Lake Mary, Florida/USA

American K-9 Detection Services, LLC (AMK9), the leading provider of K-9 detection services, is partnered with Defense Consulting Services, LLC (DCS) to provide training services to support the Headquarters Air Force Security Forces Center’s (HQ AFSFC) efforts to stand up the Military Working Dog (MWD) pre-deployment training at Fort Bliss, TX. The DCS/AMK9 Team will provide a cadre of highly skilled and experienced canine trainers and medical support staff to augment the MWD Area Security Operations (ASO) and MWD Base Security Operations (BSO) training teams. The training will be tailored to prepare the Air Force MWD Teams for their C-IED mission and support to Area and Base Security Operations.

AMK9 is honored to be a member of the DCS team that is tasked to prepare Air Force MWD Teams for deployment. For this effort we have selected highly qualified trainers that have years of relevant experience and are experts in their field. All are certified U.S. Military canine instructors and some retired military veterans, and with their vast collection of operational experience they are able to incorporate their real world knowledge into the training.

AMK9 is confident in our ability to thoroughly prepare the Air Force MWD Handlers for their upcoming deployment as evidenced by our discoveries of over 700 explosives and hundreds of narcotics in Iraq and Afghanistan while providing assistance to the United States and Coalition Forces in the Global War on Terror. AMK9 believes that the quality of our trainers, thoroughness of the program, and proven performance, has prepared us to be an ideal training solution. AMK9 is proud to team with DCS to demonstrate the same commitment to excellence that has allowed us to successfully serve the U.S. and foreign government, and private sector for over eight years. Our unwavering commitment to our core values of honesty, integrity, and excellence, means that each of our clients, to include the U.S. Air Force, can expect to receive an unparalleled level of service that will exceed their expectations.

For more information, contact:

American K-9 Detection Services, LLC
735 Primera Blvd., Suite 215
Lake Mary, Florida 32746
T 407.333.8848
F 407.333.8846

AMK9 Extends Condolences to the Victims of the Boston Marathon Tragedy
18 April 2013
Lake Mary, Florida/USA

American K-9 Detection Services, LLC (“AMK9”) would like to offer our sincere condolences to all of those affected by the tragic events that occurred during the Boston Marathon. The thoughts and prayers of the AMK9 Team are with you.

As we reflect upon this senseless tragedy, we are inspired by the heroism demonstrated by so many who raced into harm’s way to provide care and protection for the injured. In response, AMK9 has joined the security industry’s effort to provide additional protective resources by designating Explosive Detection Dog (EDD) Teams for immediate mobilization to any location our service could be of help.

AMK9 has been providing hundreds of Contract Working Dog (CWD) Team services in assistance to the United States (U.S.) troops and Coalition Forces in the Global War on Terror, as well as for various federal facilities within the U.S. since 2004. We have been honored to provide this critical security for our leaders and countrymen serving overseas and we now welcome additional opportunities to guard our brothers and sisters against future attacks on our homeland.

Man’s best friend plays pivotal role in IED defeat
5 March, 2013

KHOWST PROVINCE, Afghanistan – One asset being used today against roadside bombs is a different type of tool often seen on the battlefield.

The fact that it isn’t another electronic item stored away in a backpack or vehicle is a change for some Soldiers.

Military working dogs have worked hand-in-hand with the military for decades as guard dogs or attack dogs. However, Soldiers are now seeing more and more bomb sniffing dogs going on missions with them.

“These dogs smell the odor no matter what it’s hidden or buried in, their noses will pick up the explosive’s odor,” said Staff Sgt. Matthew Phillips, An infantryman and dog handler assigned to 3rd Brigade Combat Team “Rakkasans,” 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). “You could spend days looking around with a metal detector and only find garbage. No matter what the explosive is made of, the dog will smell the odor of the material.”

Phillips is just one of thirteen Rakkasans in the Tactical Explosive Detection Dogs program also known as TEDD. The program takes Soldiers from different military jobs and sends them to a 9-week course where they learn to work hand-in-hand with their new partner and their responsibilities inherent with being a dog handler.

“You have to learn the dog’s body language on what they smell,” said Cpl. Daniel Crean, a military police officer assigned to 3rd BCT. “Each dog has a different reaction to explosive odor. In a perfect scenario, the handler notices the dog’s reaction and calls them back before they go to the bomb.”

