06/10/2026
❤️AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM AUTUMN❤️
There are some messages that are incredibly hard to write, and this is definitely going to be one of them!
After 28 wonderful years at Carolina Virginia Animal Hospital, the time has come for me to begin a new chapter. Recently, I was presented with an incredible opportunity that I simply could not pass up. The truth is, there will never be a "perfect" time to say goodbye but I wanted to let everyone know that I will be leaving my job as “the girl at the front desk” in the next couple weeks. Leaving a place that has been such a significant part of my life is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. After a lot of prayer and reflection, I know in my heart that it is time for me to take this next step. I am so excited for what the future holds, and this opportunity will allow me to spend more time with my family and be more present for the moments that matter most to me and that is a gift I never want to take for granted.
As some of you know, I started working at CVAH in 1998 when I was just 17 years old. I never could have imagined that an "after school" job would become such a huge part of who I am today. What began as a job quickly became a second home, and the people here became family. For nearly three decades, I have had the privilege of answering your calls, greeting you at the front desk, loving on your pets, and sharing in the special bond you have with them. I've watched families grow as they welcomed new pets into their homes. We've celebrated countless happy moments together as those puppies and kittens grew into cherished companions, and I've also had the honor of standing beside and crying with many of you during some of the hardest moments, saying goodbye to beloved family members. The relationships, memories, and friendships I've made here will always hold a special place in my heart.
I would be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to thank the two men who gave a quirky 17-year-old girl a chance all those years ago....Dr. Andy and Dr. Mitch ~ Over the years, you two became so much more than employers. You have been mentors, role models, and father figures who supported me through so many of life’s milestones. You were there through my high school prom, my graduation, my marriage, the birth and raising of my children, and now, amazingly, it has come full circle all the way to my own 17 year old daughter’s high school graduation. Your guidance, patience, friendship, and belief in me helped shape the person I am today, and I will never be able to fully express how grateful I am for everything you and your families have done for me.
I also want to say thank you to Dr. Josh ~ When you took over the family practice, I liked to joke that you "inherited" me with the hospital whether you liked it or not. The truth is, I've always kind of thought of myself as a proud big sister cheering you on from the sidelines and it has been such a privilege to watch you grow from a young boy into the incredible veterinarian, leader, and friend you are today. I couldn't be more proud of everything you have accomplished. The care, dedication, and vision you have for this hospital are evident in everything you do, and it has been so exciting to watch you continue to build upon the strong foundation that was created here. While I know the hospital is not technically “my baby” , I know a piece of my heart will always be here. After 28 years, it is impossible not to take immense pride in what Carolina Virginia Animal Hospital has become to me, our families, our pets, and the surrounding community. I sincerely hope that in some small way I helped contribute to what it is today, and I will always be one of its biggest supporters. I wish you nothing but continued success, happiness, and great things in the years ahead.
To every client, coworker, doctor, friend, and pet who has been part of this journey—thank you! ❤️
Thank you for your trust, your kindness, your support, and for allowing me to be a tiny part of your lives for the last 28 years.
While my role at Carolina Virginia Animal Hospital is coming to an end, the memories, friendships, and love I have for this place and everyone in it NEVER will.
With all my love and gratitude,
Autumn 💞
