Holiday Hours : Christmas Eve & New Year Eve Open half day 8:30 am - 1:00 pm

Dr. Kara Havens

Medical Director

Born and raised in San Diego, Dr. Havens earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from St. George’s University and completed her clinical year at Washington State University. She has special interests in oncology, internal medicine, and geriatric care.

I discovered my passion for animals at a young age and decided to pursue a career in veterinary medicine at 18 after realizing my affinity for medicine. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biology from Point Loma Nazarene University in May 2009, followed by a Master in Public Health (MPH) in December 2012 and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in June 2013 from St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine in Grenada, West Indies.

Attending veterinary school in the Caribbean was a fantastic experience. I learned surgical skills early on, fostered several stray animals and found them loving homes, and even brought back a dog and cat for myself!

I completed my clinical year at Washington State University, where I developed particular areas of interest in oncology, anesthesia, internal medicine, and infectious disease control. Throughout my early career—and due to the personal health issues of family pets—I deepened my love for geriatric medicine, nephrology, and dermatology.

What I enjoy most about being a veterinarian is seeing sick and injured pets restored to health and forming lasting relationships with both pets and their human families. I love sharing in the joy of a new puppy or kitten, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to help improve the quality of life for senior pets.

Away from work, I enjoy spending time with my partner and our pets—Binx, Blaze, and Billie Sue. We have regular family dinners and playdates with my brother’s dog, Winston, the Shiba Inu. In my spare time, I enjoy playing the piano, attending Broadway shows, traveling, spending time outdoors, going to church, and contributing to the preservation of the Basenji breed.