Phillips leans over and hugs his canine partner, a German shepherd named Sgt. 1st Class Rocky.

“I think the hardest part of the class was learning how to read your dogs movements,” said Pfc. William Clark, an infantryman and dog handler assigned to 3rd BCT. “It was the most stressful part of the class, and it was the part that many people failed.”

Crean describes the dog’s reaction to detecting an explosive. The dog will start walking side to side, turning around when they have reached the limit of the odor, almost in the shape of a funnel. It is through this technique that Soldiers are able to know the direction and usually the distance of the improvised explosive device.

The handler and dog teams rotate through all the larger forward operating bases and smaller outposts to assist as many Rakkasans as they can.

“These dogs work ahead of the troops,” said Crean. “They work really hard to keep us out of harm’s way.”

“The dog’s body language says it all,” said Phillips. “It can be something small like the slight perking of their ears or something big like the movement and speed of their tail.”

“Dogs have proved to the best asset to have in finding improvised explosive devices,” said Phillips, who has been in the Army 11 years and deployed multiple times. “I saw a few dogs in Iraq, but not nearly as many as I have seen on this deployment.”

There are 13 dogs within 3rd Brigade and their assistance is spread among most of the troops when they are out on missions.

“In December and January, the TEDD dogs had more explosive finds in country than any other programs,” said Crean.

“We go out with the infantrymen, the scouts and really anyone who would like to have our assistance while out on patrol,” said Clark. “These dogs have saved lives.”

Dogs with the TEDD program are not the only dogs working at Forward Operating Base Salerno, Afghanistan.

AMK9 is a civilian dog handling company hired by the Department of Defence.

“The only difference between our dogs and the dogs working with Soldiers is that we handle the work on the operating bases and outposts and their dogs work outside on missions,” said Kevin Campbell, the kennel master assigned to FOB Salerno. “I have 10 dogs that work in the area of operations here.”

Dogs assigned to AMK9 conduct operations on deployed military installations, their operations include, but are not limited to, vehicle inspections, drug related operations, security and escorting personnel.

“Our dogs have to meet the same standards as the dogs working with the Army,” said Campbell. “Our missions are just on installations, not outside on missions.”

Deployed dogs, whether they are assigned to the military or work with a civilian company, have played a large role for the Rakkasans; from assisting them on missions to protection while on a FOB or COP.

Though they are here for work, Soldiers working through the TEDD program can’t help but bond and grow attached to their canine partners.

“My dog, Spc. Hugo, in a nutshell, is bipolar, clumsy and such a goofball. But I don’t think I have a bond as strong with anyone else but him,” said Clark. “Even fellow Soldiers I have known since the start of my career, none come close to the bond I have with Hugo.”

“My dog, Sgt. Misa is amazing,” said Crean. “He is really timid, he will scare himself all the time but he is the most loving dog I have ever met.”

“Rocky is just a big baby,” said Phillips. “He thinks he’s a lap dog, but he’s such a sweet heart.”

“He loves working and he really loves playing,” Phillips continued. “Even though they are working dogs, in order to perform better, they need time to play and just be a dog.”

Looking at all three Soldiers with their canine partners you can see the strong bond each team shares as well as the affection, dedication and love each dog shows for their handler.

“I love that dog.” Said Crean. “I really don’t want to give Misa back to the TEDD program when we get back to Fort Campbell.”

“If I could come up with the money, I would buy Rocky from the TEDD program after the deployment, in a heartbeat,” Said Phillips.

“This is the last thing I ever expected to do when I enlisted in the infantry,” said Clark. “But it was a change for the best, I love doing this.”

“Out of my 11 years in the Army, this is one of the best experiences I’ve ever had,” said Phillips.

More than 20 dogs work in the Rakkasans area of operations, doing their part in Operation Enduring Freedom.

These dogs are not considered equipment, but fellow service members. They too take part in helping protect currently deployed Rakkasans.

AMK9 to Provide EDD Support in Iraq for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

17 December 2012

Lake Mary, Florida/USA

American K-9 Detection Services, LLC (“AMK9”), the leading provider of K-9 detection services, is pleased to fulfill the second Explosive Detection Dog (EDD) Team sub contract award in Iraq in support of the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Security Support Services-Iraq (SSS-I).  Through this subcontract AMK9 EDD Teams will serve as the principal means of explosives and contraband detection at one of the key U.S. Air Bases in Iraq.

