Dr. Sara Moss’s journey began on a Florida farm, where she grew up surrounded by animals and the healing practices of her mother, a holistic nurse practitioner. With a love for problem-solving and a passion for science, she pursued her undergraduate degree in cell and molecular biology before earning her Ph.D. in the Laboratory of Metabolic Medicine at the University of South Florida. It was during this time that she met our Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Shannon Kesl, who introduced her to the opportunity to merge her three deepest loves—science, animals, and holistic healing—here at VHA.
Sara had once considered leaving her Ph.D. program to pursue veterinary medicine, but when that path didn’t align, she never expected a future where her skills could be used in this way. “Working at a place where I can focus on pets instead of people, with a company that actually values a team-based and integrative approach, was a no-brainer,” she shares. Since joining VHA, Sara says the most rewarding part of her role is the support and camaraderie of the team: “Everyone has been so helpful in helping me adjust to the world of animal medicine.”
Outside of work, Sara’s creativity is boundless. From dancing and painting to baking and soap making, she pours her energy into handmade joy. Her coworkers might recognize her artistry through her spreadsheets, shared sticker bin, or occasional treats brought into the office.
She shares her home with a full, fabulous crew of animals: Floki, Loki, Baldr, and Fenrir (cats), Chumba and Siggy (dogs), and Brego, her beloved Dogue de Bordeaux.
To stay grounded amid the demands of veterinary work, Sara leans on daily phone calls with family and friends, moments of quiet reflection, and small acts of self-kindness. VHA supports her in this balance with cozy spaces to breathe, accessible coffee, and an environment that genuinely respects mental wellness.
Fueled by caffeine and chaos.
