Kristen Gumbs

Having the love of a pet is a gift… they love us unconditionally, whether we deserve it or not. I’ve always been a passionate advocate for animals, though I came to veterinary medicine a little later in life after first working as an English Literature teacher. That background in teaching has carried over into my veterinary career, where I especially enjoy interacting with and educating clients.

It’s very important to me that pets have a positive experience during their visits. A fearful, anxious, or stressed pet is less likely to come in when they truly need care. Becoming Fear Free Certified has given me the tools to build stronger connections with my patients while also helping strengthen the bond between pets and the people who love them.

At home, I’m privileged to be the “mom” to Gizmo, my 14-year-old fur-baby who has been with me since he was a pup. Gizmo loves traveling and has joined me on adventures across the Caribbean and several U.S. states. My husband, after being thoroughly vetted by Gizmo, is now just as smitten with him as I am.