For nearly nine years, AMK9 has had a notable presence in Iraq providing Explosive, Narcotic, and Human Remains Detection Dog Team services for clients ranging between the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of State, and International Security Assistance Forces.  We are honored to have this opportunity to expand our operations in Iraq and continue this critical explosive detection service for the troops and personnel at the U.S. Air Base.

AMK9 is committed to providing the SSS-I mission the same level of excellence demonstrated by the AMK9 Team since our first mission in Iraq in 2004. In addition to providing an unrivaled level of K-9 detection support, AMK9’s goal is to serve the USACE team according our core values, of honesty, integrity and excellence, exceeding their expectations in security and service, each day.

For more information, contact:

American K-9 Detection Services, LLC
735 Primera Blvd., Suite 215
Lake Mary, Florida 32746
T 407.333.8848
F 407.333.8846

AMK9 Sponsors 5K Turkey Trot at Bagram Airfield

Lake Mary, Florida/USA

American K-9 Detection Services, LLC (“AMK9”) was pleased to sponsor the recent Bagram Airfield 5K Turkey Trot held this past November in partnership with the Air Force Morale Welfare and Recreation (“MWR”) Center. AMK9 believes it is important to recognize our employees, fellow contractors, and troops who are serving overseas and thank them for their service and sacrifice, especially during the holiday season when separation from family and the comforts of home can be the hardest.

The purpose of this event was to offer a venue where personnel deployed overseas could come together to celebrate and enjoy the Thanksgiving Holiday with some friendly competition. With 496 participants from across the various military units stationed at the Bagram Airfield, everyone involved agreed the event was a success in providing an enjoyable holiday activity.

AMK9 would like to recognize everyone who participated in the Turkey Trot and give special congratulations to the first, second, and third place winners respectively: Bill Holt, Navy with a time of 21:05; Yuri Knyshev, Army with a time of 21:11; and RJ Peroje, Air Force with a time of 21:15.

AMK9 has been assisting troops overseas since 2004 and we truly understand the dedication and sacrifice of those who serve during the holiday season. It is this time of year when your commitment to the AMK9 core values of honesty, integrity, and excellence means the most. In addition to the AMK9 employees, we would like to extend our sincerest appreciation to all of our fellow contractors and troops who are stationed overseas in the Global War on Terrorism. It has been honor to work beside you for the last eight years and we will continue to support you in the mission in the years to come.

For more information about AMK9 contact:

American K-9 Detection Services, LLC
735 Primera Blvd., Suite 215
Lake Mary, Florida 32746
T 407.333.8848
F 407.333.8846

AMK9 Gearing Up to Share Holiday Goodwill

Lake Mary, Florida/USA

American K-9 Detection Services, LLC (“AMK9”) is gearing up to share some holiday cheer and generosity as the end of the year festivities fast approach. Because AMK9 is a globally run operation, AMK9 will be supporting holiday goodwill efforts in both the local communities surrounding AMK9 headquarters as well as overseas in Afghanistan.

AMK9 believes it is important to recognize our employees, fellow contractors, and troops who are serving in Afghanistan and thank them for their service and sacrifice, especially during the holiday season when separation from family and the comforts of home can be the hardest. To show our support, AMK9 is sponsoring a 5K Turkey Trot race in collaboration with the Bagram Airfield (BAF) Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Center. The purpose of this event is to offer a venue where we can come together to celebrate and enjoy the Thanksgiving Holiday with some friendly competition.

The AMK9 Team has committed to expanding goodwill efforts to include the local community by donating requested items that will help those less fortunate celebrate and enjoy the holidays this year as well. Locally, AMK9 employees are joining together to support two notable charity efforts by encouraging participation and collecting donations for the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida and Papa Joe’s Pizza for Toy Drive benefitting Toys for Tots.

AMK9 believes their commitment to the core values of honesty, integrity, and excellence has contributed greatly to continued success. As a result, AMK9 believes it is our responsibility to use our success to support charitable efforts in the community that align with those core values. AMK9 is honored to have the ability to support these efforts this holiday season.

