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Availabillity
Shannon is available for consultation at Parkvets Swanley surgery, Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays.
For an appointment with Shannon please call 01322 665916.
Biography
As an adventurous and curious young child, I grew up exploring the rich diversity of animals and habitats of my native Northern California with my trusty Labrador. Fledglings, salamanders and strange jelly fish on sandy beaches were constantly scrutinised, leading to my passion for nature and animals.
Over the years, I was very lucky to have been 'owned' by many cats, dogs, horses and small furry critters, each having left an impression on my developing sense of responsibility and identity. By the very mature age of seven, I had concluded that my ambition would be to become a veterinarian like no other. Certainly, this was a job that would allow me to spend all my days tending the wounds of grateful animals?
The university system in the States requires one to complete a Bachelors degree before entering veterinary school, so I first completed a degree in biological anthropology at UC San Diego. This was a fascinating subject, which delved deeply into ecology, primate behaviour and conservation. I was nearly swayed into this field with thoughts of Jane Goodall's amazing work swelling my imagination. I was quickly steered back on track, though, when I realised I was not cut out for the realities and hardships of field work, where electricity and running water were not available.
With great relief and an intensified focus, I came to London to complete my career ambition. I qualified from the Royal Veterinary College, London in 2001. I have been with Parkvets since April 2006 and have spent the better part of my career thus far expanding my interest in ophthalmology, whilst keeping up with a busy general practice caseload.
As so often happens to my fellow countrymen, I was wooed by a wonderful Englishman and decided to stay in London. I now live with my husband, young daughter and two fluffy cats in a house that could not be safely build in California. (This brick house would never survive an earthquake!!)
With a young family, I find balancing time for all the demands of modern life tremendously challenging. However, we love to travel and I am always dreaming of the next adventure that lies ahead. I once found time for all my other passions of riding horses, skiing, running, and reading. Nowadays, I must be content to occasionally rediscover such pleasures, and hopefully spark the same passions and interests in my daughter as those so enjoyed by myself!
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