We may be a little biased, but we think we have an incredible team here at Stone Ridge Veterinary Medical Center of Willis. Each member brings something special to our hospital, regardless of their educational or pet-related background. We’d like to shine a spotlight on one of our fabulous client care specialists, Brenda Long, who may have come from a marketing background, but has found her home here at Stone Ridge. 

Question: What is your position at Stone Ridge Veterinary Medical Center of Willis?

Answer: I fill a few different roles—client care specialist (CCS), social media manager, and occasionally, IT guru. 

Q: Where are you from originally?

A: I was born in Houston, and raised in Jewett, Texas.

Q: How and when did you decide you wanted to work in the veterinary field?

A: I eagerly jumped into a public relations/marketing position right after graduating from SHSU. In fact, I was so eager that I was driving from Huntsville to Spring for work. In addition to my normal marketing duties, I organized and supervised events, so those hours typically lasted until after 1 a.m. on the weekends. After the late hours started taking their toll, I began searching for a career opportunity closer to home. I found an ad for SRVMC and a little voice told me to go for it. Turns out the little voice was right! I got a call during my birthday lunch for an interview and the rest is history. (Happy birthday to me!)

Q: What’s your favorite part about working in the veterinary field?

A: I can use my public relations and marketing skills via our social media outlets, while applying my hospitality skills to clients and patients. I also love computers and technology, and I can fulfill that passion by dabbling in IT when we have minor issues.

Q: Tell us about your pets.

A: My house “panther” named Duke is 6 years old and weighs in at a whopping 18 pounds, so I get into trouble with the veterinary technicians and veterinarians when I bring him in because of his weight. I also rescued a doodle mutt named Goldie, who was an owner surrender to our hospital. She’s now 10 years old and utterly obsessed with her dad, although I was the one who saved her life.

Q: Tell us about your human family members.

A: After dating since 2008, my boyfriend became my husband a short 8 months ago. The rest of my family consists of my sister, who is also my best friend, and my parents. My sister also lives in Huntsville, so we spend a lot of time together. My parents have lived in the same small town for more than 30 years, and love to spend their free time fishing.

Q: What’s something about you that might surprise others?

A: People seem surprised when they learn that I grew up in a small town that now has a booming population of around 1,000. Also, people seem shocked to learn I’m Cambodian. Although it’s rusty, I can still understand and speak the language.

Q: What’s your favorite food?

A: Crawfish is my absolute favorite, but any seafood will do. I also love carbs of all forms.

Q: What’s your favorite hobby?

A: I have come to enjoy golfing with my husband, and by golfing, I mean riding along and watching him play, and gawking at homes on the courses. I guess another hobby would be “brunching,” where I get to enjoy my favorite meal of the day.

Q: Do you prefer the mountains or ocean?

A: I haven’t had the chance to experience either, but I think I’d enjoy the ocean more.

Q: Are you a fan of Coke or Pepsi products?

A: Definitely Pepsi, all the way.

Q: Would you rather have a spa weekend or camping weekend?

A: Count me in for a spa weekend! I’m allergic to the outdoors.

Q: Tell us a few things on your bucket list, or something you’d like to accomplish in the next five years.

A: My husband, Jeffery, and I are eager to travel more. We’d love to visit every U.S. baseball stadium. We also can’t wait to start the home-building process—that’s our ultimate five-year goal!

Q: Do you have any unexpected talents?

A: Calligraphy is a skill of mine. When I was working on our wedding invitations, I took an interest in modern calligraphy and hand-addressed everything. I think it’d be fun to open up an Etsy shop one day.

Q: Is there anything else you want to add?

A: Please be kind to your veterinarian. They only have your pet’s best interests at heart.

We’re glad you joined us and learned more about Brenda and her veterinary medicine role. The next time you stop in at Stone Ridge Veterinary Medical Center of Willis for your pet’s appointment, you’ll know the inside scoop behind that friendly face at the front desk.