Meet Natasha George: The Shelter Medicine Student Fighting for Every Second Chance
University of Arizona DVM student Natasha George is proving that you can chase two degrees, advocate for underserved communities, and still lead with heart
Some veterinary students know exactly where they're headed from day one. Natasha George, or Nat, as her friends call her, is one of them. Currently juggling her DVM at the University of Arizona with a Master's in Shelter Medicine from the University of Florida (graduating this May), she's the kind of future veterinarian who doesn't just talk about making a difference—she's already doing it.
Two Degrees, One Mission
Pursuing dual degrees isn't for the faint of heart, but for Nat, it's non-negotiable. Her master's project? Increasing the adoptability of senior dogs in shelters. While some might see this as just academic research, Nat sees it for what it really is: a roadmap to giving overlooked animals the homes they deserve.
"I'm examining the logistics, barriers, and practical strategies that can better support senior pets and the people who care for them," she explains. It's the kind of work that doesn't make headlines but changes lives—both human and animal.
Her approach is rooted in One Health, focusing on the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental well-being. She's witnessed firsthand how these systems influence one another, especially in underserved communities, and it's shaped everything about how she wants to practice medicine.
The Dogs Who Started It All
At home, Nat shares her life with two Shih Tzus who keep her grounded: George Michael (yes, named after the iconic singer) and Gargamel (named after The Smurfs villain, though Nat insists he's "the sweetest little bean you'll ever meet"). They're more than pets—they're daily reminders of why compassionate care matters.
But the real inspiration? That came from watching her mother.
"Growing up, she rescued stray animals, nursed them back to health, and found them loving homes," Nat shares. "She is the reason I fostered so many animals and why I believe so deeply in giving them a second chance."
Her mother's work ethic and resilience continue to drive Nat forward, even when the path gets challenging. "No matter what challenges or criticism she faces, she rises and keeps going. She has always been my role model."
Community Care Without the Judgment
Nat stays actively involved in outreach and service, particularly through shelter medicine work. Whether she's supporting unhoused individuals and their pets, coordinating donations, or participating in community education efforts, her philosophy is simple: meet people and animals where they are, and provide care with dignity and empathy.
It's an approach the veterinary field desperately needs more of.
"I want to see more kindness in this field," she says. "We are capable of incredible things when we work together, yet we can create unnecessary chaos when we turn against one another."
Her message to fellow students hits home: "Everyone is carrying something unseen. We only see the cover of the book, never the full story. By choosing compassion, uplifting one another, and supporting our community, we create a healthier profession."
Getting Real About Money
When asked about the biggest problem facing veterinary medicine today, Nat doesn't sugarcoat it: finances.
"New graduates want a healthy work–life balance, yet many are burdened with over $200,000 in student loans," she points out. But instead of just complaining about the problem, she's sharing solutions. She highlights programs like:
The ASPCA Veterinary Scholars Program (up to $33,333/year, $100k total—but you need to apply by second year)
Arizona Veterinary Loan Assistance Program (up to $100k forgiveness for four years of full-time work in Arizona for post-2023 graduates)
Public Service Loan Forgiveness after ten years
Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program (up to $40k/year)
"Even with these opportunities, the financial strain is real," she acknowledges. "That's why I believe in sharing resources and supporting colleagues. We need each other in this profession."
The Five-Year Plan
Where does Nat see herself in five years? Traveling the world as a shelter veterinarian, providing high-volume, high-quality spay and neuter care to communities that lack access to veterinary services.
She's particularly excited about returning to Spain, helping animals there while reconnecting with her family and honoring her great aunt's memory. It's a vision that perfectly captures who she is: someone who sees her heritage, her profession, and her purpose as deeply interconnected.
Advice Worth Taking
If Nat could talk to her younger self, here's what she'd say:
"You will reach the goals you dream about. It's more than okay to be different, and it's okay to be shy—those parts of you will become strengths. When others recognize your potential, you will grow, flourish, and step into who you're meant to be."
And then, the part that hits hardest: "Never let anyone else define your path. This is your story, and no one else gets to write your narrative. You are strong, you are loved, you are powerful, and your light is yours. Don't let anyone dim it."
For a profession that can sometimes feel competitive and cutthroat, Nat George is proof that leading with heart isn't weakness—it's the whole point.
