Dr. Engels grew up in Buffalo, NY, and Texas. She moved to Connecticut in 2011. She grew up with various animals including dogs, cats, horses, guinea pigs, rabbits, birds, and hamsters. It was through the experiences with her personal animals and the time spent volunteering at animal shelters that she knew she wanted to be a veterinarian. She studied at the University of Connecticut where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science. She studied at Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine where she received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Dr. Engels joined the VCA Veterinary Specialist team in July 2023. Dr. Engels' professional interests include primary care and emergency care. In her free time she enjoys exercising, reading, spending time with family, and music.