Welcome, Dr. Laurie Hess
Commentary05/31/24 By Merck Veterinary Manual

Welcome, Dr. Laurie Hess

We are delighted to announce the addition of Laurie Hess, DVM, as Editor-in-Chief of The Veterinary Manuals.

Dr. Hess is a renowned expert in avian medicine, one of approximately 100 board-certified avian specialists worldwide. She brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Manuals team. After obtaining her BA in biology from Yale University, she earned her veterinary degree from Tufts University. Dr. Hess further honed her expertise through a comprehensive 1-year internship and a rigorous 2-year residency in avian and exotic animal medicine and surgery at the prestigious Schwarzman Animal Medical Center in New York City.

Dr. Hess's contribution to avian medicine extends beyond her impressive educational background. She co-headed the Avian & Exotic Pet Service at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center for nearly a decade, and she subsequently established the Veterinary Center for Birds & Exotics in Westchester County, NY, in 2010. Her passion for the well-being of animals led her to serve as the Director of Pet Health & Nutrition for ZuPreem, a leading exotic animal food manufacturer, and later as Petco's Director of Veterinary Medicine, where she oversaw the care of animals at more than 1,500 stores nationwide.

As a testament to her expertise, Dr. Hess has appeared as an exotic pet expert on numerous television and radio shows. She also authored "Unlikely Companions: The Adventures of an Exotic Animal Doctor," a captivating memoir recounting her unique experiences as an exotic animal veterinarian. Dr. Hess remains an active member of esteemed professional associations, including the Association of Avian Veterinarians, the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians, and the Association of Reptile & Amphibian Veterinarians.

Outside of work, Dr. Hess finds joy in spending time with her loved ones, including her husband, two adult sons, and a diverse array of pets. Her furry and feathered family members include two cats, a Pionus parrot, a caique parrot, a Maremma sheepdog, four Nigerian dwarf goats, and even ten assorted chickens.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Laurie Hess to the Manuals team. With her exceptional expertise and dedication, we are confident that under her leadership, The Veterinary Manuals will continue to provide invaluable resources and knowledge to veterinary professionals worldwide.

Dr. Hess with a parrot