Welcome To Alcove - a cozy nook for pet lovers

Alcove was created as a calm, compassionate space where pet owners can find thoughtful guidance about caring for the animals they love. My goal is simple: to provide clear, trustworthy information that helps you make confident decisions for your pets while always encouraging open conversations with your veterinarian.

I am Tori, a Certified Veterinary Assistant (2021) and lifelong animal lover. Animals have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up surrounded by dogs and cats, and caring for them always felt natural to me—even before I realized it could become part of my career.

Interestingly, veterinary medicine was not my original plan. In high school I thought I would become a nurse for humans and eventually start my own business. Life had different plans. In 2020 I began school to become a veterinary technician while working in hospitality at a five-star hotel. During that time, I realized something important: I wanted to spend my time helping animals and the people who love them.

The moment that truly changed everything was when my parents’ dog, Faux, became pregnant and had puppies. Being part of that experience—helping care for the puppies and watching them grow—confirmed that I belonged in the world of animal care.

I worked hard through school while also helping care for my grandmother. During that season of life, I also met the man who would become my partner. I completed my Veterinary Assistant associate program and began working in a veterinary hospital while continuing my studies toward becoming a veterinary technician.

Not long after graduating, I was involved in a car accident that changed my path. The physical demands of working in a busy clinic became difficult for my body to sustain, and I eventually had to step away from the hospital environment I loved so much. Returning to a desk job was a practical decision, but it was not easy. I deeply missed working directly in veterinary medicine.

One day my partner asked if I wanted to return to working in an animal hospital, and I remember crying because I missed it so much. But I also knew my body might not be able to keep up with the demands of that work long term.

That moment led me to ask a different question: What am I supposed to do with the knowledge and passion I still have for animal care?

The answer, eventually, was Alcove.

Through Alcove, I am able to continue sharing what I’ve learned in veterinary medicine while also learning alongside you as a pet owner myself.

At home, my life is filled with animals who continue to teach me every day. My two cats, Kani and Jace, have been constant companions and sources of endless personality and curiosity. More recently, our family welcomed Lily, our growing puppy, who has brought plenty of new lessons, laughter, and puppy chaos into our home.

You will often see their experiences woven into the stories and topics we explore here.

Alcove exists to provide veterinary-informed guidance in a compassionate, non-judgmental way. My goal is not to tell you what decisions you should make for your pets. Every pet, every household, and every situation is different.

Instead, you will find things like:

• clear explanations of common pet health conditions

• questions you may want to ask your veterinarian

• what to expect during certain veterinary visits or procedures

• realistic cost ranges for tests, vaccines, and treatments

• insights from both veterinary knowledge and personal experience as a pet owner

I believe deeply that you know your pet best. When we combine that knowledge with trustworthy information and the guidance of a veterinarian, we are better equipped to care for the animals who depend on us.

Alcove is here to help you feel informed, supported, and confident as you navigate life with your pets.

Thank you for being here, and welcome to the Alcove community.