She obtained her BS in Animal Science from the University of Illinois in 1994 and went on to complete her DVM at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 1998.

While in veterinary school, she enjoyed volunteering at the U of I Wildlife Ward, a totally student run wildlife rescue and rehabilitation clinic. She also completed an externship at The Animal Medical Center in Manhattan, NY.

She joined the the team at MBEAH in September 2000 working part time. In October 2004, she partnered with Dr. Poliakoff in purchasing the practice from Dr. Nye and Dr. Brown. She enjoys seeing exotic pets at both practices and has a particular interest in the areas of emergency and critical care medicine, dentistry and surgery.

In her spare time, Dr. Clarkson enjoys her 3 dogs and guinea pigs, traveling, gardening, reading and can often be found sampling some of Chicago’s restaurants and nightlife searching for the best sushi and the perfect chocolate martini.