Dr. Zachary Osterholz is the newest member of the VCA Dakota Ridge medical team. Originally from the mid-west, Dr. O received his Undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame in 2015 and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Illinois in 2019.
Dr. O didn't always know he wanted to be a veterinarian. Before applying to veterinary school he strongly considered a career in research. While an undergraduate, Dr. O had the opportunity to conduct ecological research in some of the most incredible places on earth ranging from the Serengeti of Tanzania to the arctic tundra of Alaska. This created in him a love for the natural world and animals. It was not until he discovered his love of animal medicine and surgery, when working in a local veterinary clinic that he began to pursue a career as a veterinarian. Dr. Osterholz is particularly interested in small animal surgery, dentistry, and ophthalmology.
Following graduation, Dr. O moved to Colorado and has been practicing at a small animal hospital in Aurora the past three years. He recently moved to the Littleton area with his wife, Ali. Together they have a 50lb rescued black lab mix named Frank, and grey domestic shorthair cat, Noona. When not working to care for animals, Dr. O makes it a priority to enjoy the immense diversity of outdoor recreational opportunities the Front Range has to offer including kayaking, back packing, and climbing. He loves to engage in the unmatched Colorado microbrewery scene and get to as many concerts at Colorado's amazing outdoor venues as possible. At home you're most likely to find him in his woodshop making progress on his latest furniture build.
Dr. O hopes to advance the hospital mission by bringing enthusiasm and compassion to his work every day. He knows how incredibly privileged he is to have coworkers and clients that are committed to providing the highest quality of animal care possible in a comfortable family environment. Dr. O is extremely excited to meet all the amazing clients and patients at VCA Dakota Ridge.
