Dr. Bethany Summers has been caring for pets and supporting families at VCA Blairstown Animal Hospital since 2004. Having lived in the local community with her family and pets for more than 35 years, she is privileged to partner with pet owners throughout Blairstown, New Jersey, and the surrounding Warren County communities to provide thoughtful, personalized veterinary care rooted in compassion and understanding. She believes the best medicine begins by understanding not only a pet's medical needs but also the people who love them. As medical director, Dr. Summers works alongside the hospital's veterinary team to foster a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and medical excellence, helping ensure every patient benefits from the highest standard of care.
Dr. Summers earned her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Cook College/Rutgers University before receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1990. She has special interests in behavior and exotic animal medicine and is passionate about continually expanding her knowledge to better serve both patients and clients. She is also AVMA Certified in Workplace Wellbeing, reflecting her belief that caring for pets also means supporting the people who care for them.
"Every family has a story, and every pet has unique needs. Taking the time to understand both is where exceptional care begins."
Whether she is helping a family navigate a behavioral concern, caring for an exotic companion, or mentoring fellow veterinarians, Dr. Summers believes the strongest outcomes come from active listening, teamwork, and a commitment to lifelong learning. She embraces evidence-based medicine and believes every patient benefits when experienced professionals learn from one another and work together toward the best possible outcome. As a runner, triathlete, and former figure competitor, she understands the value of dedication and hard work. She encourages the entire team to grow their skills and help one another provide the excellent care that has been the cornerstone of the practice for more than 60 years. Her approach reflects VCA Blairstown Animal Hospital's dedication to personalized, relationship-centered veterinary care.
One of the things Dr. Summers values most about veterinary medicine is that it never stands still. Every patient presents an opportunity to learn, grow, and further refine the care she provides to pets and their families. She believes strong leadership means creating an environment where both clients and team members feel supported, respected, and confident because exceptional care is built by people who never stop learning.
"Every new patient teaches us something. Continuing to learn isn't just part of being a veterinarian. It's how we provide the very best care for every pet and every family we serve."
Dr. Summers is proud to serve the pets and families of Blairstown, Sparta, Newton, Hackettstown, Belvidere, and the surrounding Warren County communities. She looks forward to continuing VCA Blairstown Animal Hospital's long tradition of trusted, personalized veterinary care while helping advance the quality of care that has made the hospital a trusted part of the community for generations.
Interested in learning more about how we support your pet’s care? Visit our Services page or schedule an appointment.
