For us, best-in-class pet healthcare isn’t just for our pets, it’s for our people too. That means embodying a culture of care—from the start of the day to when we head out for the night—and taking any chance to show how amazing our team is.

Before you take a cat nap or go on a run with your furry best friend, take five minutes to get to know one of our favorite team members: Dr. Adam Chung, Parker & Ace's Lead Veterinarian.
‍

Q&A with Dr. Adam Chung

‍

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A VETERINARIAN?

I really enjoyed science and also felt sad when I saw any creature—whether bug or animal— suffering.  When my family dog got injured when I was in elementary school, I felt helpless and doubled down on my desire to become a veterinarian. It has been a privilege to serve in the capacity that I have been able to. 

‍

DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS?

A brown tabby domestic shorthaired cat named Zed. He's 13 years old and constantly tells me to stop working!

‍

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE DOG BREED?

I like them all! Any willing to give kisses and get pets! 

‍

WHAT IS THE FUNNIEST DOG NAME YOU'VE ENCOUNTERED?

A chihuahua mix named Biggie Smalls.

‍

WHAT IS THE FUNNIEST CAT NAME YOU'VE ENCOUNTERED?

Thumbelina - she had extra “thumbs.” 

‍

WHAT IS THE NUMBER ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE NEW PET OWNERS? 

Focus on socializing them with unknown people and pets early on, as this can have a dramatic effect on their perception as they age. It can be much harder to change their behavior once they have reached the 1-2 year mark. It is important to maintain consistency of these habits in their young adult years as well, which can help decrease the likelihood of anxiety and fear-related unwanted behaviors later on. 

‍

WHAT ARE SOME PRODUCTS YOU RECOMMEND FOR KEEPING PETS HEALTHY?

Common products I like to recommend include products that help fight plaque accumulation such as dental toys and treats, as dental disease is very common among pets. However, I warn owners to avoid providing hard objects to chew on, which can make them prone to tooth fractures. Environmental enrichment is one of the key factors in reducing stress at home; additional fun toys and puzzles are great examples of this. 

‍

HOW CAN YOU HELP YOUR PET GET TO A HEALTHY WEIGHT?

The first thing that people often overlook is reducing or eliminating table scraps/treats. Some more helpful habits include increasing activity, avoiding free feeding, and feeding at regular intervals in order to help promote a healthy weight. 

‍

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT BEING A VET? 

Being able to diagnose and treat many different conditions and helping pets live their best lives. There is little in life that is more rewarding than playing an active role in a pet’s recovery and wellbeing.  

‍

WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO DOING AT PARKER & ACE?

Practicing preventive medicine, being available for your pet's urgent needs, and promoting minimally invasive procedures. 

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