Meet the veterinarians
About Dr. Taylor Locklear
I grew up in North Carolina, and I’m a member of the Lumbee indigenous tribe. Like so many in the veterinary field, I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a veterinarian. My patients of interest, however, weren't so traditional—I wanted to care for every patient imaginable, whether they were furry, scaly, feathered, or hooved!
I focused on zoo medicine in vet school at North Carolina State University and after graduating in 2020, I spent a year in large animal medicine at the University of Tennessee, followed by an exotics specialty internship at Colorado State. Although I learned a lot during these internships, I fell in love with Colorado. I wasn't ready to leave to pursue the zoo residency I had planned for, so I moved from Fort Collins to Denver to work in small animal general practice.
During all of these experiences, I’ve had a strong interest in end-of-life care. I always felt that this was such an incredibly unique and special part of veterinary medicine, a belief that was reinforced by my mother's experiences as a hospice nurse in human medicine.
My interest in end-of-life care was solidified during the loss of my heart dog, Roxy. Roxy was my closest companion through college and my post-graduate experiences. When she began to struggle with cognitive decline, I was able to give her a personalized, peaceful transition. This experience clarified for me that I should be in a line of work that allows me to guide my patients through their transitions with peace, patience, and compassion. Although I miss Roxy greatly, I hope that my own grief journey will help me to support my clients with empathy and gentleness.
Outside of work, my fiancé and I care for a menagerie of animals, including a Sphynx cat (Zuzu), an assortment of lizards, and a pair of guinea pigs (Cookie and Butter). I also have several dozen tropical plants.
Pronouns: He/Him
About Dr. Kaitlin Dozier
Unlike many of my colleagues, I came to veterinary medicine through a slightly less traditional route. Growing up in rural Kansas, I dreamt of opening a non-profit shelter for homeless pets, but I was absolutely convinced that I wouldn’t be able to handle the medical aspects of such a facility. Then, at 18 years of age I took a rather random job as a kennel technician at a local veterinary clinic, and I was instantly hooked. The satisfaction of improving an animal’s quality of life far outweighed my fears that they were suddenly inconsequential, and I finally knew what I wanted to be when I grew up.
During my veterinary studies at Colorado State University, I was a member of the pet hospice club and gained invaluable experience in how to help both owners and their pets through some of the most difficult life stages. Around the same time, I came home for Christmas vacation and found that it was time to help my uncle and grandmother through the loss of their beloved Labrador, Chance. Our local veterinarian was able to visit the farm for this last appointment, and Chance’s final moments were spent out in the sun, in his yard, on his blanket, and surrounded by everyone who loved him. Through the grief, the encompassing sense of relief, love, and family bonding is what I carry with me to this day.
After graduating from the veterinary program at Colorado State University, I worked in a variety of medical settings; from low-income clinics to shelters to general practice, one thing remained constant - I've always loved geriatric medicine. It is an honor to help make a beloved pet’s last years and end of life as peaceful, joyful, and pain-free as possible. Ultimately, I've found a career in my passion and understand the privilege, trust, and vulnerability that comes with preserving the human animal bond during these final moments.
About Dr. Sean Leffert
I am a native of Golden, Colorado and have always been a dog person—although cats are great too! While attending college at Regis University in Denver, I got my start in veterinary medicine by volunteering in the surgery department at a local animal shelter. Working with dogs is rewarding in so many ways, and I was inspired by the level of trust dogs place in those who care for them—even in new and stressful environments. My next step was Kansas State’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
After spending my first post-graduate year pursuing animal welfare advocacy and overseeing livestock euthanasia in a public health position in the Pacific Northwest, I transitioned to canine rehabilitation work, directing medical care at a canine rehabilitation practice. In this role I was able to work closely with dogs and return to my home state. Working with dogs and cats—especially geriatric pets—to improve their mobility and quality of life was a true privilege. Caring for companion animals becomes much more demanding toward the end of life, and I have found that family members of all species are capable of providing exceptional care to their pets.
