Kennedy has always had a deep love for animals — though if you’d asked her when she was five, she would’ve fiercely denied it. During a trip to Lake Red Rock with her grandparents, she curled up in the backseat with their basset hound, Sammy. Her grandpa smiled and said, “You’re going to work with animals one day.” Kennedy, full of 5-year-old sass, shot back, “No, I’m not!” Her grandpa just laughed, and sure enough, he turned out to be right. Today, Kennedy proudly works as a veterinary assistant at Ingersoll Animal Hospital, and she credits her grandpa (and sweet Sammy) for planting the seed that eventually grew into her dream career.

Kennedy’s journey officially began in high school when she took a job as a kennel attendant at a doggie daycare. While she loved caring for the animals, she quickly realized she wanted to do more. In 2020, fresh out of high school, she joined Ingersoll Animal Hospital where she worked her way up to a veterinary assistant. The role turned out to be the perfect blend of her two interests — animals and medicine. Kennedy especially enjoys taking x-rays and monitoring surgeries, where the fast-paced, high-focus environment keeps her on her toes.

At home, Kennedy shares her life with her adorable son (born in 2022) and her senior cat, Rupert. The two are the best of friends — whether they’re playing with the laser pointer, cuddling during movie nights, or simply causing mischief around the house. Kennedy hopes to add a dog to the family soon so they can enjoy more outdoor adventures together, just like she did growing up with her beloved Weimaraner, Gretel — her “soul dog” who forever solidified her love for the breed.

In her free time, Kennedy taps into her creative side. She’s a talented painter (with a few art awards under her belt) and hopes to make more time for her art again soon. She’s also a passionate gardener — and at one point nurturing over 50 houseplants! Now that she has a home of her own, Kennedy is excited to create a beautiful outdoor garden and turn her space into a cozy green oasis.