A 1998 graduate of Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Mark Holland grew up on a farm in Bucyrus, Kansas.

"At some point while growing up I realized I didn't want to sit on a tractor for the rest of my career," he says. Dr. Holland knew he wanted to stay involved with the farming industry. "Veterinary Medicine seemed like a perfect opportunity. I had no idea the journey I was about to embark upon."

Dr. Holland was hired at Southwest Veterinary Hospital right out of veterinary school. Before then he gained experience through working at a mixed animal practice, a small animal emergency and referral center, and in the Rabies department of Kansas State University's Veterinary Diagnostics Laboratory.

His favorite part of being a veterinarian is in developing relationships with clients and working alongside others who share common goals. "The positive feedback and happy patients help drive us through our day," he says.

Dr. Holland is most interested in veterinary surgery and is a member of the American and California Veterinary Medical Associations and the Veterinary Information Network.

Outside of work, Dr. Holland is an active member of St. Francis Catholic Church and a father to two daughters, Olivia and Stella (who consistently make him proud). He has a Shih-Tzu named Mattie, a Poodle Mix named Agnes and another Poodle mix named Ernest. Dr. Holland enjoys outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, water sports, and skiing during the winter months.