Dirk Wigen has been a pharmacist at the WSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital since he joined our team in August of 2022. Originally from the small town of LaCrosse, Washington, about 45 minutes from Pullman, Dirk is a lifelong Coug, having majored in general medical sciences as an undergraduate before earning a Doctor of Pharmacy in 2016.
He and his wife, RayAnna, have been married for seven years and have three children, Ryla, Granger and Hadley; one dog, Bowser; two cats, Millie and Milo; a pair of rabbits, Zoey and Trouble; 13 chickens; and a pet turkey named Gus.
What is your typical day like at the VTH?
A typical day at the VTH includes primarily filling and checking prescriptions, working as a double check to ensure doses are safe, effective, and appropriate. We also get to help students learn more about some of the medications they are giving to patients as well as giving them pointers and showing them where potential errors could occur and how to help prevent medication errors from occurring.
What made you want to work in veterinary medicine?
During my time working with a pharmacy that did a fair amount of compounding, I enjoyed formulating compounds and coming up with solutions for owners to be able to give medications to pets through use of different formulations and flavoring and sometimes using topical options to administer medications and mask the taste of some of the not so pleasant tasting medications. I really enjoyed helping owners come up with ways to be successful taking care of their furry friends, and when the position opened up for a pharmacist at the VTH, I was excited for an opportunity to come back to WSU and be able to work with animals.
What is your favorite thing about your job?
I enjoy seeing the different kinds of pets that come through the doors, but I also enjoy helping and teaching our students and interacting with staff.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, exploring the outdoors, hiking, hunting, fishing, and going to Coug games.
What advice would you give to pet owners?
Enjoy and spend as much time as you can with your pets. They are family, and they are only here for a short time, so it is important to take care of them in the best ways possible.