Dr. Piper Gwyn Gauthier grew up in rural northeast Pennsylvania, where her love for animals and veterinary medicine took root. A lifelong learner with a wide range of passions, she earned dual Associate degrees in Biology and Culinary Arts from Northampton Community College, where she became active in student leadership. She went on to complete her Bachelor’s degree in Marine Sciences at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, followed by field research in the Philippines focusing on thresher shark conservation, ecotourism, and soft coral molecular biology.

Before earning her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Tennessee in 2024, Dr. Gauthier carved a unique path—working as an assistant pastry chef, certified PADI Divemaster, and aerialist. Some of her clinical experience includes externships at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, Chattanooga Zoo, and Georgia Aquarium, where she deepened her skills in zoo and aquatic medicine.

Dr. Gauthier is passionate about global and multicultural engagement and proudly serves as a liaison in the international veterinary community. Outside the clinic, she continues to train in circus arts, create artwork, and enjoy the outdoors with her two dogs around a campfire.

She is thrilled to bring her creativity, leadership, and dedication to the team at Midwest Exotic & Bird Hospital!