Why These Young Veterinarians Are Taking Over the Industry (and Crushing It)
Veterinary medicine is undergoing a transformation—and it’s being driven by the newest generation of veterinarians. These young professionals are bold, tech-savvy, and unapologetically passionate about creating a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future for animals, clients, and the profession itself.
Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all pet care and rigid hierarchies in veterinary hospitals. Today’s up-and-coming veterinarians are rewriting the rules, embracing new models of care, advocating for wellness and diversity, and using digital platforms to amplify their voices.
Changing the Way Vet Med Looks—and Feels
Over the past five years, the profession has shifted in noticeable ways:
Work-Life Balance Matters: New vets are prioritizing mental wellness and boundaries—challenging outdated expectations of burnout as a badge of honor.
Technology is a Tool, Not a Threat: From telemedicine to AI-assisted diagnostics, younger vets are early adopters, not skeptics.
Representation is Power: A growing number of young veterinarians are stepping into leadership and mentorship roles to champion equity and inclusion.
Communication is Modern: Gen Z and millennial vets are engaging clients through TikTok, Instagram, podcasts, and virtual consults—meeting pet parents where they are.
Meet the Rising Stars of Vet Candy
Vet Candy’s Rising Stars program has spotlighted some of the most inspiring young leaders shaking up the field. Here are just a few:
🔹 Millie Mullings, aka “Diva Vet” – A first-year vet student at Ross University, Millie is using her platform to celebrate culture, confidence, and inclusion in vet med. As a student leader in SNABV and SAVMA, she’s bridging gaps between animals and underrepresented communities.
🔹 Amanda Mills – A Purdue student passionate about zoo and emergency medicine, Amanda is vocal about increasing Black female representation in the field. She’s a force for change, helping others see that veterinary medicine is for everyone.
🔹 Hiba Ali – This LSU vet student is breaking barriers as a Pakistani Muslim woman pursuing a future in wildlife and conservation medicine. Hiba is determined to be the representation she once needed—leading with compassion, curiosity, and purpose.
🔹 Casey Lavender – After overcoming rejection and setbacks, Casey is now heading to Colorado State University for a rotating internship in small animal medicine. His journey is a powerful reminder that resilience and grit pave the way to success.
🔹 Dasia Harris – A second-year vet student at NC State, Dasia combines military discipline with community compassion. She’s active on social media, promoting inclusion and making veterinary careers more visible and accessible for young people of color.
Why This Generation Matters
Younger veterinarians are not just the future—they’re the present. They’re leading conversations about sustainability, public health, and One Health. They’re reshaping how care is delivered and how veterinary professionals are treated within the industry. And most importantly, they’re showing up authentically—with purpose, personality, and heart.
Whether it’s through advocacy, education, entrepreneurship, or storytelling, young vets are taking up space—and making the profession better for everyone.
At Vet Candy, we’re proud to support and elevate these trailblazers through our Rising Stars program and beyond. Because when you invest in the future, the entire profession thrives.
