10/18/2026
🐾 SPOTLIGHT SUNDAY | FAMILIAR FACES, SAME CARE ❤️
Meet Matthew – CSR/VA | Over 5 Years at McPhillips!
Some of our team members have grown their careers at McPhillips. Matthew? Well, he pretty much grew up here! 😂
Matthew joined us during COVID, coming to work after school as a kennel assistant and "runner" under Dr. Stockburger. Back then, his days involved collecting pets from their owners' vehicles, bringing them inside for appointments, and returning them afterward. As the world reopened and clients returned to the exam rooms, Matthew's role evolved, and so did his skills!
Today, you'll find Matthew doing a little bit of everything, from helping clients at reception to assisting with appointments, patient care, and jumping into whatever needs doing next.
And if things get hectic? That's when Matthew thrives! He loves the fast-paced side of veterinary medicine, especially emergencies, and is often the first to volunteer when an extra set of hands is needed.
❤️ One of his favourite parts of working here? The familiar faces.
After more than five years, Matthew recognizes so many of our clients and patients by name. He remembers their personalities, their quirks, and even which handling techniques help them feel most comfortable.
He admits he sometimes gets excited just looking at the appointment schedule when he spots a favourite patient coming in! For Matthew, those relationships make a difference. When clients recognize and trust the people caring for their pets, it helps make the experience more comfortable for everyone.
Of course, five years at McPhillips also means plenty of funny memories! 😂
Like the time Matthew and another team member were trying to collect a urine sample from a dog. Matthew kept warning that the dog was about to p*e, but his coworker was so caught up in conversation that she missed the opportunity entirely! To this day, they still laugh about it, although apparently there's some disagreement about who was actually distracted. 😉
Or the morning Matthew spotted a loose Golden Retriever running around the parking lot. Worried the dog might run onto the road, he immediately went after him. Jade eventually joined the rescue mission, and after more than an hour of trying, they finally managed to catch him!
The best part? One of the doctors thought Matthew had accidentally let a patient escape and wondered, "What did Matthew do now?!" 😂
Just another day at McPhillips!
Outside the clinic, Matthew is working toward his Microbiology degree at the University of Manitoba. When he's not studying or working, you'll find him fishing (catching the fish is apparently optional 🎣), weightlifting, or training in mixed martial arts.
Around the clinic, he's known for his constant snacking, jokes, and enthusiasm for squeezing just ONE more appointment into an already busy day. His willingness to jump in and help certainly keeps things interesting!
Looking back, Matthew says it's crazy to think he's spent nearly all his teenage years and the beginning of adulthood as part of the McPhillips family.
And that's something pretty special to us, too.
We've watched Matthew grow from the teenager coming in after school into a familiar face our clients recognize and trust. Along the way, he's gained experience, built lasting relationships, and become an important part of our team.
Matthew, we're so glad you've grown up alongside us, and we can't wait to see what the next chapter brings! ❤️
🐾 Have you met Matthew at reception or had him help with your pet's appointment? Leave him a hello in the comments! We'd love to hear from you!