See below for more information about the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, Toys for Tots, and how you can get involved:

www.foodbankcentralflorida.org
www.toysfortots.org

For more information about AMK9 contact:

American K-9 Detection Services, LLC
735 Primera Blvd., Suite 215
Lake Mary, Florida 32746
T 407.333.8848
F 407.333.8846

AMK9 to Provide EDD Support for Afghan Ministry of Transportation and Civil Aviation Facilities
5 November 2012
Lake Mary, Florida/USA

American K-9 Detection Services, LLC (“AMK9”), the leading provider of K-9 detection services, is pleased to partner with Olive Group FZ-LLC to provide Explosive Detection Dog (EDD) Team services in support of the Afghan Ministry of Transportation and Civil Aviation (MoTCA). Our EDD Teams will augment Olive Group’s security efforts, and serve as a key explosives and contraband detection resource at four major airport facilities in Afghanistan.

Since 2004 AMK9 has been regarded as a premier security provider. Currently we have nearly 500 explosive and narcotic detection dog teams deployed throughout Afghanistan to protect United States (U.S.) Department of Defense, U.S. Department of State, and International Security Assistance Forces (ISAF) facilities and personnel. We are honored to expand our operations to include protection of aviation facilities on behalf of the Afghan MoTCA.

AMK9 is excited to work with Olive Group and the Afghan government to provide this valuable detection service, and to demonstrate the same “mission first” approach that has allowed us to successfully serve the U.S. and foreign governments and private businesses for over eight years. Our unwavering commitment to our core values of honesty, integrity and excellence, means that the Afghan MoTCA can expect to receive an unparalleled level of service, each day.

For more information, contact:

American K-9 Detection Services, LLC
735 Primera Blvd., Suite 215
Lake Mary, Florida 32746
T 407.333.8848
F 407.333.8846

AMK9 Announces New Environmental Team Services Capability

2 November 2012

Lake Mary, Florida/USA

Bed bug infestations are on the rise in U.S. cities with major international airport hubs. The earlier the infestation is detected, the quicker it can be eradicated. In response, American K-9 Detection Services, LLC (AMK9) is pleased to announce the addition of Environmental Canine Detection Teams to our core capabilities. AMK9, in partnership with Southern Coast K9 (SCK9), has established Southern Coast Environmental Team Services (S.C.E.N.T.S). AMK9 S.C.E.N.T.S offers customers the most effective, reliable, and accurate bed bug detection solution.

AMK9 S.C.E.N.T.S utilizes hand selected and high drive canines from European working dog breeders. These canines are then bonded with experienced Handlers and undergo a rigorous training and certification process to ensure that our K-9 Teams meet or exceed National Entomology Detection Canine Association (NESDCA) and International Association of Canine Pest Inspectors (IAOCPI) standards. NESDCA and IAOCPI are the industry recognized certifications for qualified bed bug detection dog teams.

Our canine selection and training protocols guarantee quality services with accurate and high detection rates. Our goal is to detect bed bugs, and pinpoint their exact location, eliminating the need for unnecessary costly treatments.

We offer flexible, cost effective options, from one time searches to routine maintenance programs, for both residential and commercial customers. Regardless of the detection option utilized, customers can expect to receive the same commitment to excellence and unrivaled customer service that is central to AMK9’s core values that have earned us the trust and confidence of satisfied government and commercial customers since 2004.

For more information, contact:

AMK9 S.C.E.N.T.S
735 Primera Blvd. Ste. 215
Lake Mary, FL 32746

407.333.1195
AMK9scents@amk9.com
www.amk9.com

27 September 2012

Lake Mary, Florida/USA

“Inspire. Success. Together,” was the call to action taken to heart by the corporate team members of American K-9 Detection Services, LLC (“AMK9”).  Team members of the AMK9 corporate headquarters and the AMK9 satellite office of Hill Country Dog Center, received the charge during the biannual “All Paws” meeting recently held at the Lake Mary Events Center.   The “All Paws” meeting was started in February of 2012 as a time to unite the corporate team, challenging them to reflect, recharge, and reset the corporate culture with positive energy as they continue to pursue the AMK9 mission as a cohesive team.

The “All Paws” meeting was kicked-off at the Lake Mary Event Center with presentations from several of the department leaders.  The department leaders were given the opportunity to share significant progress their teams have made toward key initiatives that are advancing the AMK9 network, infrastructure, policies, and benefits. There was also discussion of new K-9 detection capabilities soon to bring in additional business.  Each presentation was an encouraging reminder of the accomplishments the departments have made as a team and the value they’ve personally added to the AMK9 enterprise.  Additionally, the rest of the AMK9 team gained insight into the specific role and complexity of the other departments, expanding their appreciation for everyone else’s efforts.

