Practice Manager Betters Lives of Houston’s Pets
Practice Manager Anna Osorio got her start in education before jumping into the world of pet care. We caught up with her to chat career, why she enjoys being a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Champion, and a typical day at Banfield—filled with plenty of dog and cat kisses! Enjoy.
What drove you to become a CSR Champion?
Giving back to our community is essential to me, and helping Houston South is one way to give back. Hurricane Harvey was devastating to the people in Houston and their fur babies. The first volunteer event we did was at the Harris County Animal Shelter for two days. People were so grateful. So appreciative that Banfield Associates turned out in large numbers to make sure their pets got necessary care. It was a long, emotional day but so rewarding. Seeing so many people turn out to donate their time and expertise is what I love about being a CSR Champion.
I am looking forward to when we can do our Big Volunteer Events. In the meantime, I look for any and all opportunities to volunteer in small ways that provide a significant impact.
What do you like about the culture at Banfield?
I love the culture we created within the Cinco Squad. It’s centered on being kind, caring, saying “Yes” to pets in need, and taking care of each other. I love the new Banfield campaign, too. Bhere focuses on being present. It’s easy to get caught up in metrics, but focusing on what we are doing in the moment with the pets in front of us is key. Bempowered reminds us to intentionally focus on empowering not only ourselves but our fellow associates. Bpassionate, my favorite, reminds us we’re doing what we love and doing it well.
I saw a connection between my administrative role in schools and pet care. There are similarities between the parents of dogs and cats and the parents of the kids at my former schools. I had moved to Texas and was looking to stretch myself. I knew this would be challenging but something I wanted to try. I love kids and dogs and cats, so Banfield has been a perfect fit!
What is your typical day like?
My days at Banfield are filled with plenty of dog and cat kisses! Typically, I start the day checking in with my Teams. What do they need from me to support them? Then, I’m onto my “First 30”. The rest of the day varies with coaching/mentoring, 1:1’s, making connections with owners, and looking for creative solutions to situations that arise.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
If I had a superpower, it would be the ability to create an empathetic world. One where we listened to each other, respected our differences, learned from each other, and helped each other.
Where is the first place you will travel to post COVID?
To Nebraska to have a Celebration of Life get together with my big Italian family, our relatives, and friends. The celebration is for my big brother Mike, who died on Nov. 27th due to Covid-19.
If you could be any animal, what would you be?
A unicorn because they poop rainbows and spread magic!
