Dr. Irene Takata joined VCA Bakersfield Animal Hospital in 2005. She earned her bachelor's degree in Biological Science from the University of Southern California and her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University.

"It is satisfying to educate pet owners and treat pets using my veterinary training and experience," she says. "I am happy when a critically ill animal is treated, recovers and goes home."

Dr. Takata belongs to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the California Veterinary Medical Association, the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society, and the American Animal Hospital Association. Her professional interests include surgery and emergency medicine. She and her husband John, a physician, have three children: Jennifer, Jonathan, and Jamie. Outside of work, she enjoys travel and movies. The family cares for two dogs, Jeffery and Jake.