help the techs clean the kennels, then help with whatever is needed: nails, teeth brushing, ear cleaning, drawing blood, drawing up vaccines, etc.,” LeBlanc said. “They are also teaching me how to do heart worm tests and bloodwork.” 

As president of FFA, LeBlanc also has many aspirations to grow the animal science department at the school.  

“I would like to revive it the best I can and get people involved,” LeBlanc said.  “I want us to go to competition, fundraise, and just have a good time with the club.” 

In addition to staying on top of her classes, FFA, and her internship, LeBlanc has many other commitments this year such as Interact, Bear Believers, and NHS. 

“For my senior year, one of my goals is to participate in all I can,” LeBlanc said. “I really want to earn Star Student this year and make all As.”  

Working on an internship now is helping LeBlanc get closer to her goal of owning her own veterinary practice one day.  

“At first, as soon as I finish vet school, I’m going to find a clinic to work at,” LeBlanc said. “After many years, depending on the situation, I want to either buy the practice I’m at or start a new clinic and become the head veterinarian.”   

LeBlanc’s internship is furthering her dedication to caring for animals.  

“My whole life I’ve been very passionate about wanting to do something with animals and help them,” LeBlanc said. “Animals are a God-given gift that we are meant to take care of because they cannot help themselves.”