At The Drake Center, it’s no surprise our families are a bit…furry. From dogs and cats to horses, chickens and an emu, we’d like you to meet the loves of our lives—our pets. 

Proud pet parent: Dr. Jennifer Hamlet, veterinarian

  • Lilly, pug
  • Willis, pug
  • Kitty Boy, DSH

If you had to choose, would you say you are a cat person or a dog person? Why?

I am definitely drawn to dogs because they are more social. My favorite cats are those that act like little dogs! I also enjoy the challenge of working with fractious cats since I have one myself!

How did you get your pets? Why did you choose those particular breeds?

I got Lilly through a client when their friend, who had only had her a short time, discovered she was too allergic to keep her.

I got Willis when I discovered that Lilly had chosen my husband as her favorite and I needed my own dog. He is my sweetie!

Kitty Boy was relinquished to our hospital by his owners when he required intestinal surgery to remove a baby bottle nipple. Dr. Moore and I fixed him and I was going to take him until we found him a home.

What is special about your pets?

Lilly is a diva and the boss. She loves my husband more than anyone else and he refers to her as his “little princess.”

Willis is the gentle one. He loves to lick Lilly’s face and follow her around. He also loves to play with Kitty Boy—they are great friends.

Kitty Boy is an interesting cat. When he was sick, he was so sweet, but once he was feeling better, he let us know he was not one to mess with! He is great at home, but he becomes “that cat” when he comes to the hospital. He is also quite large. Dr. Drake refers to him as my “panther.”

What is the cutest thing about your pets, physically?

The cutest thing about Lilly is the little prance she does when she sees my husband.

Willis' face is the cutest!

I love Kitty Boy's long tail.

What do you let your pets get away with that you probably shouldn't?

They get away with everything, including sleeping under the covers every night!

What is your favorite memory or story about your pets?

Once, when I fostered a cat at home for a few weeks, the three of them really bonded. It was so cute to see them all lay on the dog beds together. They were so happy when that kitty left!

What do your pets bring to the dynamic of your family?

All my pets are unique, but blend together well. They can be demanding, but they are so fun and make me laugh all the time!