Six Questions with a Specialty Leader: Dermatology

Why did you choose to become a veterinarian? 

Well, I didn’t really “choose” to be a veterinarian. Rather, I semi-stumbled into the profession as the result of the path I found myself on in the late 1990s while in the company of mentors at The Ohio State University (Drs. Kenneth Kwochka, Andrew Hillier, Lynette Cole, and Gwendolen Lorch). 

During and post college, I knew I wanted to continue to compete for USA Modern Pentathlon as a full-time athlete. As a member of various teams/squads in the 1980s and 1990s, I was able to travel the world, train and compete with athletes of all nations, and delay adulting. I intended to compete through the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and try and make that team, so I trained full time (funded by stipends, odd jobs, etc.). When the IOC did not slate the women’s event for the ’96 games, I moved on. I had been laser focused on that goal and had not considered next steps. One of my life-long teammates finished undergrad at Texas A&M and headed to veterinary school. Having been in lockstep with her, I decided to explore that path as well.

Pursuing veterinary medicine wasn’t a totally insane idea, however. I did have animal experience. My family raised and showed Rottweilers, and I rode and showed (briefly and not that well) horses. At our family “ranch” in Texas, we leased land to ranchers to run their beef cattle and Texas Longhorns. Of course, we had many pocket pets, random cats, and fish over the years.

When my then boyfriend, and now husband of 25 years (Greg Pinchbeck), moved from Texas to Columbus, Ohio, for business school, I joined him. I looked for roles in medical research (of any type) and found myself at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine interviewing for an entry-level research associate position to manage clinical trials. Securing that role plopped me right into the renowned Department of Dermatology and that was the start of my veterinary medicine career.

I worked for and was mentored by the best team of dermatologists. Immersed in their brilliance, I had found my people. We did our research, reported, and published our work. I was hooked. Applying to veterinary school. I vowed to keep my mind open to other specialties but knew I would likely be a dermatologist.  

Why did you choose your specialty?

I pursued dermatology, because of the genuine love of dermatology I witnessed among the diplomats and how they openly transferred that knowledge to the next generations of aspiring colleagues. Everyone I have ever met in the U.S. and internationally loves what they do. I wanted to be part of that positive community. I wanted to dabble in research, help patients feel better, educate pet parents, and share dermatology skills with referral partners so that they could do the same.

What’s one of your best memories of a patient along the way?

Before veterinary school, as a research associate, I was tagged to enroll patients for an allergy clinical trial. Six or seven years later, one of the enrollees, Albert, showed up for a consult in the dermatology service when I was a resident. He was old and grey faced, but I recognized him (and his family) and was thrilled to be his caregiver for a few more years. He later died of lymphoma, but I still think about him.

What accomplishment in your career are you most proud of?

There are a few. Presenting at a dermatology meeting as a student was my first taste of being part of a specialty that was so supportive. Securing funding for various research projects during veterinary school and as a resident was affirming. Of course, passing boards is a solid accomplishment for any of us. I didn’t think I was ready to sit for boards, as I was not granted a block of time to study without other clinical obligations. My mentors assured me my training over three years would be enough and that I would be fine. Just sit and take the exam. They were right. I approached my residency as I would approach any big life goal. All day, every day, I worked to make sure I did not leave anything on the table.

What advice would you have for someone considering veterinary medicine and your specialty in particular?

Veterinary medicine right now is tough. Head up. One problem at a time. Your training will get you there. Every day is a new opportunity to make a difference. Keep it simple and help the patient or family in front of you one problem at a time. Dermatology is a great specialty, and we have room for a range of talents and expertise within the college and at MedVet. There is a path for everyone, and MedVet nurtures that. Don’t get caught up in the moment and keep your eye on the long game. Everyone has something to contribute to veterinary medicine and MedVet. Show your cards, display your talents, and offer your strengths.

What are you most excited about/proud of for the dermatology specialty at MedVet?

With expansion throughout the United States, I’m proud that MedVet is building a strong, core dermatology team across our hospitals. I am also proud to be a part of working with new and seasoned diplomats who will be part of MedVet’s legacy. At the moment, I’m especially excited to have a second dermatologist at MedVet Norwalk (Dr. Kaitlin Hopke). I look forward to supporting her career and contributions to our team and veterinary dermatology for years to come. Our patients are special, and our referral partners are valued. With that foundation, and a growing team, life is good.

Get to know more about Dr. Lauren Pinchbeck.