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"I’ve
always loved animals," says Dr. Borgerson, explaining why she
chose veterinary medicine. "When they are sick, it is really
rewarding when you can help them."
Dr.
Borgerson grew up in Mount Pulaski and graduated from the University
of Illinois in Champaign. For the past year, she has worked at the
clinic in Lincoln with Dr. Ron Pierce, who she says is like her
"second father." Her love for animals began at an early
age. She started working with animals at the clinic while she was
still a student in high school. "Dr. Pierce has been my
mentor," she says.
A
practicing vet for six years, Dr. Borgerson loves the challenges
that each day of work brings. "Sometimes it’s a puzzle,"
she explains. "They (the animals) can’t tell you how they’re
feeling." To discover how to best treat an animal, it is often
a process of elimination--what Dr. Borgerson refers to as a
"rule-out list." She takes into consideration what is most
likely the problem and uses that as a starting point. "Most of
the time the first line of defense works," she explains.
"But it’s important to have a back-up plan," she adds.
[Buck gets settled by Dr. Borgerson]
At
times, Dr. Borgerson deals with unusual cases. She recalls a time
when a dog ingested a large, leather fireplace glove, which had to
be surgically removed from its stomach. Also, she says that at
certain times of the year, such as Easter and Valentine’s Day,
pets will often come in sick because they have eaten chocolate or
leftovers from the trash.
On
a typical day, however, Dr. Borgerson provides common services such
as vaccinations and nail clippings. She often treats animals with
skin problems, broken bones, heart worms and ear difficulties. By
late morning, she is performing surgeries, including routine spays
and neuters. In all, she works approximately 60 hours each week,
including emergencies she handles while on-call.
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One
of the many reasons Dr. Borgerson loves animals is because of their
unconditional love. Simply talking about her compassion for animals
brings tears to her eyes. "They know when you’re trying to help
them," she says. "I really feel for the people and the
animals."
And
while she is trying to help her patients, she also understands the
importance of comforting them. That is why she often offers treats to
the animals following their visit. "It’s important to show
concern for both the owner and the animal," she explains, which is
why she also spends time answering questions and explaining procedures
to her clients.
[Dr. Borgerson carefully examines
every patient]
When
she is not treating her patients, she also takes time to research and
read about issues in veterinary medicine. "It’s a learning
process," she says, adding that she studies so she can "offer
the best to my clients."
Outside
the office, Dr. Borgerson enjoys participating in the community. She
sings in both her church and the community choir, and can be found
attending community theater productions. Also, she enjoys working in her
flower garden and collecting antiques. Although she never thought she’d
return to the area after college, she is quick to add, "I’m glad
I’m here."
[Katherine
Heller]
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