We are so excited to announce that we have hired the incredible Dr. Libby Gutting as our new resource center veterinarian!
We recently had the opportunity to conduct a short interview with Dr. Libby to get to know her and her journey to the Humane Society of Utah.
How did you find yourself at HSU?
I graduated from vet school at Oklahoma State University in 2010. After that I stayed in Oklahoma and did a year-long Shelter Medicine and Surgery Internship. I then moved to Milwaukee, where I was the Medical Director at Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control for the past 11 years.
After that long, I felt it was time for me to learn more and offer my experience somewhere else. I wanted to stay in the animal welfare field, as it is where my heart is, so I began my search looking for a position closer to my family, who all live in states surrounding Utah, so this was the perfect place for me!
What does a typical day on the job look like for you?
I’ve been doing a mix between the shelter and surgery so far. I enjoy being part of a team that is made up of different departments that have unique perspectives on plans for the animals coming into care in the shelter. I love working with the shelter animals, doing exams and pathway planning, but am excited to use my surgery skills and expand them as well.
What’s your favorite thing about your job so far?
I really enjoy the collaborative environment I’ve experienced so far here. I feel lucky that I get to spend time in the clinic AND in the shelter and get to be part of both teams. All have been fantastic! I have really been impressed by the education of staff as well. Everyone is so invested in learning and growing, which I think is a sign of an amazing team.
One of my favorite things about shelter medicine is that every day is different, so it never gets boring. And I have definitely already experienced that at HSU. You never know what new and interesting cases you will see every day.
Do you have any advice for people who’d like to enter your field of work?
It can be a tough job, physically and emotionally, but it is worth it to help the lives of the animals and see so many enter the perfect home. Being a veterinarian requires a lot of educational commitment, but I can’t imagine having done anything else.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I’m just happy to be getting to know everyone and learn what HSU is all about. I appreciate the welcome I’ve received and am excited to grow in my career here. (END)
We are so thrilled to have you on the team, Dr. Libby! Thank you so much for all you have done so far, we are excited to see what the future holds!