Latina In America Podcast

Dr. Dorothy De Dios Milner, Veterinarian: Mentorship, Persistence, and Pet Health

Episode Summary

In this episode, Dr. Dorothy De Dios Milner shares her inspiring journey into veterinary medicine, including the challenges, mentors, persistence, and support system that empowered her to build a successful career. She also gives practical tips for keeping pets healthy, happy, and thriving—perfect for pet parents, curious learners, and anyone interested in careers, perseverance, and achieving their goals.

Episode Notes

Join the conversation with Dr. Dorothy De Dios Milner, Veterinarian, as she shares her inspiring journey into veterinary medicine, including the challenges, mentors, persistence, and support system that empowered her to build a successful career. She also gives practical tips for keeping pets healthy, happy, and thriving—perfect for pet parents, curious learners, and anyone interested in careers, perseverance, and achieving their goals.

We Cover:

• Growing up between two cultures: How her upbringing shaped her perspective and curiosity.
• Finding her path: The steps she took from undergraduate studies in biology to choosing veterinary medicine.
• Navigating education: How she prepared for veterinary school, including gaining volunteer hours, clinical experience, and mentorship.
• Overcoming financial challenges: Scholarships, work, loans, and a strong support system that made her education possible.
• Clinical rotations: Insights from emergency medicine, surgery, shelter medicine, and more, plus how these experiences shaped her approach to care.
• Practical advice for pet parents: Tips on preventive care, noticing changes in pets, and planning for emergencies.
• Representation and mentorship: The importance of diversity in veterinary medicine and guidance for students exploring this career path.

Don't miss this engaging conversation on veterinary medicine, persistence in pursuing your dreams, and practical advice for pet care!

Connect with Dr. Dorothy:

Instagram: @drdorothy.vet.med

Episode Transcription

Episode Summary Transcript – Latina In America Podcast

Guest: Dr. Dorothy De Dios Milner, Veterinarian

In this episode of Latina in America, we welcome Dr. Dorothy De Dios Milner, a veterinarian who shares her inspiring journey into veterinary medicine and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Dr. Dorothy reflects on how her border-town upbringing shaped her curiosity, resilience, and passion for animal care.

She takes us through the long and sometimes challenging path to becoming a veterinarian, from undergraduate studies in biology, finding mentors, and navigating college, to accumulating clinical experience, overcoming financial hurdles, and persisting through setbacks. Dr. Dorothy highlights the critical role of scholarships, work, and a strong support system in achieving her career goals.

Listeners also get a behind-the-scenes look at what veterinary school and clinical rotations are really like, from emergency medicine and orthopedic surgery to shelter medicine and client communication. Dr. Dorothy shares practical advice for pet parents on preventive care, spotting early warning signs, and planning for pet emergencies, emphasizing that every pet—and pet parent—can access the right level of care.

The episode also touches on the importance of diversity and mentorship in veterinary medicine, inspiring students and aspiring veterinarians to explore opportunities, seek guidance, and follow their dreams. Whether you’re a pet parent, curious learner, or thinking about a future in veterinary medicine, this episode is packed with inspiration, actionable tips, and real-life insights