October’s Texas Strong Woman of the Month–Amanda Smith, DVM–is probably the one I’ve known the longest of any I’ve featured, since she was in veterinary school and dating one of my husband’s close friends, who is now her husband.

Over the last 8 years, I have watched this beautiful and courageous woman become a dedicated wife, mom, veterinarian, and entrepreneur. Amanda works incredibly hard at everything she does and cares so deeply about the people (and pets!) in her life, and I am truly honored to call her my friend.

Meet Amanda Smith

Originally from George West, Amanda now lives near Austin with her husband Whit and their three young kids, ages 4, 2, and almost 6 weeks (yes, you read that right!). Following in her late grandfather’s footsteps, she earned her degree in veterinary medicine from Texas A&M University 7 years ago and has been taking amazing care of animals (and their owners) in central Texas ever since.

This month, Amanda fulfilled a longtime dream of opening her very own, state-of-the-art veterinary clinic and pharmacy, Springs Veterinary Care in Dripping Springs.

Texas Strong Woman of the Month

Favorite title(s) for yourself

My favorite titles are wife, momma, God-fearing woman, veterinarian, team leader, and cheerleader.

Your toughest lesson or challenge

Patience is my biggest challenge. I use all of my patience on patients and then struggle to be patient with my family.

Your proudest accomplishment

My family. My husband and babies are the best of me.

Your role models or mentors

My grandfather is my role model and was a wonderful mentor.

He lived by the Golden Rule and was honest to a fault. There was no sugar coating, and he lived to be the best at his job. He had a wonderful heart, and I was so lucky to have known and learned from him.

Your best advice for newbies

Expectations and communication. Set expectations and know what is expected of you. Learn and study communication. These areas will serve you in veterinary medicine, marriage, parenting, and friendship.

Be kind. Be honest. Treat others how you would like to be treated.

Banish the word “perfect” from your vocabulary. Perfection is not something to be attained. Don’t strive for it, it is a myth and something that will only lead to heartache. Do your best. That is your perfect.

How you’re building community

I won’t say I am building my community. Yet.

I am building my family and my tribe. I am building them to be strong and kind and treat others the same.

At work, I am building this in my staff and hoping this will infiltrate our community.

Quote or verse you live by

Be honest, and treat others how you wish to be treated.

Favorite nonprofits you support

I am not a global giver. I tend more to give to those closer in need. When I hear that someone needs something in particular, I try to help in those specific ways. I love Operation Christmas Child as well.