I have worked alongside a number of physical therapists, veterinarians, and veterinary technicians in the field of rehabilitation, and have greatly enjoyed the collaborative nature of those relationships. I am excited to now be part of a team of caring veterinarians and hospice professionals to focus on caring for elderly companion animals. I am also grateful to collaborate with amazing clients as some of the most important decisions are made for their precious dogs and cats. I am honored by the opportunity to assist in ensuring comfort and peace to beloved pets.
In my free time, I enjoy the outdoors, including playing racquet sports, losing to my older brother in golf, and getting beaten in basketball by my younger brother.
About Dr. Robbie Lawless
My father was in the military, so we moved every two to three years. We lived as far east as Maine and as far west as Hawaii. I loved the experiences I gained, and moving around ultimately led me to Colorado, which is my absolute favorite state.
I was one of those 5-year-olds who latched on to wanting to become a veterinarian and never let go. The profession fit my desire to keep regular company with creatures I adored while fulfilling the drive to constantly learn and solve problems.
I earned an associate’s degree from York College in Nebraska, and then transferred to the University of Oklahoma for my bachelors degree. I earned my doctorate degree from Oklahoma State University.
I found my niche in general practice 20 years ago. It is fulfilling and empowering to walk alongside pet owners from the first days of puppyhood to the rainbow bridge. I enjoy helping them understand what is going on at different life stages so they can make the best decisions about how to care for their pet. I also love general soft tissue and oral surgery. Adding a dedicated time for hospice and compassionate euthanasia will allow me to more completely provide care for the full life of the pet.
When I was a teenager, my beloved dog Petey was euthanized without our family present. Circumstances dictated that we weren't able to be with him and it tore up my heart. I would like every pet who is facing their last moments to be in a loving and comfortable environment surrounded by the people they love. I see compassionate euthanasia as a mercy for pets who are facing illness or decline, and their families. It is very fulfilling to me to provide circumstances where owners can safely grieve and provide the most gentle release from this life for their pets.
I love to read and hike. Devouring a good book in a few days time or conquering a trail are both rejuvenating and invigorating to me in their own ways.
About Dr. Hector Gutierrez
I am from the small Central Illinois town of Pontiac, where I had a small dog growing up. I have wanted to be a veterinarian since childhood, but I became sidetracked in the insurance industry for ten years. I spent those years handling disaster claims and helping people during some of the worst times of their lives. I learned that I really enjoyed being there when I was needed most, and eventually I knew that I was ready to pursue my old dream. I was motivated to give my attention to providing the best care to our pet families.
I attended the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana for my undergraduate degree in economics and finance, and then years later for my veterinary degree. During veterinary school, I learned about the roles veterinarians play in the U.S. Army, caring for military working dogs, assisting with animal care overseas, and ensuring public health by protecting our troops’ food supplies. I joined the Army for six years after graduating. After that, I worked multiple jobs, from public health to small animal practice—where I really enjoyed talking with clients and helping them get the most out of their relationships with their pets.
I’ve had six dogs—mostly huskies—and two cats over the years, and my 14-year-old dog, Ringo, is my only current pet. I know personally how hard it is to lose a pet, and what a tough decision it can be at the end. And after working in multiple practices in Illinois, Canada, and Colorado, I’ve seen the strain that planning for end-of-life care puts on pet parents. I like using my experience and knowledge to make this necessary part of pet ownership as calm and stress-free as possible.
When I am not working, I love watching movies and spending time outdoors—I would camp and hike if I could get off the couch! I grew up playing soccer, but I played rugby in college and the Army. I enjoy snowboarding and scuba diving and I travel every chance I get. I've been to all 50 states—once in the course of one year! I've also traveled to 30 countries and I've lived in Canada and New Zealand. I'm currently working toward having my own little cabin in the mountains.
