Shelter Medical Director
Student Spotlight: Alyssa Hughes
"I don't think it can be quantified. It really has been invaluable. I am so much smarter and more effective at my job with this degree under my belt."
Dr. Alyssa Hughes’ Journey Through the University of Florida’s Online Shelter Medicine Program
Alyssa Hughes, a dedicated veterinarian based in Park City, Utah, has carved a niche for herself in the field of shelter medicine. As the medical director at a private, limited admission shelter in northern Utah, she oversees a comprehensive veterinary program that includes supervising a team of three veterinarians and five technicians, managing the health of the shelter population, and practicing veterinary medicine. Her role also extends to managing a low-cost community veterinary clinic where she performs surgeries for the public.
Juggling the increased responsibilities in her vital role as medical director, Alyssa enrolled in the University of Florida’s online Shelter Medicine program and graduated in May 2023. She wanted a program associated with a reputable veterinary medicine program and tailored for working professionals. Alyssa also knew several veterinarians who completed the program and vouched for its quality.
“When I was hired as the medical director at my job in 2014, I knew a little about sheltering. There was so much I didn’t know, and I didn’t have a mentor. I just relied on online research,” Alyssa said. The Maples Center’s Shelter Medicine program provided her with a structured, comprehensive education that empowered her to implement critical changes at her organization, particularly in areas like capacity for care, facilities, and community outreach.
Alyssa called upon the lessons she learned in the program when a diarrheal outbreak hit in her shelter’s dog population. “I knew exactly what to do thanks to my coursework in infectious diseases,” she said. Alyssa’s new knowledge proved invaluable in managing and mitigating the outbreak effectively, and the program’s public health course equipped her to build a community clinic from the ground up, which now performs approximately 300 surgeries per month.
Alyssa’s commitment to her education and professional development did not stop at graduation. She is currently pursuing board certification in Shelter Medicine with the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP). “Doing the UF program helped me realize how much more there was to learn about shelter medicine,” she said. Her goal is to avoid becoming complacent in her career, continually seeking new knowledge and skills to help her in her critical work. Alyssa’s commitment to her education and professional development did not stop at graduation. She is currently pursuing board certification in Shelter Medicine with the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP). “Doing the UF program helped me realize how much more there was to learn about shelter medicine,” she said. Her goal is to avoid becoming complacent in her career, continually seeking new knowledge and skills to help her in her critical work.
Continuing her pursuit of professional development and education, Alyssa attended the first Animal Forensic Investigations Conference in Gainesville in summer 2024. “The team of vets at the forensics center were so supportive and encouraging,” she said. “They helped me understand that I can do forensics in my current job without being an expert in the field.” The conference not only broadened her knowledge but also provided her with practical skills that she can immediately apply to her current role.
Her resilient journey in shelter medicine has taught her to rise to the challenges she faces in the field. She acknowledges the misconceptions about shelter medicine, particularly the notion that it is “just spay/neuter.” These misconceptions can oftentimes be disheartening, but they only fuel her determination to excel and raise awareness in her field. “I’ve definitely had to grow thick skin as a shelter vet,” she said.
For Alyssa, the support and education she received from the online Shelter Medicine program has been critical. “I don’t think it can be quantified. It really has been invaluable. I am so much smarter and more effective at my job with this degree under my belt,” she said. Her academic journey at the University of Florida fostered her confidence and skills needed to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the animals and community she serves.
Alyssa’s story is a compelling example of how dedication to continuous learning and professional growth can lead to significant achievements and improvements in one’s field. Her experience with the University of Florida’s online Shelter Medicine program has not only enhanced her skills but also equipped her to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the animals and communities she serves.
The UF Veterinary Shelter Medicine online program offers a Master of Science in Veterinary Medical Sciences with a Concentration in Shelter Medicine, an online graduate certificate in shelter medicine, and continuing education courses. The program allows students to interact with the content in an asynchronous, online-delivery format on their schedules while encouraging students to reflect on prior experiences in shelter medicine. Students learn best practices and broaden career opportunities in this rapidly growing field where there is a high demand for well-trained professionals to address the health and welfare issues unique to animal shelters. Explore programs and apply easily online.