As a refresher summary for the many new corporate team members, the Operations and Training Departments reviewed what life is like for the team members of AMK9 deployed overseas. They also included an overview of the rigorous training and certifications each K-9 team must go through to qualify as one of AMK9’s prestigious, highly trained, Contract Working Dog Teams.  As many of the corporate team members don’t often have the opportunity to see training or be involved in the actual K-9 detection work, educating them on the specific K-9 operations helped to inspire them to personally connect to the AMK9 mission and purpose.

Following the presentations, the day transitioned into team building activities that focused on the individual, department, and company.  Led by Mary Tomlinson of On-Purpose Partners, LLC, everyone in attendance had the unique opportunity to complete self-personality assessments using the DiSC® Classic Personal Profile System® 2800.  Using a multiple choice test, the DiSC® system identifies an individual’s “classical pattern” of their personality type. Ms. Tomlinson used the fundamentals of the system and results of the test to demonstrate the value of each personality type and how they are all necessary for a successful team.  After thoughtful review about the benefit of each personality category and insight as to how individuals of that category perceive the world, the focus then shifted to the AMK9 department teams.  The corporate team discussed the value of each department and their critical role as a key function of the company.  Each department was given the opportunity to collaborate and share their unique purpose, goals, and needs with the group, and then offered practical suggestions as to how other departments could effectively work with them.

Finally, the team was challenged to assess the corporate culture and help identify the values of AMK9.  The current AMK9 values of Commitment, Quality, Integrity and Excellence continued to rank in importance throughout the exercise.  The corporate team members felt that round-the-clock availability, and never cutting corners, were a couple examples that demonstrate AMK9’s commitment to the success of each contract, the quality of services provided, and the satisfaction of each customer.  Additionally, the team believed that AMK9 continuously proves the importance of Integrity and Excellence by choosing to always conduct ethical business, adhering to industry regulations, and maintaining the strictest standards in training and certifications, ensuring the most highly qualified K-9 teams available.

Through the presentations, team building, discussion of values, and open flow of honest communication that was encouraged throughout the activities of the “All Paws” meeting, the team together inspired a renewed sense of positive energy.  The positive energy visibly carried over into the events of the following day as the corporate employees and their families enjoyed a fun filled Saturday at the AMK9 Family Luau. Despite a rainy start, the success of the Family Luau rivaled that of the “All Paws” meeting the previous day.  With activities for everyone, the corporate team members and their families got to enjoy bounce houses, face painting, and games, in addition to a K-9 Detection Demonstration, Hula Dancers with a fire performance, and a Hawaiian inspired buffet for lunch.  Each attendee also departed with a gift basket full of Hawaiian theme treats as they finished out the day.

Even though a round-the clock-security mission can be demanding, by taking care of each employee as a valued member of the team, AMK9 has established a culture of excellence, the effects of which have reached clients across the globe earning their trust and continued business.  As the positive energy among corporate employees continues to rise, AMK9 looks forward to finishing out the fourth quarter of 2012 with a bright future ahead.

 


Julia Avery, DVM: Overcoming Challenges Abroad
21 September 2012

Various challenges can arise when working abroad, such as getting used to a new culture and/or adapting to a new schedule. For Julia Avery, DVM, her biggest challenge in Baghdad, Iraq, is making the most of the limited veterinary medical supplies.

“The lack of supplies and equipment is the worst challenge,” says Dr. Avery, who has been working for the American K-9 Detection Services (AMK9) since September 2011. The Lake Mary, Fla.-based company offers contract working dog detection services to a variety of clients, including government agencies.

Julia Avery, DVM

Avery, who through the company is part of the U.S. Baghdad Embassy Security Force, works as a civilian veterinarian taking care of the roughly 200 contract working dogs. The dogs protect the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulates by detecting explosives at entry check points and other areas and sweeping venues or routes that may be utilized by the ambassador or other VIPs, among other duties.

Overcoming Limits
To help overcome some of the medical supply limitations, Avery has networked with many of the human providers to acquire most of the needed medications and dry goods. Still, there are other challenges to contend with, such as poor mail service—Avery says she might get something sent over six to eight weeks after an initial request—and limited laboratory services.

