Despite initially going to school to become a paramedic, Rylee realized relatively early on that she was far more interested in working with animals than with humans. As one of the veterinary assistants here at Ingersoll Animal Hospital, Rylee is able to combine her medical training with her passion for pets, which has turned out to be the perfect fit!

Prior to joining the Ingersoll team, Rylee’s work experience took place in various zoos and aquariums, where she helped to care for a variety of different species. She also volunteered at the NOAA Sea Turtle Rescue, where she assisted in rehabilitating injured turtles. In her current role as VA, Rylee enjoys talking to clients, learning about their pets, and establishing relationships with them.

Outside of the clinic, Rylee lives in Des Moines with her son and their animal family, which consists of a trick-loving mutt named Gary, a bearded dragon named Fiber, a leopard gecko named Bagel, and several fresh and saltwater fish. When she’s not busy working or tending to her family, Rylee can usually be found doing something outdoors, especially if it involves hiking in the woods or swimming at the beach.