Associate veterinarian Dr. Kristina Love joined the team at Southwest Veterinary Hospital in April of 2016. A Bakersfield native, Dr. Love has a lifelong passion for animals and was fascinated by science, physiology and medicine as an undergraduate.

She began her post-high school education at California State University, Bakersfield before transferring to Washington State University, where she earned both her undergraduate degree in Pre-Veterinary Medicine and her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Love’s professional interests include dermatology, dentistry, internal medicine and senior pet care.

"As our pets are living longer due to advances in veterinary preventive care and nutrition, I find it rewarding to have the ability to create a better quality of life that allows elderly pets to thrive rather than just survive," says Dr. Love. "When pet parents enthusiastically report that the increased activity of their senior pet is because of the treatments I offer, it is very satisfying."

At home Dr. Love has a Chihuahua named Lizzy. When not at work she enjoys gardening and landscaping her yard, taking on home improvement projects, staying fit, traveling, reading, thrift shopping, golfing and spending time with her daughter.