Friends of Strays Hires First Full-Time Veterinarian

Friday, February 1, 2019

For the first time in its 41-year history, Friends of Strays has added a full-time veterinarian to the staff.

Dr. Katie Emerson, DVM, has been with Friends of Strays since Spring 2016 on a part-time basis, but as of February 1st she will be working at the shelter four days a week! Dr. Emerson received her bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Emerson joining us full time” says Friends of Strays CEO, Dara Eckart. “A talented doctor and staunch supporter of our mission, Dr. Emerson’s appointment will significantly increase Friends of Strays’ impact on Saint Petersburg’s homeless animal population in 2019 and beyond. Friends of Strays now has the capacity to care for more cats and dogs here at the shelter as well as offer expanded low-cost medical services to area rescue groups. Congratulations to Dr. Emerson!”

Dr. Emerson’s specific veterinary interests include high-volume spay/neuter, trap-neuter-vaccinate-return for feral cats, & population and infectious disease management. She has been involved in shelter medicine since her college years and among her previous employers are ASPCA, Pets Alive Animal Sanctuary, Pet First Veterinary Hospital, and Operation: SNIP. At Friends of Strays, Dr. Emerson will serve as veterinarian to our adoptable animals while expanding our high-volume spay and neuter program to help control our community’s homeless animal population.

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