Prudence Schendel, DVM

From Dr. Prudence Schendel

Hello!

My name is Prudence Schendel, and I am the new veterinarian and owner of Feline Medical Clinic.

I am so grateful to Drs. King and Burhenn for passing the throne and allowing me to pursue my long – held dream of feline practice ownership. They have done a tremendous job of providing top-notch care for cats and have built strong relationships with the clients in this community. I can’t wait to start this new adventure and continue on the legacy of Feline Medical Clinic.

My hometown is Longview, WA and my first job was in Kelso at a veterinary practice as a receptionist where the learning curve was steep but oh, it was so fun. It was during this time where I realized I was meant to become a veterinarian.

One day at this clinic, a woman rushed in and dropped a brand new baby gray kitten in my hand. She exclaimed, “My dog brought this to me and I need to get to work!”

I was flabbergasted. The vets jumped into action to bring this little newborn kitten, who was barely moving, back to life. Once she was stable, they insisted I be the one to raise her and provide her a home. They gave me detailed care instructions and walked me through every step. I was in awe of the veterinarians in this practice. They were so admirable and intelligent, very caring and gentle souls; the way people should be. I strived to become someone like them.

I stayed up most hours of the night for weeks with my new kitten, Willow. She survived and became one of the loves of my life. She taught me how to care for and love animals and inspired me to learn more about the veterinary field.

A few years later, Willow and I were off to vet school. I graduated in 2007 from Washington State University. After this, I relocated to the Puget Sound area where I have been practicing emergency and general practice ever since.

Willow lived to be 17 years old. She was there when I graduated from vet school and bought my first house 8 years later. She was there when my daughter was born and for so many firsts and ups and downs in life. She taught me how amazing cats can be at companionship.

I’ve always loved cats and grew up with them. As a small animal veterinarian, we often work with mostly dogs and feel lucky if we get to see a couple of cats each day. Luckily, I finally found a way to change this for myself and am beyond excited for this life-changing opportunity.

I can’t wait to get to know all the amazing clients of this practice and the new ones in this welcoming and beautiful community.

~ Dr. Schendel