This article was originally printed in the July/August 2026 issue of the California Veterinarian magazine.

Dr. Shari O’Neill serves on the CVMA’s Board of Governors, representing District IX (San Mateo, San Francisco, and Santa Clara Counties). If you are in Dr. O’Neill’s district, you may relay your thoughts to her at soneill@cvma.net.

Where do you currently work and what kind of veterinary medicine do you practice?

Shelter medicine at the San Francisco SPCA.

Where did you grow up, and what’s your favorite thing about that place?

I grew up in Kentucky. I love seeing the horse farms every time I fly into the Lexington airport!

Where did you graduate from?

I attended the University of Kentucky for undergrad and Auburn University for veterinary school.

How did you first become interested in veterinary medicine?

I have an early memory of our family Cocker Spaniel named Candy who developed diabetes. Our family couldn’t afford to treat her and I remember how upset my mother was when she made the decision to euthanize. I was too young to fully understand the medical or financial side of things, but the emotional piece definitely resonated with me and sparked my curiosity about the veterinary field.

What are your hobbies?

Tap dancing, baking, and trips to Disneyland.

What’s your favorite board game or video game?

My favorite board game is Settlers of Catan. My favorite video game is Animal Crossing.

If you had to eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Tacos.

Do you have any pets? If so, what are their names?

I do not have any pets currently. I said goodbye to my 16-year-old Border Terrier Peggy last December.

What’s your favorite television show?

My current favorite show is The Pitt.

What country or city do you most want to visit?

We took a family trip to Japan last summer, and I would love to go back. Looking forward to Italy this year!

What cause other than veterinary medicine are you passionate about?

Public health.

What area of veterinary medicine are you still interested in learning about?

I would love to better understand zoo and/or lab medicine. I was fortunate enough to visit a colleague in lab animal medicine, and I find naked mole rats fascinating!

What’s your favorite thing about being a veterinarian?

My favorite thing about being a veterinarian is making a difference in animals’ lives at their most vulnerable.

What’s your least favorite?

My least favorite thing is feeling underappreciated and unrecognized for shelter work, as it is often a misunderstood area of veterinary practice.

Why did you get involved in organized veterinary medicine?

I really enjoy being part of the “big picture” of the profession. When I was Chair of the Committee on Disaster and Emergency Issues at the American Veterinary Medical Association, I worked with some amazing veterinarians from a variety of backgrounds and came away with a better understanding of the challenges we all face. It is my hope that in being part of organized veterinary medicine, I have a voice in contributing to the future and legacy of the profession.

What do you want people to know about the CVMA and organized veterinary medicine?

Get involved in your local or state organizations! Participating connects you to your colleagues and informs the CVMA of what issues are important to our members. Supporting the CVMA ensures that the veterinary profession has a champion in matters of legislation and policy that will shape our practice both now and in the future.