ANIMAL CARE OF GREENVILLE - Key Persons
Introducing Dr. Brianna Whiting, a 2017 graduate of Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She joined us at Animal Care of Greenville shortly after graduation and has dedicated herself to providing exceptional care to her furry patients.
With nearly six years of experience in the field, donning her white coat, Dr. Whiting has developed a passion for soft tissue surgery. But it's not just her skills in the operating room that make her stand out. As a lifelong learner, Dr. Whiting is constantly honing her skills, not only in surgery but in internal medicine and diagnostic imaging, with a special focus on the wonders of ultrasound.
What motivates her in her work? Witnessing successful cases, as well as her patients' improved quality of life, tops the list. But that's not all - she thrives in the presence of a positive and encouraging team and cherishes the satisfaction of having amazing, happy clients. And let's not forget her love for pitties and doodles - she just can't get enough of their charming personalities!
When she's not busy saving the day at work, you'll find Dr. Whiting building and creating all sorts of things in her woodworking shop or spending time being active. And did you know she's a marine biology enthusiast at heart? Outside of her professional interests, Dr. Whiting holds a deep fascination for the ocean and its mesmerizing sea life. In an alternate universe, she would have pursued a career as a marine biologist to explore the secrets hidden beneath the waves.
But that's not all - family is also an integral part of Dr. Whiting's life. She is the proud wife of Dr. Shane Proietto (he works at our sister clinic, Winterville Animal Care) and a loving mom to their two beautiful children. Maybe we've got two more AMAZING veterinarians in the making? Only time can tell!
If she could have any superpower, it would be the ability to fly, so she could travel the world with ease - but if we're being honest, she's already a superhero in our eyes.
As Dr. Whiting's favorite quote goes, "It's not about what you look at that matters; it's about what you see." And what we see is an incredible vet who's making a difference in the world, one patient at a time.
Introducing Dr. Inken Van Cura, an exceptional veterinarian with a passion for providing top-notch care to animals and over 26 years of experience in the veterinary field. Dr. Van Cura graduated from Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1999 and has since become a respected and trusted professional in our community. Joining the esteemed team at Animal Care of Greenville in January of 2023, she continues to make a positive impact on the lives of her patients and their owners.
Dr. Van Cura's dedication to her job extends beyond the clinic walls. She finds immense joy in educating clients and empowering them to actively contribute to their pets' well-being. By sharing her knowledge and expertise, she helps pet owners understand the importance of their role in fostering healthier lives for their beloved companions. Dr. Van Cura is particularly fond of the cheerful demeanor of the "happy babies" that visit the clinic, and she strives to create a lifelong positive experience for each patient during their veterinary visits.
With a special interest in soft-tissue surgery, wound management, and preventative medicine, Dr. Van Cura demonstrates her commitment to providing comprehensive care to her patients. Her problem-solving skills shine as she tackles medical cases, consistently motivated to find effective solutions and improve the lives of the animals she treats.
Outside of her veterinary pursuits, Dr. Van Cura finds solace and inspiration in various hobbies. She is an avid reader who appreciates the power of a good book to transport her to different worlds. Gardening allows her to connect with nature and witness the beauty of life unfolding. Exploring the woods alongside her loyal companion, Piper, brings her tranquility and a sense of adventure. As a connoisseur of French cuisine, she delights in savoring the flavors and artistry of this culinary tradition.
Beyond her professional and personal achievements, Dr. Van Cura possesses a unique and worldly background. She holds an art degree and proudly embraces her three citizenships. Having embarked on a remarkable journey that took her around the globe for two and a half months, she cherishes the experiences and perspectives gained from different cultures and landscapes.
Dr. Van Cura's favorite quote, "This too shall pass," reflects her unwavering optimism and resilience in the face of challenges. Her unwavering dedication, vast knowledge, and compassionate approach make her an invaluable asset to Animal Care of Greenville. If you seek a veterinarian who prioritizes exceptional care, comprehensive education, and a lifelong positive impact on your pet's well-being, look no further than Dr. Inken Van Cura.
Job Titles:
- Medical Director
- Veterinarian
Dr. Lu Olson is an exceptional veterinarian and a proud graduate of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, where her lifelong dream of working with animals became a reality. With a passion that started at a young age, she embarked on her professional journey and joined the Animal Care of Greenville team a month after obtaining her degree in 2013.
Throughout her career, Dr. Olson's expertise and dedication have made a lasting impact on the lives of countless pets and their owners. She has a diverse range of experience, providing compassionate care not only to dogs and cats but also to exotic pets, including birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Her areas of interest encompass soft-tissue surgery, preventative care, exotic pet care, and canine reproductive services, reflecting her unwavering commitment to comprehensive veterinary medicine.
In addition to her clinical prowess, Dr. Olson possesses a deep appreciation for the multifaceted nature of veterinary practice. Recognizing the importance of leadership and well-being in the industry, she assumed the role of Medical Director in 2019. With a keen focus on the challenges faced by veterinary professionals (lack of experience in leadership, mental health issues, prioritizing work-life balance, etc.), she strives to create an environment that fosters growth, support, and overall well-being for her associate veterinarians and colleagues.
