Veterinarian Overview
Dr. Melissa deBlok is a General Practitioner who began practicing at All Friends Animal Hospital in 2007 and became a co-owner in 2009. "I have always felt a special connection with animals and have always had an interest in science and medicine," says Dr. deBlok when asked about her decision to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. Now that she is a veterinarian, she says she finds great satisfaction in "healing pets and therefore, people." A native of East Longmeadow, Massachusetts, Dr. deBlok attended Holyoke Community College and then the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, for her undergraduate studies. She received a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science in 1996 and graduated Cum Laude. In 1997, she enrolled in Oklahoma State University's Center for Veterinary Health Sciences and received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2001. During her time in veterinary school, she was inducted into the Phi Zeta Veterinary Honor Society, received the Salisbury Scholarship for Clinical Proficiency, made Dean's List and President's Honor Roll, received the Springfield Kennel Club Scholarship, Big Y Scholarship for Academic Excellence, and the Stephen Bufton Award for Women in Leadership. Her areas of special professional interest include holistic and integrative medicine and wellness and preventative medicine. She is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association, and the American Veterinary Holistic Medical Association. Her pets include two cats named Herman and Harley. Dr. deBlok's interests include yoga, kayaking, hiking, traveling, reading and horseback riding.
