Co-Owner and Veterinarian
Hi, I’m Dr. Su-Chin Dean-Griffith. I'm a veterinarian and co-owner of the Pet Care Center at Luna Park in West Seattle!
What is your educational background?
I graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in zoology. After that, I worked as a research assistant in the Arctic, studying Arctic songbird breeding. During that time, I also worked at a veterinary hospital as a veterinary assistant, actually, a local hospital called Green Lake Animal Hospital, where I learned what veterinary medicine was all about.
Why did you choose to become a veterinarian?
Well, I chose this profession for the same reason that almost all of us chose this profession: because we love animals, and I am passionate about animals.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of this job is the relationships I develop with the clients and getting to know them, their families, and their animals. Learning about their history, what works for them, and what doesn't.
How long have you been a co-owner of your practice?
Dr. Griffith and I have owned the practice since 2009, and since then, we've developed many long-term relationships with clients who are really important to me.
What are your personal hobbies and interests?
My personal hobbies and interests involve anything having to do with nature, the outdoors. I do also dabble in art.
Can you tell us about your veterinary school experience?
I went to Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, so I'm a proud Coug. I attended from the beginning of the fall of 1997 and graduated in the spring of 2001. While I was in veterinary school, I had a special interest in exotic animals, particularly birds, so I tracked an exotic track, and that was my focus.
Did you have any special experiences during your veterinary training?
During my senior year in veterinary school, I was able to spend a year in Sitka, Alaska, doing eagle rehabilitation. That was pretty special to me. I did an externship at the National Zoo studying hormones and reproduction. During my senior year, I was fortunate to do a month-long externship with Dr. Douglas Mader. He is a famous reptile veterinarian, so it was quite a privilege for me!
What was your career path after veterinary school?
During my stay there, he offered me a full-time position post-graduate, so I went to live at the Florida Keys for a year. After that, Dr. Griffith and I got married, so we then moved up to Alaska until we decided to have a family and move closer to home in Seattle.
Is there anything you are particularly proud of at your practice?
I'm really proud that we were able to work really hard to get Pet Care Center feline-friendly certified. I'm a member of the Feline VMA, or Veterinary Medical Association, and we were able to get certification for the practice. We take great pride in making sure that all new hires understand what being feline-friendly is and how to ensure that all the kitties that come here have a relaxing time as much as they can.
We would love to meet you and your pet! Give us a call at (206) 935-3600 to schedule an appointment and join the Pet Care Center family.