Dr. Nichelle

Veterinarian

Dr. Nichelle found her calling in veterinary medicine after a successful 13-year career in the corporate world. In 2007, she made the life-changing decision to return to university, earning her Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with a major in Animal Science from the Nova Scotia Agricultural College in 2009. That same year, she was accepted into the Atlantic Veterinary College, where she graduated as a veterinarian in 2013.

Born in Nova Scotia, Dr. Nichelle has also called New Brunswick home, with a "brief" 13-year stint in Ontario. She currently shares her life with her beloved animal companions: Chopin the cat, Idgie the dog, and Annika the horse, who are the true rulers of her household.

Dr. Nichelle is passionate about preventative medicine, firmly believing that "an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure." She has a special interest in canine and feline dentistry, recognizing it as one of the most common yet overlooked sources of chronic pain and health complications in pets. Her compassionate care extends to senior pets, inspired by her own experiences with older companions.

Outside of work, Dr. Nichelle enjoys spending time at the beach, embarking on side-by-side adventures through muddy trails, and unwinding by a crackling campfire or a roaring woodstove in winter. With a love for all kinds of music and an infectious sense of humor, she’s known for her laughter—and for singing that others may laugh at, too!

Dr. Nichelle's dedication, warmth, and expertise make her an invaluable member of our team, committed to the health and happiness of every patient.

Questions

If you could communicate with animals, what’s the first thing you’d ask them?

For dogs: Why do you insist on eating poop and grass? Seriously, we’d all love to know the logic behind that choice!
For cats: Why do you always pick the carpet or fabric to vomit on? With so many other options, it’s a mystery we’d all like solved!
These questions might seem funny, but they come from a place of curiosity and a genuine desire to understand our pets’ quirky behaviors better!
Can you share a pet care tip or trick that people might not know about?

Did you know that more than 66% of dogs over the age of 3—and even sooner for small and brachycephalic breeds—have dental disease? For cats, the number is over 50%! Dental disease isn’t just painful; it can also significantly impact your pet’s overall health and even shorten their life.
One of the best ways to protect your furry friend is by teaching them to allow tooth brushing. Regular brushing helps maintain a healthy, pain-free mouth and prevents the progression of dental disease. Start early, be patient, and make it a positive experience for your pet—it’s a small step that makes a big difference!
What’s your pet’s name and why did you choose it?

My cat’s name is Chopin—a classy name he already had when I adopted him. However, the team I was working with found it a bit of a mouthful, so they started calling him “Chompy.” Surprisingly, the nickname suits him perfectly since he’s quite the little biter! Despite his playful nibbles, he’s an absolute charmer, and “Chompy” has stuck ever since.
What advice would you give to pet owners to ensure their pets lead healthy lives?

Don’t underestimate the importance of annual checkups—they’re about so much more than just vaccinations. These visits give your pet’s doctor the opportunity to perform a thorough physical exam, gather valuable insights from you about your pet’s behavior and lifestyle, and use their expertise to identify any potential health concerns or red flags early on. Regular checkups are a cornerstone of proactive, preventative care, helping your pet live a longer, healthier, and happier life!
How do you stay updated with the latest developments in veterinary care?

As part of maintaining our licenses, veterinarians and technicians are required to complete a mandated number of continuing education courses—but for me, it’s more than a requirement. I genuinely enjoy learning and continually building on my knowledge and skills. Staying up-to-date ensures we’re always providing the best possible care for our patients, and it allows me to stay inspired and passionate about the ever-evolving field of veterinary medicine.