Dr. Victoria Bender is a 2016 graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and earned her BS in Biology from Duke University. She was born in New York and raised in Florida, where she still has family. While in veterinary school, she spent time learning at various zoological institutions, externed at Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom, and conducted research on the immune systems of elephants and manatees. After graduating, she returned to North Carolina to complete an internship in avian and exotic animal medicine. Since then, she has worked with a caseload made up exclusively of exotic mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, and wildlife.
Outside of the hospital, Dr. Bender enjoys speaking with local groups and classes about various topics in veterinary medicine. She is passionate about avian and exotic pets and loves to educate others about them. Dr. Bender is currently President of the Association of Exotic Mammals Veterinarians (AEMV), after serving on the board for four years. She plans to pursue board certification in exotic companion mammals. Dr. Bender also works as a professional actor, improviser, and costume designer. She hosts weekly trivia nights and enjoys both domestic and international travel. She is excited to experience and participate in the art and theater scene around Philadelphia