Brian Kersten, a veterinarian from Appleton, Wisconsin, has utilized his childhood experiences on a farm to fuel a distinguished career in veterinary medicine. He graduated with high distinction in Animal Science from the University of Minnesota in 1977 and earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In 2021, recognizing a gap in affordable animal healthcare, he opened Mercy Veterinary Service in Baldwin, Wisconsin. The clinic specializes in small animal surgery, medicine, and dentistry, aiming to provide quality care for pet owners facing financial difficulties.
Beyond managing his clinic, he serves as a relief veterinarian in Amery, Wisconsin, assisting other veterinary practices. This role enhances the availability and quality of veterinary care throughout the region, emphasizing his commitment to animal welfare across different communities.
His professional path was marked by significant experiences that broadened his expertise and humanitarian outlook. After beginning his career in a mixed animal practice, he spent two and a half years in Haiti in 1985, working on veterinary and development projects that benefited both local animals and their owners. This period enriched his professional skills and deepened his understanding of global health challenges.
Aside from his veterinary pursuits, he is actively involved in charitable efforts. He volunteers at Today's Harvest Food Shelf, addressing food insecurity within his community, and supports Mercy Corps, contributing to their international relief initiatives. His involvement with Barefoot Crow Animal Rescue, where he offers veterinary services to rescued animals, showcases his ongoing commitment to improving animal lives.
Brian Kersten's professional and philanthropic activities reflect a deep-seated dedication to service, rooted in his early farm life and extensive medical training. As he approaches the 40th anniversary of his veterinary school graduation, his influence and commitment continue to impact his local community and the broader field of veterinary medicine.