Michelle Sandel, DVM

Shelly’s journey to becoming a veterinarian was a unique one in that it actually started with political science. After earning her BA in political science from Grinnell College, she enrolled in the University of Wisconsin’s PhD program in Soviet and Eastern European politics. However, with her love and passion for pets, she quickly realized that she needed to shift gears. Shortly thereafter, she earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Wisconsin, where she received the Easterday, B.C. award for top veterinary students.

She also received the Upjohn Award for veterinary students with the highest clinical proficiency. In April 2016, she opened Northfield Veterinary Hospital in Denver, after months of excitement and anticipation from the community.To stay current on the latest in veterinary medicine, Shelly has completed courses at various veterinary conferences, including the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Course topics included internal medicine, surgery, and ophthalmology.

Throughout the course of her career, she has come to love interacting with amazing clients and their “furry kids.” She also enjoys the stimulation of always learning new information and the many interesting experiences that are involved. One of her most memorable experiences was when she visited various Native American reservations to provide free spay and neuter clinics.

Shelly is married and has a son. She also has several “pet children,” including a labradoodle named Ajax, a cat named Arya, a gecko named Beowolf, a snake named Alleria, and two parakeets named Magic and Sapphire. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, reading, playing the piano, and scuba diving. She also serves as a board member of Peer Assistance Services, an organization that helps veterinarians who have trouble with substance abuse.