Pam knew she wanted to be a veterinarian at the age of four. After receiving undergraduate and doctorate degrees from the University of Pennsylvania, she completed an internship in small animal medicine and surgery at Angell Animal Medical Center. Pam’s desire to bring high-quality veterinary care to one of Boston’s favorite neighborhoods led to the founding of Back Bay Veterinary Clinic in 2000. With a big heart and a soft touch for her patients and their families, Pam leads the team and constantly strives to bring the most exceptional and progressive care to the practice.Outside the office, Pam can be found with her two daughters, husband, and their menagerie of pets. She enjoys equestrian sports, gardening, yoga, and exercise. A foodie at heart, Pam’s always in pursuit of the next best bakery, ice cream shop, or artisanal offering.

What inspired you to work in the veterinary profession?

My desire to become a veterinarian became evident at four years of age. My dog had found a baby cottontail rabbit in our yard and we did our best to try to save it. I can vividly recall the compassion of Dr. Fred Merz, who tried to gently explain that the possibility of saving this rabbit was slim and even our best might not be good enough. The kindness he showed to both this small creature and to me was something that has stuck with me forever. While the bunny did not survive, the lesson and the feeling have constantly fueled my desire to try and help, to try and make a difference to those creatures who cannot speak for themselves. In that, I find incredible satisfaction and fulfillment.

What is your favorite part about your job?

I’ve got a few favorite parts of my job as a practice owner. The first is creating a culture of excellence. Our industry is driven not only by medicine but by customer care and experience. My overarching goal is to have each client leave the practice feeling as if we exceeded their expectations in care and service. While that goal is not always attainable, we strive to make each day the best it can be for our patients, their families, and ourselves. And when we don’t, I take it very much to heart and do my best to set things right. I love watching the organized chaos of a neighborhood clinic, with everything buzzing at once and everyone doing exactly what they need to do so that we may keep the day running and provide care for those who need us, whenever they need us. And I also love observing the extraordinary bonds that form between team members and I’m proud to say that many of them form lifelong friendships under the roof of this practice.

If you didn’t work in veterinary medicine, what would you be doing?

If I wasn’t me, I’d be Joanne Chang. I love everything about flour and baking is my therapeutic release. There’s something about the aroma, the use of the hands and the creation of yummy baked goods that makes me really happy. Perhaps that comes from my innate desire to see others joyful, which is not always possible in my role, but seems much easier to achieve when you’re creating good food. How could you not be happy about a chocolate chip cookie? Or a peanut butter cookie, or carrot cake, or a cinnamon bun?