CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Dr. Mary Blinn is an animal-lover by nature, but  a live-saver by trade.

  • Dr. Mary Blinn retired in 2015 but can't stay away from Mecklenburg Animal Care and Control.
  • She originally worked there for over 30 years.
  • Blinn says it is her passion. 

Dr. Blinn is a veterinarian who worked for the Mecklenburg Animal Care and Control for nearly 30 years.

During that time she inserted thousands of microchips, protected animals from rabies and performed countless health exams.

"It's my passion. When you find your passion, you need to stick with it,” said Blinn.

While Blinn faithfully shows up to work, you may be surprised to find out she actually retired in 2015.

Usually retirees stop working, but Blinn just can't stay away.

"This is home. I love what I do and it's important to me to keep the animals happy and healthy and finding new homes,” she said.

"There is something special about her interaction with the animals. It's almost as though they know she is there to help,” said Melissa Knicely, a Mecklenburg Animal Care and Control spokesperson.

Despite the poking, prodding and precautionary shots -- a wagging tail is a tale-tell sign the pups know they're in good hands.

Some days she'll walk into work and see a list of 100 animals to exam before they're put up for adoption. Dogs and cats are just some of her patients.

"I've noticed my list today and there is a snake on the list for a health exam and a couple of rabbits. There is variety in the different types of animals I get to examine,” she said.

Blinn says she'll stick with it as long as she can. “This is what I was meant to do."

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