Every day, an extraordinary team of veterinarians at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium works tirelessly to ensure the health and wellbeing of every animal in our care. This World Veterinary Day (April 25), we’re proud to shine a spotlight on three remarkable veterinarians: Dr. Karen, Dr. Cassidy, and Dr. Rachel. Their expertise, compassion, and dedication make a lasting difference for thousands of animals.
From routine wellness exams to advanced medical treatments, our veterinary team is constantly innovating and finding new ways to support animal health, enrich daily life, and ensure comfort for species of all shapes and sizes. Working with keepers, veterinary technicians, interns, and support staff, they bring together science, technology, and heart to provide exceptional care.
Veterinary technician Sara puts it best:
“Our veterinarians are true superheroes of the zoo! They care for every aspect of an individual’s health from birth to end of life and everything in between. They know the diseases, health concerns, preventative medicine, medications, and anatomy of almost 500 species housed at our facility that covers mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, invertebrates, and amphibians. On top of all that, they communicate all that knowledge and experience to a large number of people who help care for the animals. We are extremely lucky and grateful to have such passionate and caring veterinarians caring for our animals (and people too)!”
Meet the Team
Dr. Karen Wolf, MS, DVM, DACZM — Head Veterinarian
Dr. Wolf leads the veterinary team with deep expertise and a lifelong passion for wildlife care. Her journey has taken her from studying endangered black-footed ferrets in partnership with the Smithsonian National Zoo to completing advanced training in zoological medicine through internships and a residency at North Carolina State University.
Now a board-certified specialist in zoological medicine, Dr. Wolf brings both leadership and vision to the team. She’s fulfilled her dream of working as a full-time zoo veterinarian here in the Pacific Northwest, where she enjoys exploring the region’s natural beauty with her family and dogs.
Dr. Cassidy Soehnlein, DVM — Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Soehnlein’s path to zoo medicine began at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and led her across the country to the Pacific Northwest. After completing internships in small animal medicine and zoological medicine, she knew she had found the perfect fit.
Today, she cares for animals at both Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and its sister zoo, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, with enthusiasm and dedication. Outside of work, she embraces the region’s outdoor lifestyle and manages a small “zoo” of her own, including dogs, cats, and red-footed tortoises.
Dr. Rachel Long, DVM, MS, DACZM — Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Long brings a unique blend of research, clinical expertise, and passion for conservation. After earning her veterinary degree from The Ohio State University, she completed specialized training in zoological medicine through internships and a residency. She also earned a master’s degree focused on anesthesia techniques for freshwater mussels.
As a board-certified specialist in zoological medicine, she plays a key role in advancing animal care across a wide range of species. When she’s not at work, she enjoys exploring the Pacific Northwest and spending time with her family and their dog, Alli.