Caitlin Kupiec DVM

What sparked your passion to focus on emergency medicine?

My interest in emergency medicine started during my rotating internship, as I spent most of that year in a very busy emergency room. My favorite part of emergency medicine is that you never know what will walk through the door and it’s a field that requires you to be a well-rounded veterinarian. I also discovered that the veterinarian is the source of calm in those stressful, emergent situations and client communication is another aspect of emergency medicine that I am very passionate about.

What are some of the biggest challenges in your area of expertise?

I think the greatest challenge for me is helping owners make difficult decisions for their animal companions, whether that’s difficult because of finances or prognosis. I always want owners to feel that they can trust me to help them through what could be one of their worst days.

Is there a particular case that has inspired you?

Many cases come to mind but the one that stands out is a gunshot wound to the abdomen in a young Husky that I helped managed on intake. I did not know that he was still alive when I pulled him out of the car but after multiple surgeries and a month of extensive care, he walked out of the hospital. It was amazing to see a team come together to save his life when he was rushed through the ICU doors. I will never forget him as a patient, and it made me realize just how far we have come in veterinary medicine and the standard of care that I want to always provide.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, and two perfect dogs. We love finding new dog parks for them to explore and I am also very passionate about traveling!