Dr. Sara Ritzie is a small animal veterinarian whose career spans clinical practice, industry leadership, and academic training. She spent more than a decade working within the pet nutrition industry, where she developed expertise in clinical nutrition, scientific communication, and the design and evaluation of education and training initiatives that support veterinary teams.

Motivated by a desire to advance accessible, community-centered veterinary care, Sara returned to academia and is completing her DVSc in Community Medicine at the University of Guelph. Her research examines Spectrum of Care and Contextualized Care, investigating how shared decision-making and clear, compassionate communication improve client experience and strengthen clinician–client relationships to support practical, equitable approaches to veterinary care. She is committed to developing meaningful, sustainable solutions that enhance the well-being of animals, their caregivers, and the veterinary teams who serve them. A graduate of the Homeward Bound Women in STEMM leadership program, Sara is committed to fostering compassionate, purpose-driven leadership across the profession.

Sara lives in Puslinch, Ontario on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation of the Anishinaabek Peoples with her husband, their three dogs, and a cat who is convinced he’s one of them. Outside of work, Sara keeps bees, plays guitar, and (much to her own surprise) recently completed her first ultramarathon.