From Dog Lover to Veterinary Neurology Expert: Dr. Philip Cohen's Wild Journey

For Dr. Philip Cohen, veterinary medicine is more than a career—it’s a lifelong calling, driven by a passion that started when he was just a kid. Growing up surrounded by animals, especially dogs, he knew early on that becoming a veterinarian was his destiny. But little did he know, his path would lead him into the fascinating—and often challenging—world of veterinary neurology, where complex, life-altering cases await him every day.

A Lifelong Passion Fueled by Animals and Competition

Dr. Philip’s story begins in his childhood home, where his love for animals was fostered by his family and community. "I’ve always loved dogs, and being a veterinarian was the only thing I ever wanted to do," Dr. Philip recalls. That unshakable passion propelled him through his education and into a career dedicated to solving some of the toughest problems in veterinary medicine.

But what truly sets Dr. Philip apart was his competitive spirit. It was this drive that steered him toward neurology. "I love challenging cases," he says. "Neurology fit that better than any other specialty." In neurology, there’s no shortage of mysteries—spinal surgeries, seizures, and the unknowns that keep Dr. Philip on his toes. But these complexities are also what he finds most rewarding. He admits, "There are many cases we just don’t have answers for, which requires a lot of patience and a lot of heart."

Tough Choices, Unexpected Moves

The road to success wasn’t without its bumps. One of the hardest decisions Dr. Philip ever had to make was relocating from New Jersey to Connecticut to be closer to family. "I had built amazing relationships at the hospital in NJ, and we were really making progress," he reflects. "But life had other plans." Leaving behind his colleagues and a sense of stability was no easy feat, but the move ultimately brought him closer to his children and gave him the space to flourish professionally. While his first hospital in Connecticut didn’t work out, he found his true home at Central Hospital, where he continues to make an impact today.

Balancing High-Stakes Medicine with Personal Joy

After spending hours working through the intricate and often stressful cases of the day, Dr. Philip has a few go-to ways to unwind. "I love to work out and then watch a really dumb comedy show or movie," he says with a grin. The quirkier, the better. His favorite show? I Think You Should Leave, an absurd comedy that has become his ultimate stress reliever.

But fitness and comedy aren’t his only outlets. Dr. Philip, a former college pole vaulter and sprinter, is still very much an athlete at heart. "My favorite time of year is when I can play in my softball league," he shares. In winter, he switches to beach flag football, always competing with friends in a lighthearted way. "I can get a little too competitive," he laughs, "but I just love the game."

When he’s not on the field or cracking up at a comedy, Dr. Philip is cheering for his favorite sports teams—the Mets, Jets, and Knicks. His love for the games is more than just a pastime; it’s a way to disconnect, have fun, and remind himself of the importance of balance.

Family: The Root of His Drive

A big part of what drives Dr. Philip is his family. "I don’t think there is anyone I admire more than my dad," he says. Growing up, he watched his father work tirelessly to provide for their family, and it’s this dedication that Dr. Philip aspires to mirror. "His commitment to success and to being there for his family is something I strive for every day."

The State of Veterinary Medicine—and What Needs to Change

As a leader in the field, Dr. Philip has a clear vision for the future of veterinary medicine. One of the most pressing issues he sees is the rise of corporate takeovers in veterinary hospitals. "Every hospital is different, and we need to treat them as such," he argues. The one-size-fits-all approach from corporate management has created a disconnect between the needs of individual hospitals and the decision-makers behind them.

Another concern? The financial strain on pet owners, which only adds to the pressure veterinary professionals already face. Dr. Philip advocates strongly for pet insurance, believing it can make a huge difference in the decision-making process for both veterinarians and pet owners. "Pet insurance makes everything easier—both for the owners and for us," he says.

Finding Purpose Through Compassion

For Dr. Philip, veterinary neurology is more than just solving medical mysteries—it’s about finding purpose in his work. "Without purpose, life can feel dull or even lonely," he reflects. "Helping animals and their owners find solutions is what gives my life meaning."

It’s this deep sense of purpose that fuels his work and guides his approach to every case. But what truly makes Dr. Philip exceptional is his unwavering compassion. Neurological conditions in animals often come with uncertainty, and for both pets and their families, that can be overwhelming. "Without compassion, it would be impossible to specialize in this field," he says.

Dr. Philip’s ability to connect with his patients and their families, to show empathy during tough times, is what sets him apart. It’s clear that his dedication to animals is matched only by his dedication to people.

The Man Behind the Stethoscope

Dr. Philip is more than just a neurologist—he’s a compassionate advocate, a lifelong learner, and someone who knows how to live life outside the clinic. Whether it’s competing in sports, enjoying time with family, or catching up on his favorite shows, he knows the importance of balance.

As Dr. Philip continues to make waves in veterinary neurology, one thing is certain: his love for animals, his commitment to excellence, and his deep-rooted compassion will continue to guide him every step of the way. And for his patients and their owners, that’s the best kind of medicine.