When not at the clinic, Dr. Filchner values spending time with her family, whether at home or attending one of her two daughters’ field hockey games. She also shares a home with her labrador retriever Clyde and two cats, Bonnie and Scamp.
"Being in the family of a veterinarian, there really isn't any way not to be exposed to the profession—both the good and the bad. As I got older, I enjoyed my experiences in the animal hospitals more and more, until I realized I couldn't see myself doing anything else. I love every aspect of it: the patients, the clients, the medicine, even the occasional long night."
Dr. Ben has a particular passion for surgery and refined his skills under the mentorship of his late father, Dr. Edward A. Shelly. However, Dr. Ben has no greater joy than interacting with his clients and patients - whether they are new to the area or have trusted his family for generations. "What keeps me going is knowing that I am strengthening the human-animal bond between my clients and their pets. Growing up, my pets were always there for me and to be able to be there for my patients when they need it most is the greatest reward my career gives back to me, and to me is the essence of what this profession aims to be."
Guided by the values instilled by his father, Dr. Ben continues to lead his practice with the same compassion and dedication to veterinary excellence.
When not at work, Dr. Ben enjoys spending time in his garden, perfecting his skills in the kitchen, and playing basketball. Often he can be found visiting friends and classmates in Philadelphia.
