Hi everyone, my name is Zahra Rahimi. I graduated as a veterinarian (DVM) in 2009 and completed my PhD in Animal Feed Health in 2017. I worked as a veterinarian and feed health specialist at multiple companies for 14 years. I was fascinated by how nutrition influences health and disease prevention. I am so excited to obtain this opportunity to join the OVC Pet Nutrition team and gain more experience working with professionals in this field.
How would you describe yourself?
I see myself as kind, curious, detail- oriented, and dedicated to supporting both people and animals. I have a strong drive for learning and actively seek opportunities for personal and professional growth. I value being friendly, empathetic, and determined. Additionally, my interest in art has contributed to my calm, patient, and open-minded nature, all of which have greatly benefited me throughout my career as a veterinarian.
What interests or motivates you most?
To see animals live healthy, pain-free and in a state of overall well-being.
My passion is enhancing the quality of life for animals by ensuring they receive the best possible care.
Where did you work before joining the OVC Pet Nutrition Team?
Before joining the OVC Pet Nutrition Team, I worked as a veterinarian and also as a feed health specialist in several companies related to animal nutrition. During this time, I was involved in research related to nutrition, feed and food quality, and formulation to optimize animal health. In addition, I developed experience of teaching and facilitating several training sessions and workshops.
When did you become interested in nutrition?
My interest in animal nutrition developed during my veterinary studies and working as a veterinarian and deepened as I pursued my PhD in Animal nutrition and Feed Health. I became particularly fascinated by how nutrition influences health, disease prevention, and overall well-being, which led me to focus on this field.
Tell us about your pets, past and present.
There were many animals in our house as family pets. When I was a child, I had some chickens, and I liked to feed them by hand. Then we had two birds, a finch and a couple of budgies. Plus, we have a dog named LEO, who was born in November 2021. He is a very cute, kind and curious dog with fluffy hair. He is energetic and loves to play with me most of the time.
