
Joyce Carter
Clinical Focus
With more than 24 years in companion animal medicine, Dr. Joyce Carter brings a wealth of experience and a particular passion for shelter medicine to Coastal Animal Clinic. Her work in shelter medicine has given her a special interest in population health, preventive care, infectious disease management, and improving the lives of animals who don't yet have a family of their own.Â
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Her path to veterinary medicine began with a little inspiration from home. Her father was a veterinarian himself before returning to school to become a psychiatrist, and his career helped spark her own desire to care for animals. Today, she brings that same sense of purpose to every patient she meets, combining evidence-based medicine with compassionate, individualized care. She believes that good veterinary care is about more than treating illness. It's about building trust with families, listening to their concerns, and helping their pets live healthier, happier lives.
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Dr. Joyce continues to expand her knowledge through ongoing education and stays current with advances in veterinary medicine, always looking for ways to provide the best care for the animals entrusted to her.
Home Life
When she's not at Coastal, you'll likely find her enjoying the outdoors with her three dogs: a Cocker Spaniel, a Chinese Crested, and a Toy Poodle/Papillon mix. She loves taking them to the park or beach, where apparently three dogs are considerably better company than three dogs who have been told it's time to go home.Â
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Her creative side comes out in the form of homemade candles and soaps, giving her plenty of opportunities to trade the exam room for something a little more hands-on and relaxing

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Washington State University
