Dr. Susan

Veterinarian

Dr. Susan is a proud graduate of the Atlantic Veterinary College. After beginning her career in Maine, she realized how much she missed her Maritime roots and made the heartfelt decision to return to New Brunswick in 2003 to raise her family closer to loved ones. After working at a local veterinary hospital for two years, Dr. Susan followed her dream and opened Royal Road Veterinary Hospital in September 2005.

Born and raised in Fredericton, Dr. Susan has always had a deep connection to her community. Her professional passions include Internal Medicine and Feline Medicine and Surgery, where she excels in providing compassionate, top-notch care to her patients.

At home, Dr. Susan embraces a lively household with her three children and a delightful assortment of pets, including three dogs, three cats, a rabbit, two guinea pigs, chickens, goats, and ponies. Outside of her veterinary practice, she loves spending time hiking, practicing yoga, cooking delicious meals for her family, and cherishing the warmth of family gatherings.

Questions

What is your favourite animal and why?

One of my favorite animals is the tiger—it has always fascinated me. While I dream of getting close to one someday, I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible big cats like lynxes and cougars during my time in the USA, gaining a deeper appreciation for their unique characteristics, even though my experience was limited. These encounters have inspired me to continue learning about and advocating for these extraordinary creatures.
What is your pets name and why did you choose it?

One of my pets is named Stark, inspired by Iron Man, as my family has always been huge fans of the original Marvel movies.
Can you share a pet care tip or trick that people might not know about?

Socialization is absolutely essential for puppies to grow into confident and well-adjusted adult dogs. But socialization isn’t just about playing with other dogs at the park or meeting pups on a leash. True socialization involves exposing your puppy to a variety of experiences, such as walking in public spaces, becoming accustomed to different noises, and learning to stay calm around other dogs without reacting. It also means getting them comfortable with being handled—like having their nails trimmed, ears cleaned, and being touched all over. These experiences help build trust and create a solid foundation for a happy, stress-free life with your furry friend!
How do you stay updated with the latest developments in veterinary care?

Attending conferences is one of the best ways I stay informed about the latest advancements in veterinary medicine. These events not only provide invaluable insights into new medications and innovations but also reignite my passion for the profession. Connecting with industry experts and peers at these gatherings keeps me inspired and ensures that I’m offering the most current and effective care for my patients.
What inspired you to work in this industry?

I’ve always been drawn to the complexity and challenge of medical cases—they captivate me. While they may keep me up at night, I find the puzzle of diagnosing and understanding disease processes absolutely fascinating. This passion drives me to continually learn and provide the best possible care for every patient.