About Dr. Henry Lai
I grew up in a suburb of San Jose, California. I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in medicine but I steered specifically toward veterinary medicine after volunteering at an animal shelter. I was able to work with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, pigs, goats, and opossums, and I learned how they were each unique. I enjoyed learning about the many ways veterinarians are able to help pets in all life stages through education, diagnostics, treatments, surgery, and end-of-life care, especially when pets are not able to advocate for themselves.
I moved to Southern California to attend the University of California Irvine, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in biology. I then earned my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California. While I loved California’s beautiful weather and beaches, I found my true home when I moved to Colorado for an internship. I fell in love with the mountains and never left.
I have worked in general practice since graduating, and I love caring for pets during all life stages. I enjoy developing relationships with pets and their families over a pet’s lifetime, and I especially enjoy performing surgery and helping sick pets recover.
Throughout my career, helping pets and their families during their last days has been the most rewarding aspect of veterinary medicine. The gratitude I receive from families when I provide hospice care and perform humane euthanasia is unmatched. Sharing in the final moments with a family's beloved pet truly illustrates the strength of the human-animal bond and the lasting imprint pets make on our lives.
When I am not working, I enjoy snowboarding, hiking, playing video games, traveling, and spending time with my pets—a Siberian husky, a Chihuahua, fish, and two birds.
About Dr. Taylor Locklear
I grew up in North Carolina, and I’m a member of the Lumbee indigenous tribe. Like so many in the veterinary field, I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a veterinarian. My patients of interest, however, weren't so traditional—I wanted to care for every patient imaginable, whether they were furry, scaly, feathered, or hooved!
I focused on zoo medicine in vet school at North Carolina State University and after graduating in 2020, I spent a year in large animal medicine at the University of Tennessee, followed by an exotics specialty internship at Colorado State. Although I learned a lot during these internships, I fell in love with Colorado. I wasn't ready to leave to pursue the zoo residency I had planned for, so I moved from Fort Collins to Denver to work in small animal general practice.
During all of these experiences, I’ve had a strong interest in end-of-life care. I always felt that this was such an incredibly unique and special part of veterinary medicine, a belief that was reinforced by my mother's experiences as a hospice nurse in human medicine.
My interest in end-of-life care was solidified during the loss of my heart dog, Roxy. Roxy was my closest companion through college and my post-graduate experiences. When she began to struggle with cognitive decline, I was able to give her a personalized, peaceful transition. This experience clarified for me that I should be in a line of work that allows me to guide my patients through their transitions with peace, patience, and compassion. Although I miss Roxy greatly, I hope that my own grief journey will help me to support my clients with empathy and gentleness.
Outside of work, my fiancé and I care for a menagerie of animals, including a Sphynx cat (Zuzu), an assortment of lizards, and a pair of guinea pigs (Cookie and Butter). I also have several dozen tropical plants.
Pronouns: He/Him
About Dr. Kaitlin Dozier
Unlike many of my colleagues, I came to veterinary medicine through a slightly less traditional route. Growing up in rural Kansas, I dreamt of opening a non-profit shelter for homeless pets, but I was absolutely convinced that I wouldn’t be able to handle the medical aspects of such a facility. Then, at 18 years of age I took a rather random job as a kennel technician at a local veterinary clinic, and I was instantly hooked. The satisfaction of improving an animal’s quality of life far outweighed my fears that they were suddenly inconsequential, and I finally knew what I wanted to be when I grew up.
During my veterinary studies at Colorado State University, I was a member of the pet hospice club and gained invaluable experience in how to help both owners and their pets through some of the most difficult life stages. Around the same time, I came home for Christmas vacation and found that it was time to help my uncle and grandmother through the loss of their beloved Labrador, Chance. Our local veterinarian was able to visit the farm for this last appointment, and Chance’s final moments were spent out in the sun, in his yard, on his blanket, and surrounded by everyone who loved him. Through the grief, the encompassing sense of relief, love, and family bonding is what I carry with me to this day.
