Leah Kienitz, DVM (Resident)

I was one of those kids that always knew I wanted to be a veterinarian. I have always loved animals and had a lot of different pets growing up. One of my favorite things was going to the vet on a Saturday morning with my parents for their wellness visits. I enjoyed watching them help my animals and knew I wanted to help too. I really love the combo of science, my love for animals, and creativity that you find in vet med. It’s a very fulfilling profession.I was one of those kids that always knew I wanted to be a veterinarian. I have always loved animals and had a lot of different pets growing up. One of my favorite things was going to the vet on a Saturday morning with my parents for their wellness visits. I enjoyed watching them help my animals and knew I wanted to help too. I really love the combo of science, my love for animals, and the creativity that you find in vet med. It’s a very fulfilling profession.

What sparked your interest in becoming a surgeon?

I have always been interested in the surgery part of vet med, but being from such a small town in North Dakota, I didn’t realize that specializing was even an option. After I went to vet school and realized the many opportunities I had, I knew I only wanted to be a surgeon. I really enjoy working with my hands and the instant satisfaction that comes with surgically improving an animal’s life. Every case I’ve seen and every surgery I’ve been a part of just keeps confirming that this is what I want to do.

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

One of the biggest challenges can be the post-op/recovery period of the surgery. Surgery can be a huge success and improve the animal’s quality of life. We then need to work with owners and ensure we are providing them with the tools for a good recovery. For example, we do so many TPLOs (ACL repair surgery) every day that this is a very routine procedure to us, but for the owner, this is a big surgery and while benefiting their animal changes their life for the next 3 months during recovery. The pets don’t understand they’re recovering. They just feel better, so it’s up to the owners to make sure the E-collar stays on and their pet stays relaxed so the healing can occur appropriately. I do think it’s a team effort though, and it’s up to us to give them the tools of advice and medications and make sure they are comfortable and prepared.

Is there a particular case that has inspired you?

I think one of my most inspiring cases was a dog I saw in my 4^th year of vet school that had a disc protrusion in her neck causing her to be paralyzed in her front and back legs. We did a ventral slot procedure to relieve the compression and pain. About a week post-op, she was so happy and able to walk with some minor support for her balance. It was amazing to see what a difference the surgery plus rehab made to her quality of life. She helps me remember how much of a difference we can make to every animal we see.

What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my husband, playing board games, finding new places to eat and have recently rediscovered my love of traveling.