Name: Dr. Elizabeth Lopez

Position: Veterinarian

How long have you been a part of the ARL team: 5 ½ years 

Do you have any pets at home: YES – all rescues except for the cows  

2 dogs  

4 house cats  

6 outside cats 

We also have a dairy farm with some ducks, chickens, and cows! 

What inspired you to be a veterinarian/ what led you to pursue a career in animal welfare: I have always loved animals and wanted to prevent animal suffering and overpopulation from a young age.  

What is one of the most important lessons you’ve learned throughout your career: No one knows everything and being able to admit that in the moment and then finding the answers to what you don’t know makes you trustworthy and knowledgeable. Also, there is no substitute for experience.  

How has your role at the ARL helped you grow as a veterinarian: I have become a more efficient surgeon and have learned how to handle many surgical complications when they occur.  

What makes working in a shelter environment different from working in a private vet practice: I am making decisions about treating the shelter animals myself rather than presenting the options to owners and having them make the decisions. This means I can sometimes do more for the animals here at the shelter such as potentially more costly procedures that might not be possible in the same way for owned animals.  

What keeps you motivated on the more challenging days: I think about how what I am doing is helping the animals – spay/neuter to prevent more homeless pets and control disease spread but also other surgeries and medical treatment to alleviate suffering.  

What is one case that reminded you why you chose this profession: Most recently, Seamus came into the shelter with a large wound on his leg. The wound required a lot of management and time to heal, but it eventually did heal, and amputation was no longer necessary despite originally being a concern. I am happy to have been able to help him heal and prevent the need for a painful procedure.  

What is your favorite way to unwind after a busy day in the shelter: Going for a walk in the woods!