In Today's Veterinary Business' October-November 2024 issue, they featured 12 veterinarians with expertise that is highly sought after in private practice, academia and the corporate world. Thrive Pet Healthcare's VP of Medical Operations and National Director of Anesthesia and Analgesia Dr. Amber Hopkins was chosen as one of those highly-sought-after specialists.
She describes how she knew she wanted to be a veterinarian and her journey to specializing in anesthesia.
"I love so many things about my career in anesthesia," she says. "I love putting clients at ease. I also love problem-solving. I have a tremendous drive for learning, self-reflection and being the best I can at the things I do."
"Being a veterinary specialist is a lot of work, and it's not easy. You'll have to sacrifice some parts of your life and time to be successful, so it should be your passion. If it's something you love, it will still be fun, and if it's your passion, it will all be worth it."
About Amber Hopkins, DVM, cVMA, CCRT, CVPP, DACVAA
Dr. Hopkins is an experienced veterinary leader who has earned board certification in veterinary medical acupuncture, canine rehabilitation, pain management, and anesthesia and analgesia. She spent seven years practicing as a full-time anesthesiologist and pain specialist at a large specialty and emergency practice in San Diego and served for four years as Medical Director and anesthesiologist for a large specialty, emergency, and primary care practice in Colorado. Most recently, Dr. Hopkins supported doctors and leadership team members for more than 60 hospitals across the country as Regional Medical Director at Southern Veterinary Partners. As a member of Thrive Pet Healthcare's Specialty Directors Board, Dr. Hopkins creates anesthesia and analgesia training courses and standards of care for our medical team members to improve medical outcomes for the pets and people they serve. Dr. Hopkins also has a role in leading regional medical field operations for hospitals in the west region.
