Dr. Kristen Dahlin was born and raised in Western Washington. Having grown up in a family of animal lovers with many beloved pets, she knew from a young age that she would want a career in animal care. She took a particular interest to non-traditional pets and exotics, and spent time working at a shelter for rabbits and rodents during high school.

Dr. Dahlin went to Washington State University for a Bachelor's degree in Animal Science and minor in Zoology. Throughout her undergraduate career, she spent extra curricular time getting experience with exotic species through volunteering with non-releasable raptors at WSU and a pre-veterinary internship in South Africa with game animals. Dr. Dahlin then pursued her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine through Washington State University, graduating in May of 2023. She enjoys working with dogs, cats, and exotic pet species, with a special interest in rabbit medicine. 

Dr. Dahlin was excited to move back to Western Washington following graduation from WSU. Outside of work, Dr. Dahlin enjoys spending time with her Holland Lop named Sunflower at home. She likes working on puzzles, reading, crafting, and playing tabletop games. She also enjoys spending time in nature, and brushing up on her native bird identification through bird watching.