Our Doctors
Drs. Guard work in tandem to care for your dog, cat, horse, or farm animal’s needs. Having been schooled at a top ranking veterinary school and as members of a deep rooted island family, they bring a unique perspective and insight to care for all animals of the San Juans.
Dr. Mel Guard
Dr. Mel grew up in Houston, Texas and has always had a passion for companion animals. She attended Austin College where she earned a BA degree in Spanish with a special interest in Latin American Studies. She then attended Texas A&M university where she earned a BS degree in Animal Science and a MS degree in Biomedical Science. She graduated with her DVM degree from Texas A&M in 2017. Dr. Mel’s special interests are in brachycephalic (short-faced) dogs and cats, preventative wellness through all life stages, and client education. In her spare time, Dr. Mel enjoys tending to her laying hens, milking her jersey cow, gardening, and baking.
Dr. Blake Guard
Dr. Blake grew up on a ranch on San Juan Island. As a 6th generation islander, he has always had a love for horses and farm animals. He attended Texas A&M University where he earned a BS degree in Biomedical Science with a minor in Music. Dr. Blake went on to earn his MS degree and PhD degree in Biomedical Science with a focus on Microbiome and Metabolomics research. He then graduated with his DVM degree from Texas A&M University in 2021. Dr. Blake’s special interests are in equine sports medicine, the gastrointestinal microbiome, and educating local producers. In his spare time, Dr. Blake enjoys flying his Cessna, playing piano, and riding his horse, Jacee.
Together, the Drs. Guard work daily to help to manage their family’s sheep and cattle herd on San Juan Island while enjoying raising their 3 young children.
