Dr. Merry & Za’atar
Dr. Shannon Merry moved to the Pacific Northwest from Montana in 2002, she earned her doctoral degree from WSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Merry also holds bachelor’s degrees in Biology/Zoology and Psychology/Communications.
Throughout her career, Dr. Merry has worked with organizations including Vets Without Borders, World Vets, and Danta Conservation for the Tropics, combining her passions for animal welfare and international travel. In 2018, Dr. Merry launched Traveling Tails to provide personalized, in-home veterinary care where pets feel most comfortable.
Outside of work, Dr. Merry and her husband Patrick care for their four cats with names inspired by their favorite international foods: Skyr (Icelandic yogurt), Za’atar (Middle Eastern spice), and sibling pair Lokum (Turkish delight) and Brezel (pretzel). Dr. Merry and Patrick also spend time together making pottery, playing Dungeons & Dragons with friends, listening to live music, or unwinding with a glass of wine from Patrick’s local winery, Merry Cellars.
Roxanne’s path into veterinary medicine began in western Washington, where she worked as a kennel and veterinary assistant before moving to Pullman in 2008 to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences. While studying abroad in Belize, she performed supervised spay and neuter surgeries – an experience that deepened her commitment to animal health and welfare. After completing her degree, she balanced a busy schedule for three years, working as a veterinary assistant during the day and tending bar on WSU’s campus in the evenings. In 2014, Roxanne began working with Dr. Merry at Traveling Tails bringing a calm, friendly presence, and excellent blood draw skills to visits as needed.
When she’s not assisting Dr. Merry, Roxanne divides her time between caring for her spirited orange tabby, Carrot – rescued at just four weeks old – and running her own small business providing in-home pet care. She offers a variety of services independently, including nail trims, gland expression, subcutaneous fluids, demonstrations on pilling or inhaler use, dog walking, and pet sitting.
Contact her directly by phone or text at 360-346-0335, or email roxannetrocino@gmail.com.
Roxanne & Carrot
Please feel free to contact us with any special needs, concerns or questions you may have about your pet or appointment procedures.