Dr. Buerkle grew up in Charleston SC, but in the course of pursuing a lifelong passion for science and biology has also lived in Hartsville SC, Raleigh NC, Perth (Western) Australia, Athens GA and outside Chicago IL. Her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine was completed at the University of Georgia.  She spent a year at VCA Arboretum View Animal Hospital in Illinois completing advanced training in a small animal internship.  Dr. Buerkle returned to her home state to join the VCA Palmetto Animal Hospital family in July 2014.

Dr. Buerkle has a wide variety of interests within the field of veterinary medicine, but is especially passionate about preventative care and internal medicine. She also has a fascination with exotic animal medicine including care of reptiles and "pocket pets."

Her roommates include a snuggle-bug of a Boston Terrier named Rex, a naughty but charismatic shelter mix named Juno, and a shy Kenyan sand boa named Basil.  When not in the clinic, she enjoys combing the beach while watching shorebirds, cuddling with Rex (Basil isn't much of a snuggler), exploring new places, visiting breweries with her husband, and trying her hand at cooking.