Kelsey Pedersen, MSc, MVB (she/her), is a veterinarian at VCA Sacramento Veterinary Referral Center. She earned her undergraduate degree in Pre-Veterinary Science from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2017 before completing a Master of Science in Animal Behavior and Welfare at Queen's University Belfast in the United Kingdom. She went on to earn her veterinary degree from University College Dublin in Ireland in 2025.
Originally from Sacramento, California, Dr. Pedersen took a unique path to veterinary medicine. Her interest in animal behavior grew while raising guide dog puppies during college, leading her to pursue a master's degree in animal behavior and welfare before attending veterinary school. Along the way, she worked as a veterinary assistant, conducted behavioral research with lemurs at Belfast Zoo, and gained hands-on experience with farm animals while studying in Ireland. These experiences helped shape her well-rounded approach to veterinary medicine and sparked her interest in emergency care, where she enjoys the variety and challenge that each day brings.
Outside of work, Dr. Pedersen enjoys staying active through strength training, swimming, and paddle boarding. She also loves trying new restaurants and spending time with friends and family. At home, she shares her life with Charlie, her sweet mixed-breed dog who is always ready to cuddle, and Hercules, her sassy tortoise whose favorite treat is hibiscus flowers.
