Veterinarian Living Her Dream

When Lynn Anne Evans was growing up in Cranston, she always fantasized about becoming a veterinarian. The owner of Barrington Veterinary Clinic has turned a fantasy into reality.

At the time, girls weren't encouraged to believe they could succeed in the field of science, and Evans never felt confident that she could become her heart's desire. So, after high school, Evans obtained a masters degree in English and communications and set about teaching at Syracuse University.

In 1978, Evans married her graduate school sweetheart, Nick O'Donohoe, an account executive and technical writer. Four years later,  at his urging, she started taking classes part-time to fulfill her childhood dream.

Evans went full time two years later and, in 1988, many years after that little girl from Cranston dreamed of helping animals, Evans graduated from the Virginia Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine with a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine.

A move back to Rhode Island to be near family followed, and Evans began working for the Riverside Animal Hospital. Five years later, it was time for a new challenge. In 1993, Evans bought the Barrington Veterinary Clinic at 260 Waseca Ave.

When she first bought the business, Evans operated on a limited basis. But her commitment, dedication, and hard work paid off and over time the practice expanded. Evans now is assisted by two employees, Lisa Serio and Tara Bernard, both of whom share her same love of animals and desire to care for them.

Evans considers her goal to be lifelong care for her client's pets. She appreciates that her clients tend to be well-educated when it comes to the care of their animals.

"Despite what may, in some cases, be very differing financial circumstances, Barrington pet owners tend to be very committed to their pets," she said.

Evans herself is the owner of a five-year-old rescued Golden Retriever, named Coyote, and an almost-18-year-old cat, named Deuce, so she understands the great joy a pet can bring.

"It's pretty lovely to know someone who is going to be so happy to see you, no matter what," she said.

"They're going to be happy to see you no matter if you're rich or poor, if you have the right relationship," Evans added.

As part of helping owners and their pets have the right relationship, Evans tries to pick up behavior problems early, listening to owners' concerns and looking for cues from the animals. She relishes the opportunity to help owners and pets alike, and considers every day that she spends at the clinic an enjoyable one.

"Who wouldn't love the fact that you get up in the morning to spend time with animals," enthused Evans.

Evans has a little bit of advice and encouragement for youngsters considering a career in the veterinary sciences.

Vet schools aren't necessarily looking for those applicants who had an intense commitment to biology at the age of 12, she said, and not much interest in anything else.

"Be well-rounded. Have a broad perspective," she said. "And don't be afraid to try."