Natural Resources: Veterinaria
Natural Resources
Leianne Leeloy: Veterinarian
By Mike Yoshiura
After Li‘i, the poodle, displayed aggressive behavior, his original owners discarded him. But, he was one lucky dog. He was rescued by 13-year-old Leianne Leeloy, who brought him into her family’s home. Leianne knew the pooch had the potential to bite, but there was something about the dog that made her heart melt. After several months of training, Li‘i started trusting humans—a tribute to Leianne’s tender loving care.
“At a young age, I recognized the important bond between humans and animals,” Leianne says. “Li‘i was truly the foundation for my choosing veterinary medicine as a career.” “When my cousin, Henry, found out I was interested in veterinary medicine, he recommended that I read All Creatures Great And Small [by James Herriot],” Leianne says. “It was such an inspiration. I still have the book, and I continue to read about the many experiences Herriot had with animals. The book not only showed me the importance of medical knowledge, but more importantly, the kindness and patience it takes to work with both patients and clients.”
After high school, Leianne attended Kapi‘olani Community College for two years before transferring to the University of Hawai‘i to major in animal science.
She eventually left Hawai‘i to attend veterinary school at the University of Missouri-Columbia. Being born and raised in the Islands, she was a bit apprehensive about living on her own in a new city, but it turned out to be a good choice.
“Going to Missouri for college was such an enjoyable experience,” she says. “I shared an immediate bond with my classmates because we all wanted to be veterinarians, but it evolved into much more than that. We found out that we had so much to teach each other. It was a great learning experience.”
If you’re interested in working with animals, Leianne suggests getting involved early. Volunteer anywhere you can get real-life, hands-on experience—animal hospitals, farms, humane societies or wildlife organizations. Her time at local clinics gave her insight into the industry, from cleaning cages and grooming pets to working alongside doctors. “Volunteering, and working with animals and veterinarians was invaluable to me,” Leianne says. “It was through these experiences that I realized veterinary medicine is more than just working with pets. Yes, I medically care for animals, but I’m also responsible for human health. For example, I educate people about zoonotic diseases, such as rabies and leptospirosis.”
After working in the industry for more than 15 years, Leianne has encouraging words for future vet students. “I would say to anyone—apply. Don’t be concerned about having the perfect application or being accepted on your first try,” she says. “And, don’t be worried about being away from Hawai‘i. Your family will support you, and the years will go by fast.”