Avery is also the only American veterinarian in Baghdad and the only vet treating the AMK9 working dogs. Her days can be varied and long because she is on call 24/7. One day may be spent conducting semi-annual physical exams or administering vaccines and the next may entail tending to a laceration or wound.

Heat-related injuries and dehydration can also be a big issue, Avery says, noting that temperatures can soar to 132 degrees Fahrenheit.

Avery’s other duties: surgeries and dentals as needed, administrative work (e.g. ordering supplies, conducting inventories and recording invoices), sanitation and wellness inspections on the kennel facilities and teaching classes on basic canine first aid to the dog handlers.

“I am pretty much a one-woman show over here,” Avery says.

Big Rewards
Despite the challenges, the reward is big.

“The spirit of these dogs amazes me,” Avery says, when asked if she has any memorable dog stories.

One in particular is a dog named Luna who was sick for a few days. Her gums were muddy and tacky, she exhibited labored breathing and she had no energy. Avery started Luna on IV fluids and antibiotics and told the handlers to prepare for the worst.

Dr. Avery treats AMK9 working dogs in Baghdad.

Radiographs revealed pneumonia.

Avery was able to acquire a couple of oxygen tanks and a nebulizer but had to be creative in how to approach the rest of her treatment.

“We manufactured a cone to put over her nose using a male urinal by cutting off the end and using duct tape to secure the oxygen source to the modified urinal,” Avery says. “Three days later and 24-hour care by the kennel master and other handlers, she began coming around.”

At press time, about three weeks after Luna was brought in, she was reportedly doing very well.

“She is tromping around playful as a pup again,” Avery says. “Under the circumstances we work in, miracles and love happen.”

It’s this perseverance and devotion to animals that makes Avery such a good veterinarian, according to Kelli Sanders, DVM, a supervisor of veterinarians for the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. Dr. Sanders and Avery met in 1996 at Colorado State University while attending vet school and have remained friends throughout the years.

“[Avery] is a very sincere person,” Sanders says. “She cares very deeply about all animals, and people as well. I think that is one of her strong traits is that she’s so passionate about what she does.”

The Road to Baghdad
It was being a veterinarian in the United States Army Reserve that got her an “in” with American K-9 Detection Services, Avery says. She joined the Veterinary Corps in 2009.

“I wanted an adventure, and I have quite a few family members who were or are in one branch or service or another,” she says. “I wanted to be part of something bigger and see other parts of the world.”

Although her job is not through the Corps, her military experience and background help when working in this type of environment, she says.

Dr. Avery said she is amazed by the spirit of the working dogs she cares for in Iraq. All Photos Courtesy of Dr. Julia Avery.

“I have learned to be very adaptable, can sleep through very loud noises and have met some amazing people from all corners of the globe,” Avery says.

Avery says it was when she was 25 years old and in a job “going nowhere” that she decided to become a veterinarian. She was a single mom with a 3-year-old son.

“I needed to do something to improve our lives,” she says. “I always loved animals and horses. I thought about being a vet tech but ultimately wanted to be my own boss. So, I decided to become a vet.”

Avery spoke with a counselor at Aims Community College in Greeley, Colo., to see how to get the ball rolling. The counselor gave Avery the general outline of what she needed to achieve in school, including high grades, making sure each semester was filled with difficult courses and relevant volunteer work.

She began attending the community college in 1993 and then transferred to Colorado State University in 1994 for her undergraduate courses. Meanwhile, she also got involved in community activities and started volunteering with a veterinarian who later wrote a recommendation letter for her to attend CSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.

Avery graduated in May 2000.

She then went on to own her own practice in Golden, Colo., focusing on equine and food animals. Avery subsequently worked in a couple of other practices also geared toward large animals.

“I started out tracking large animal/equine in school and that was all I did for the first few years out of school,” she says.

Avery decided to branch out to small animal medicine in 2005 but says she found the experience trying.

“All I was searching for was for someone to take me under their wing, teach me what they have learned and find a stable, secure position where I could thrive financially and professionally, become part of a community and stay there,” Avery says.

Poor mentorship and a few “less than optimal experiences” made it difficult to achieve these goals, she says. Still, it didn’t get her down.

“Somehow I have managed to retain my love for my job,” she says. “I learned a lot from everyone I have worked with, and will continue to learn. For now, I am enjoying this challenge [in Baghdad] and the many people and working dogs I work with. It is very rewarding.”