Dr. Welch grew up in San Diego and graduated from Whitworth College with degrees in English and Sociology. She taught elementary school in northern California for 15 years.

She attended UC Davis, receiving an Animal Science degree in preparation for her veterinary degree (also from UC Davis). Dr. Welch completed a rotating internship at Veterinary Medical and Surgery Group in Ventura prior to her current position at VCA Noah's Ark.

She enjoys spending time with her large extended family, collecting Nobel Prize winning literature, traveling, and watching tennis.

She currently has 2 amazing cats, Otis and Harvey.