Hello! I’m Dr. Shantavia Hayes, a small animal veterinarian with a deep passion for surgery—both orthopedic and soft tissue. I earned my DVM from Tuskegee University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 2021, where I first discovered my love for small animal surgery and set my sights on becoming a board-certified surgeon.

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After completing a rotating internship, I joined a small animal general practice that offered strong surgical mentorship. There, I gained extensive hands-on experience with routine, elective, and emergency procedures, refining my tissue-handling skills and building confidence in the OR under the guidance of senior clinicians.

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Currently, I serve as a clinical research fellow at Kansas City Canine Orthopedics, where I am immersed in advanced surgical techniques, minimally invasive procedures, and the medical management of orthopedic disease. This role has deepened my surgical expertise while fueling my commitment to improving quality of life for pets through innovative care.

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Outside of veterinary medicine, I enjoy gardening, traveling, and spending time with my family. My home is happily shared with my dog, Mr. Peanut, and my cats—Cashew, Beautiful Bob, and Mr. Beanz.

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I am excited to continue my journey by pursuing a small animal surgical residency, with the ultimate goal of advancing the field and providing exceptional surgical care to patients.