VSx Chicago Surgeon

Dr. West developed a love for animals at a young age, often bringing home stray dogs or injured wildlife. That early compassion, combined with a growing fascination for physiology during her undergraduate studies as a biology major, sparked a passion for medicine. While in school, Dr. West also worked caring for dogs, an experience that helped her realize she wanted to merge her love for animals with medicine by pursuing a career in veterinary medicine.

Dr. West earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Louisiana State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine in 1988. Following graduation, she completed an internship at Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, before going on to complete a surgical residency at the University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine. She finds surgery especially rewarding, as it allows her to restore function, treat life-threatening conditions, and significantly improve quality of life for her patients.

Dr. West approaches patient care with the philosophy of treating every animal as if it were her own. She believes that clear communication, thoughtful medical decision-making, and compassionate interactions with both pets and their owners are essential to providing the highest level of care.

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Doctor of Veterinary Medicine – Louisiana State University, 1988

Rotating Internship – Angell Memorial Animal Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, 1989

Surgical Residency – University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, 1992

Diplomate, The American College of Veterinary Surgeons, 1997