CEO and Veterinarian, Vitalis Vet Visit
Dr. Karie Johnson — Owner of Vitalis Vet Visit and Veterinary Communications Manager at Nestlé Purina PetCare. She is a 2019 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Johnson brings a rare blend of hands-on clinical experience (small animal associate, mobile practice, and clinic owner) and industry-facing communications work, giving her a deep understanding of how veterinary skills translate beyond the exam room. She is a published author in JAVMA on nutrition and osteoarthritis, has been a medical reviewer for Business Insider and Purina.com, and holds certifications in Fear Free, Low Stress Handling, Human-Animal Bond, CAETA euthanasia, and Pet Nutrition Coaching. Dr. Karie draws on clinical practice, business ownership, nutrition expertise, and corporate communications to show veterinarians practical pathways into research, industry, policy, education, and advocacy.
Beyond the Clinic: The Many Lives of a Veterinary Degree
This presentation explores the wide range of career paths, roles, and impact areas available to veterinary graduates beyond traditional clinical practice. Through real-world examples and practical guidance, attendees will discover opportunities in research, public health, government policy, industry (pharmaceuticals, biotech, animal nutrition), shelter and wildlife medicine, education, entrepreneurship, nonprofit and advocacy work, and communications.
The session highlights transferable skills developed in veterinary training — critical thinking, diagnostics, animal and population health expertise, client communication, and systems thinking — and shows how to translate them into non-clinical careers.