This month, White Bear Animal Hospital is proud to celebrate a remarkable milestone: Dr. Gwen Zupancich’s 25th anniversary with our practice.
For 25 years, Dr. Zupancich has cared for the pets and families of White Bear Lake, building relationships that span generations and helping thousands of pets live healthier, happier lives. Her journey reflects not only the evolution of veterinary medicine but also the lasting impact of trust, compassion, and community.
From Veterinary Student to Practice Owner
Dr. Zupancich’s story with White Bear Animal Hospital began during her senior year of veterinary school when she completed a two-week externship at the hospital.
When she learned that one of the veterinarians would be moving on, she applied for the open position and was hired.
“I immediately loved the White Bear Lake community—wonderful clients who clearly cared so well for their pets.”
What began as an externship quickly became a career. Over the next 25 years, Dr. Zupancich would grow alongside the practice, care for generations of pets, raise her three sons, and eventually become a partial owner of White Bear Animal Hospital in January 2023.
Reflecting on her journey, she says:
“This place and this community are truly part of my family.”
A Profession That Has Evolved
When Dr. Zupancich joined White Bear Animal Hospital in 2001, veterinary medicine looked very different than it does today.
The hospital relied on paper charts, a Rolodex filled with client information, and a paper appointment calendar. X-rays had to be developed by hand, and dental radiographs were not yet part of routine veterinary care.
Over the past 25 years, she has witnessed tremendous advances in technology, diagnostics, and treatment options.
“Some of the biggest changes I’ve seen in veterinary medicine over the last 25 years are how much more we focus on cats—they used to be the forgotten house members, but now they come in regularly for preventive care and sick visits. Dental care has also become a major focus. We’ve had to learn oral surgery along the way, and tools like digital dental radiographs and high-speed drills now let us handle complicated procedures that simply weren’t possible when I started.”
These advancements have allowed veterinarians to diagnose conditions earlier, provide more effective treatments, and improve quality of life for countless pets.
What Has Never Changed
Despite all the technological advances, Dr. Zupancich believes the heart of veterinary medicine remains the same.
“What’s remained most important to me is the daily privilege of connecting with pets and their families—taking the time to listen, examine, diagnose, treat, and educate in those 30-minute appointments. That core relationship has never changed.”
Those relationships are a large part of what has kept her passionate about veterinary medicine throughout her career.
Caring for Generations of Pets and Families
One of the unique privileges of practicing in the same community for 25 years is the opportunity to share in the lives of both pets and their people.
Dr. Zupancich has cared for pets from their very first puppy or kitten visit through their senior years, and she has supported families through both joyful milestones and difficult goodbyes.
“I love the deep connections I’ve built with clients I’ve seen for many years. You walk with them through the full life cycle—from bringing in a new kitten or puppy for its first visit, to senior care, and sometimes the difficult goodbye. You also get to share in the excitement when they bring their next new pet to meet you.”
The relationships extend far beyond veterinary visits.
“I appreciate being a semi-regular part of their lives—marriages, new babies, additional pets, and supporting them through losses. These relationships make the work so meaningful.”
For many families, Dr. Zupancich has become a trusted partner in their pets’ care for decades.
Still Inspired After 25 Years
After 25 years in practice, Dr. Zupancich remains energized by the challenges and rewards of veterinary medicine.
“The daily challenge and variety of small animal medicine still energize me. Every day is different—new puzzles to solve, new families to connect with, and the constant opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of pets and the people who love them.”
Combined with the support of her colleagues and the loyalty of the White Bear Lake community, it is a profession she continues to feel grateful for every day.
A Message of Gratitude
As she celebrates this milestone anniversary, Dr. Zupancich has a simple message for the pets and families who have been part of her journey.
“I am so grateful for all the years I have been here to serve the veterinary needs of the White Bear Lake area. Thank you for trusting me with your beloved pets and for letting me be part of your families. It has been an honor and a joy.”
From all of us at White Bear Animal Hospital, thank you, Dr. Zupancich, for 25 years of compassionate care, dedication, leadership, and service to our community. We look forward to many more years of caring for pets and the people who love them together.