After graduating from the veterinary program at Colorado State University, I worked in a variety of medical settings; from low-income clinics to shelters to general practice, one thing remained constant - I've always loved geriatric medicine. It is an honor to help make a beloved pet’s last years and end of life as peaceful, joyful, and pain-free as possible. Ultimately, I've found a career in my passion and understand the privilege, trust, and vulnerability that comes with preserving the human animal bond during these final moments.
About Dr. Sean Leffert
I am a native of Golden, Colorado and have always been a dog person—although cats are great too! While attending college at Regis University in Denver, I got my start in veterinary medicine by volunteering in the surgery department at a local animal shelter. Working with dogs is rewarding in so many ways, and I was inspired by the level of trust dogs place in those who care for them—even in new and stressful environments. My next step was Kansas State’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
After spending my first post-graduate year pursuing animal welfare advocacy and overseeing livestock euthanasia in a public health position in the Pacific Northwest, I transitioned to canine rehabilitation work, directing medical care at a canine rehabilitation practice. In this role I was able to work closely with dogs and return to my home state. Working with dogs and cats—especially geriatric pets—to improve their mobility and quality of life was a true privilege. Caring for companion animals becomes much more demanding toward the end of life, and I have found that family members of all species are capable of providing exceptional care to their pets.
I have worked alongside a number of physical therapists, veterinarians, and veterinary technicians in the field of rehabilitation, and have greatly enjoyed the collaborative nature of those relationships. I am excited to now be part of a team of caring veterinarians and hospice professionals to focus on caring for elderly companion animals. I am also grateful to collaborate with amazing clients as some of the most important decisions are made for their precious dogs and cats. I am honored by the opportunity to assist in ensuring comfort and peace to beloved pets.
In my free time, I enjoy the outdoors, including playing racquet sports, losing to my older brother in golf, and getting beaten in basketball by my younger brother.
About Dr. Robbie Lawless
My father was in the military, so we moved every two to three years. We lived as far east as Maine and as far west as Hawaii. I loved the experiences I gained, and moving around ultimately led me to Colorado, which is my absolute favorite state.
I was one of those 5-year-olds who latched on to wanting to become a veterinarian and never let go. The profession fit my desire to keep regular company with creatures I adored while fulfilling the drive to constantly learn and solve problems.
I earned an associate’s degree from York College in Nebraska, and then transferred to the University of Oklahoma for my bachelors degree. I earned my doctorate degree from Oklahoma State University.
I found my niche in general practice 20 years ago. It is fulfilling and empowering to walk alongside pet owners from the first days of puppyhood to the rainbow bridge. I enjoy helping them understand what is going on at different life stages so they can make the best decisions about how to care for their pet. I also love general soft tissue and oral surgery. Adding a dedicated time for hospice and compassionate euthanasia will allow me to more completely provide care for the full life of the pet.
When I was a teenager, my beloved dog Petey was euthanized without our family present. Circumstances dictated that we weren't able to be with him and it tore up my heart. I would like every pet who is facing their last moments to be in a loving and comfortable environment surrounded by the people they love. I see compassionate euthanasia as a mercy for pets who are facing illness or decline, and their families. It is very fulfilling to me to provide circumstances where owners can safely grieve and provide the most gentle release from this life for their pets.
I love to read and hike. Devouring a good book in a few days time or conquering a trail are both rejuvenating and invigorating to me in their own ways.
About Dr. Hector Gutierrez
I am from the small Central Illinois town of Pontiac, where I had a small dog growing up. I have wanted to be a veterinarian since childhood, but I became sidetracked in the insurance industry for ten years. I spent those years handling disaster claims and helping people during some of the worst times of their lives. I learned that I really enjoyed being there when I was needed most, and eventually I knew that I was ready to pursue my old dream. I was motivated to give my attention to providing the best care to our pet families.
