After spending three years at NVA’s Alta Animal Hospital in Idaho, Dr. Taylor Ellis and her husband relocated to the Salt Lake City/Park City area, where she's now bringing her expertise in dentistry, ultrasound, dermatology, and urgent care to NVA’s White Pine Veterinary Clinic.

Her journey highlights how our internal mobility opportunities empower veterinarians to pursue both personal and professional growth without starting over.

Here's how she navigated her transition and what she's learned along the way.

1. Tell us about your career journey.

My career in veterinary medicine started with a childhood love of animals, but it truly took shape when I enrolled in an animal pathology course at West Virginia University with Dr. George Seiler. He welcomed me into his companion animal practice to shadow, and from that moment, I knew this was my path. I earned my bachelor's degree in Animal Science & Nutrition with a minor in Equine Science, then attended veterinary school at Virginia Tech, where I tracked small animal medicine. Over the years, my professional interests have continued to evolve and include dentistry, ultrasound, dermatology, and urgent care.

2. How has NVA supported your growth and development as a DVM?

NVA’s Mentorship Program played a major role in my development as a new DVM. The weekly lectures, discussions, and diverse topics — from medicine to communication and wellness — were invaluable. The mentorship conference was especially meaningful, giving me the chance to connect with other first-year doctors at that time and feel supported during that transition.

3. How did NVA's internal mobility opportunities support you and your career?

NVA's internal mobility opportunities gave me the flexibility to explore roles that aligned with my personal and professional goals. Having the ability to visit different clinics and learn about their unique cultures made the transition thoughtful and intentional. The tailored relocation support—whether as a one-time bonus or monthly stipend—made a big difference in helping my family transition comfortably to a new city.

4. What did you learn at Alta Animal Hospital that you're bringing with you to White Pine Veterinary Clinic?

One of the biggest lessons I’m bringing from Alta is the value of community. I learned how impactful it is to take the time to build genuine relationships with teammates and pet parents alike. Those connections made my work deeply rewarding, and I look forward to bringing that same mindset to White Pine.

5. What advice would you give to other veterinarians considering internal moves within NVA?

My advice is to be proactive and curious. Take the time to explore the areas or clinics that align with your professional goals, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your AMRO early in the process — they’re a great resource. For me, the transition was smooth because I communicated openly, planned site visits, and stayed focused on what mattered most in my work. One of the things I love about NVA is that every clinic has its own personality, which makes exploring internal opportunities fun. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to advocate for what you need to grow.

6. What are you most looking forward to with NVA in the future?

What I’m most looking forward to is exploring NVA’s new PetOne Veterinary Training Center. Creating a space where veterinarians, technicians, and other medical team members can learn and grow together is such a meaningful investment in our profession. I’m excited for the hands-on training opportunities and the chance to continue improving the medicine we provide.

More about Dr. Taylor Ellis:

Dr. Ellis is a small animal veterinarian with three years of experience in general practice. A 2022 graduate of Virginia Tech, her love for animals, the human-animal bond and an interest in science is what drew her into the veterinary profession. Professional interests include urgent care, preventative medicine, dermatology, and dentistry. Dr. Ellis has also enjoyed working at the oldest dog sled race in the lower 48 in Idaho! Outside of work, you can find Dr. Ellis exploring the outdoors, enjoying a local brewery or at a concert. She and her husband have two dogs, Twiggy the Great Dane and Steve the Chihuahua, as well as a cat named Arty, who are all cherished members of their family.