For nearly 14 years, Cynthia Lewis has grown alongside the University of Georgia Pet Health Center, a Stanton Spectrum of Care Clinic, taking on roles that have given her a unique perspective on veterinary medicine and clinic operations.
Lewis joined the center in 2012 as a licensed veterinary technician and later became nursing manager before stepping into her current role as practice manager. Her career is a testament to the many opportunities veterinary technicians can find within the profession.
Throughout her career, Lewis has worked directly with patients through surgeries, dental procedures and appointments while also developing teams and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the center. Each position has allowed her to build on her clinical knowledge while developing new skills in leadership and practice management.
Lewis has helped the pet health center earn and maintain its Gold Cat Friendly Practice designation through the Feline Veterinary Medicine Association, reflecting the team’s commitment to creating a comfortable, low-stress environment for feline patients. She also serves as the center’s resident pet travel expert, helping clients navigate domestic and international pet travel requirements.
As the pet health center has evolved and expanded, Lewis has helped guide the facility through accreditation, infrastructure challenges and its most recent expansion project. Her work is driven by a commitment to exceptional patient care, a positive workplace culture and an outstanding client experience, while also supporting the education of future veterinary professionals.
“I specifically chose general practice because I like to do a little bit of everything,” Lewis said.
That same enthusiasm for variety carries into her life outside the clinic. Lewis enjoys gardening, hiking and camping with her family, especially her two adventurous sons. At home, she is also a proud pet owner to Helix, a German shepherd puppy; Forest, a cat; Shadowman, a snake; Gryffy, a bearded dragon; and Goldie and Poppy, the guinea pigs.
For Lewis, veterinary medicine is a team effort, and veterinary technicians play an essential role in providing quality patient care.
“Society as a whole tends to see one career option in veterinary medicine—the veterinarian. However, quality patient care is often found when two great veterinary careers (LVT and veterinarian) work in tandem.”