I attended the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana for my undergraduate degree in economics and finance, and then years later for my veterinary degree. During veterinary school, I learned about the roles veterinarians play in the U.S. Army, caring for military working dogs, assisting with animal care overseas, and ensuring public health by protecting our troops’ food supplies. I joined the Army for six years after graduating. After that, I worked multiple jobs, from public health to small animal practice—where I really enjoyed talking with clients and helping them get the most out of their relationships with their pets.
I’ve had six dogs—mostly huskies—and two cats over the years, and my 14-year-old dog, Ringo, is my only current pet. I know personally how hard it is to lose a pet, and what a tough decision it can be at the end. And after working in multiple practices in Illinois, Canada, and Colorado, I’ve seen the strain that planning for end-of-life care puts on pet parents. I like using my experience and knowledge to make this necessary part of pet ownership as calm and stress-free as possible.
When I am not working, I love watching movies and spending time outdoors—I would camp and hike if I could get off the couch! I grew up playing soccer, but I played rugby in college and the Army. I enjoy snowboarding and scuba diving and I travel every chance I get. I've been to all 50 states—once in the course of one year! I've also traveled to 30 countries and I've lived in Canada and New Zealand. I'm currently working toward having my own little cabin in the mountains.
About Dr. Henry Lai
I grew up in a suburb of San Jose, California. I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in medicine but I steered specifically toward veterinary medicine after volunteering at an animal shelter. I was able to work with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, pigs, goats, and opossums, and I learned how they were each unique. I enjoyed learning about the many ways veterinarians are able to help pets in all life stages through education, diagnostics, treatments, surgery, and end-of-life care, especially when pets are not able to advocate for themselves.
I moved to Southern California to attend the University of California Irvine, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in biology. I then earned my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California. While I loved California’s beautiful weather and beaches, I found my true home when I moved to Colorado for an internship. I fell in love with the mountains and never left.
I have worked in general practice since graduating, and I love caring for pets during all life stages. I enjoy developing relationships with pets and their families over a pet’s lifetime, and I especially enjoy performing surgery and helping sick pets recover.
Throughout my career, helping pets and their families during their last days has been the most rewarding aspect of veterinary medicine. The gratitude I receive from families when I provide hospice care and perform humane euthanasia is unmatched. Sharing in the final moments with a family's beloved pet truly illustrates the strength of the human-animal bond and the lasting imprint pets make on our lives.
When I am not working, I enjoy snowboarding, hiking, playing video games, traveling, and spending time with my pets—a Siberian husky, a Chihuahua, fish, and two birds.
About Dr. Taylor Locklear
I grew up in North Carolina, and I’m a member of the Lumbee indigenous tribe. Like so many in the veterinary field, I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a veterinarian. My patients of interest, however, weren't so traditional—I wanted to care for every patient imaginable, whether they were furry, scaly, feathered, or hooved!
I focused on zoo medicine in vet school at North Carolina State University and after graduating in 2020, I spent a year in large animal medicine at the University of Tennessee, followed by an exotics specialty internship at Colorado State. Although I learned a lot during these internships, I fell in love with Colorado. I wasn't ready to leave to pursue the zoo residency I had planned for, so I moved from Fort Collins to Denver to work in small animal general practice.
During all of these experiences, I’ve had a strong interest in end-of-life care. I always felt that this was such an incredibly unique and special part of veterinary medicine, a belief that was reinforced by my mother's experiences as a hospice nurse in human medicine.
My interest in end-of-life care was solidified during the loss of my heart dog, Roxy. Roxy was my closest companion through college and my post-graduate experiences. When she began to struggle with cognitive decline, I was able to give her a personalized, peaceful transition. This experience clarified for me that I should be in a line of work that allows me to guide my patients through their transitions with peace, patience, and compassion. Although I miss Roxy greatly, I hope that my own grief journey will help me to support my clients with empathy and gentleness.
Outside of work, my fiancé and I care for a menagerie of animals, including a Sphynx cat (Zuzu), an assortment of lizards, and a pair of guinea pigs (Cookie and Butter). I also have several dozen tropical plants.
Pronouns: He/Him