Karina brings with her six years of experience in veterinary medicine. She has been cross-trained as both a veterinary assistant and a receptionist, and has taken on roles in social media development and other forms of communication. Karina’s affinity for animals became apparent early on. At four years of age, she managed to catch a house mouse that resided in her toy box and presented it to her mother, who was not impressed and proceeded to release the rodent outside (much to Karina’s dismay). She grew into an avid pet owner, bringing home stray dogs and cats as well as pocket pets ranging from anoles to hermit crabs. At one of her previous workplaces, Karina became known as the “Chihuahua whisperer” thanks to her rapport with the breed. She has a diverse professional background, having worked in marketing-communications for many years, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Scientific and Technical Communication and a Minor in International Spanish from Michigan Technological University. Outside of the clinic, she moonlights as a writer-editor, taking on projects ranging from writing a children’s book to editing a PhD dissertation. Her skill set also includes impressive vocal impressions of a chicken and a Chihuahua. Karina is living her best life in Marquette with her family: partner, Don; five-year-old daughter, Aubreigh; eight-year-old son, Larry; two chihuahuas, Joie and Cookie; a tripod boxer, Raegan, who has a leg prosthesis; and one polydactyl snowshoe Siamese cat, Lila.