Cynthia Hoeft was born and raised in Estacada, Oregon. She received her Associate of Arts degree from Northwest College in Kirkland, Washington and went on to receive her Bachelor of Science degree from Portland State University. Dr. Hoeft then attended Oregon State University's College of Veterinary Medicine where she completed her doctorate in 1997. After graduation, Dr. Hoeft joined the veterinary staff at Eagle Fern Veterinary Hospital, where she previously had been employed as kennel help and veterinary technician during her high school and college years. Dr. Hoeft's professional interests include small animal medicine and surgery, animal behavior, and preventive medicine. She is a member of the AVMA, OVMA, and PVMA. Additionally, Dr. Hoeft enjoys helping volunteers interested in veterinary medicine to learn about the profession [citation].