Outside of her thriving veterinary career, Dr. Olson finds joy and fulfillment in her family life. She shares a beautiful journey with her loving husband, Matt, whom she has been with since their high school days. Their bond was sealed in 2015 through marriage, and their family expanded with the adoption of their wonderful daughter, whose vibrant spirit brings light and laughter to their home. Together, they embark on exciting adventures and create cherished memories.
Dr. Olson's zest for life extends beyond the clinic and family, encompassing her love for exploration and knowledge. She embraces travel as a way to experience new cultures and broaden her horizons. As an avid reader, she immerses herself in literature, constantly seeking inspiration and personal growth. Moreover, she indulges in her passion for tortoises, caring for and nurturing four of these fascinating creatures that have found a forever home with her.
Sharing a common love for adventure, Dr. Olson, like her esteemed practice manager, Amanda, proudly identifies as a Jeep girl. Whenever an opportunity arises, she eagerly takes her reliable Wrangler off the beaten path, seeking the thrill of discovery and the joy of outdoor exploration.
Introducing Dr. Nick Wells, the veterinary superhero who embarked on a remarkable journey into the world of animal care. After graduating from the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine in 2020, Dr. Wells joined us shortly after and swiftly made his mark at Animal Care of Greenville. However, his passion for the field ignited long before his official veterinarian title, as he dedicated himself to veterinary medicine from the tender age of 16.
At the heart of Dr. Wells' professional fulfillment lies the extraordinary team at Animal Care of Greenville. From visionary leaders to compassionate colleagues, this united force exudes steadfast support, a thirst for knowledge, and a deep commitment to lending a helping hand. Dr. Wells finds profound joy in aiding animals on their healing journey, easing their ailments, and imparting knowledge through engaging educational experiences. Fueling his daily motivation is an insatiable desire to expand his expertise, assist more animals, impart valuable teachings, and inject a sense of fun into every endeavor.
Driven by an unwavering curiosity, Dr. Wells delves into a diverse range of veterinary interests, including soft-tissue surgery, dentistry, internal medicine, cardiology, and the captivating world of diagnostic imaging-specifically ultrasound technology. With each case, he strives for excellence, ensuring optimal care and unparalleled dedication to his patients.
Beyond the clinic walls, you'll find Dr. Wells immersing himself in a symphony of hobbies. Whether skillfully maneuvering his 40-acre farm/equestrian center atop a trusty mower, crafting works of art through woodworking, perfecting his golf swing, or reveling in the precious moments shared with his loving wife and three spirited boys, Dr. Wells embraces life with a zestful spirit.
When it comes to culinary delights, Dr. Wells finds sheer delight in the irresistible combination of pizzas and tacos. A culinary explorer, he welcomes any addition but is particularly won over by the fiery touch of extra jalapenos, igniting his taste buds with fiery delight.
Dr. Nick Wells is an extraordinary veterinarian, teacher, andfamily mann. His favorite quote may be "extraordinarily mediocre," but he is anything but. With his boundless passion, unwavering dedication, and infectious enthusiasm, he has become an invaluable asset to Animal Care of Greenville. Prepare to be amazed by his exceptional skills, genuine care for animals, and indomitable spirit that continues to inspire all who have the privilege of working alongside him. Schedule your appointment today and prepare to be wowed by his amazing skills and contagious enthusiasm!
Meet Ashly, an enthusiastic and dedicated veterinary assistant at Animal Care of Greenville. Since joining the team in July 2022, Ashly has shown a true passion for helping animals and learning more about veterinary medicine. Her love for working with animals shines through in everything she does.
As a veterinary assistant, Ashly has been involved in a wide range of procedures, from administering vaccines to assisting with dental procedures and even drawing blood. She loves learning new things and is always eager to take on new challenges.
What motivates Ashly in her work? The animals need her help, of course, but also her practice manager, Amanda, and medical director, Dr. Olson, who gave her the opportunity to work in this amazing field. And let's not forget about her co-workers, who are always there to lend a helping hand and share their knowledge.
Outside of work, Ashly enjoys painting, scrapbooking, and reading. She's a lover of Indian food and is always on the lookout for new recipes to try. If she had a superpower, she'd want to read minds so she could better understand what people are thinking and feeling.
Overall, Ashly is a valued member of the Animal Care of Greenville team and a true asset to the veterinary industry. Her passion for helping animals, dedication to learning, and positive attitude make her an amazing veterinary assistant and colleague.
Meet Melinda, a dedicated and experienced Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) with a passion for animals that spans over two decades. She has been a valuable member of the Animal Care of Greenville team since September 2021, where she provides exceptional inpatient nursing care and loves nothing more than snuggling with adorable puppies and kittens.
Melinda has a special connection with cats, her favorite animal to work with. She has honed her skills in handling these sharp-edged, liquid-like creatures and feels an immense sense of accomplishment when she wins their trust and affection.
As someone who truly loves every aspect of her job, Melinda is always motivated to give her best and continually improve herself. She is currently working towards obtaining her VTS in behavior, a testament to her commitment to excellence in the field. In addition to her clinical work, Melinda is also an excellent trainer and assists in training veterinary assistants. Her colleagues admire her patience and communication skills, and she is known for her ability to convey complex concepts in an easy-to-understand manner.
When not at work, Melinda spends her time with her husband, Jerry, and their pets. She loves baking (gluten-free, please!) and has an insatiable thirst for knowledge - you can always catch her reading or studying up on something veterinary-related. Did we mention she's a wiz with an Excel spreadsheet?!