“Care is not just about treating the disease. It is about helping each pet feel better, move better, and live more comfortably.”
Dr. Kathryn Mitchener has spent her career helping pets and their families through some of the most difficult medical challenges a pet can face. With nearly four decades of veterinary experience and a deep focus on cancer care, she brings both advanced medical knowledge and genuine compassion to every patient she treats.
Today Dr. Mitchener practices exclusively at Angel Care Integrative Oncology & Natural Healing for Pets in Memphis, Tennessee, where she provides thoughtful cancer care designed to support both longevity and quality of life.
Dr. Mitchener earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in 1985.
Shortly after graduating, she returned to the University of Tennessee to pursue advanced training in oncology and internal medicine. This residency allowed her to deepen her understanding of cancer biology, diagnostic imaging, and treatment planning for complex medical cases.
Her early focus on oncology helped shape a career dedicated to helping pets facing cancer live longer, healthier, and more comfortable lives.
Dr. Mitchener has been practicing veterinary medicine for almost forty years, with much of that time focused on diagnosing and treating cancer in companion animals.
In 1989, Dr. Kathy began an outpatient oncology referral service in Memphis. This program later helped lead to the creation of the clinical oncology department at Memphis Veterinary Specialists.
In 2004, she founded Angel Care Cancer Clinic for Animals, where her focus expanded to include both conventional oncology and supportive therapies designed to improve comfort and quality of life.
Her experience treating complex cancer cases allows her to guide families through diagnosis, treatment decisions, and long term care planning with clarity and compassion.
Throughout her career Dr. Mitchener has received recognition from veterinary organizations for both her medical contributions and her dedication to the human animal bond.
Her honors include:
These awards recognize not only medical expertise but also her commitment to improving the lives of both pets and their families.
Dr. Mitchener has also contributed to veterinary medical research and education.
Her work has been published in respected veterinary journals including:
Her research has explored areas such as tumor diagnostics, imaging techniques, and compassion fatigue in veterinary professionals.
Publishing in peer-reviewed journals reflects her commitment to evidence-based medicine and continued advancement in veterinary care.
Dr. Mitchener has long believed that veterinary medicine should recognize the powerful connection between pets and their families.
She helped establish programs focused on this relationship, including:
Her work in this area also helped support the development of the Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association Human Animal Bond Foundation and the Hall of Fame for Animals.
Cancer care in veterinary medicine requires a unique balance of science, compassion, and communication.
Dr. Mitchener was drawn to oncology because it allows her to work closely with families during critical moments in their pet’s life. Each case requires thoughtful medical planning while also helping families understand their options and feel supported throughout treatment.
Her goal has always been to help pets live their best life for as long as possible while making sure families feel informed and supported at every step.
At Angel Care, Dr. Mitchener remains actively involved throughout the treatment process.
She personally oversees care plans and remains present while treatments are being administered. Pet owners are also welcome to stay with their pets during visits, which helps create a calmer and more reassuring experience for both pets and their families.
This level of involvement reflects the philosophy of Angel Care: medicine guided by experience, compassion, and respect for the bond between pets and the people who love them.
Dr. Mitchener now practices exclusively at:
Angel Care Integrative Oncology & Natural Healing for Pets
1017 Oakhaven Road
Memphis, Tennessee
Her work continues to focus on helping pets facing cancer live with comfort, dignity, and the highest possible quality of life.
