Goodrich- Local four-legged friends have gained a new ally recently, with the addition of Dr. Brian Covert, DVM, at the Pytel Veterinary Clinic, 7485 S. State Road.
Working at the clinic has been ‘wonderful,? said Covert, 39. ‘It’s met all my expectations and then some. Every day the staff and clientele grow on me more.?
Covert, a 1985 Goodrich High School graduate, received his bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Michigan-Flint, before completing his doctorate of veterinary medicine from Michigan State University in 2001.
He practiced veterinary medicine in the Clarkston and Waterford area prior to coming back to Goodrich and teaming up with Dr. Pytel.
‘My initial role with Dr. Pytel was as a contract veterinarian helping out shortly after Dr. Hayes moved to Virginia. I quickly developed a fondness for this wonderful clinic, staff and clientele,? said Covert.
Covert said he enjoys treating the variety of animals seen by the clinic, including llamas, alpacas, sheep, goats and cows. Covert said he previously treated mainly smaller animals, such as dogs and cats, due to the suburban nature of the area in which he was working.The change to a rural atmosphere, with a larger variety of animal clientele, is a welcome one, said Covert.
‘My favorite part of the job is probably medicine and surgery, but I also enjoy the opportunity to do the farm crowd. It’s great to get out of the office and meet people and animals in their own environment,? said Covert.
Covert said it is his compassion that sets him apart as a vet.
‘I treat clients as well as animals. I guess I have a lot of empathy,? he said.
Covert lives in the area with his wife and two sons, along with a dog, three cats, a dwarf bunny and a fish named Dog. He said he looks forward to meeting more local people and animals.
‘I love the people out here,? said Covert. ‘They’re very down to earth and you can tell they love their animals.?