Meet Dr. Michelle Wendell, DVM, MS
Owner & Veterinarian
Growing up in a small rural community in western Nebraska, I developed a love for animals and a passion for veterinary medicine at an early age. I earned my bachelor’s degree from Chadron State College, followed by my master’s degree and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Colorado State University.
After practicing in Las Vegas, Nevada, where I served as hospital director of Sunset Eastern Animal Hospital, I moved to Northwest Arkansas in 2004. I worked at the Animal Emergency Clinic of Northwest Arkansas and Best Friends Animal Hospital before purchasing Southwest Pet Hospital in February 2011.
I’ve always enjoyed the diversity and challenges of veterinary medicine, particularly internal medicine, emergency and critical care, surgery, dermatology, and animal behavior. But what I find most rewarding is the privilege of caring for patients throughout their lives—from their first puppy or kitten visit to the difficult time when their families must say goodbye. The relationships I build with my patients and their families make veterinary medicine incredibly meaningful to me.
I believe exceptional veterinary care begins with listening, understanding, and recognizing that no two pets—or families—are exactly alike. My goal is to help clients feel educated, informed, and confident in making healthcare decisions that consider not only their pet’s medical needs, but also their temperament, home environment, and the practical realities of providing care.
Owning an independent veterinary hospital allows me to practice medicine according to the standards and values I believe every patient deserves, while preserving the personal relationships that are so important to me. I’m equally proud of our compassionate, knowledgeable team members who genuinely love and care for our patients as much as I do.
My commitment to animal welfare has extended beyond our hospital through my longstanding involvement with Springdale Animal Services and Recycled Rovers Rescue, which I founded in 2011 and which became a nonprofit in 2014.
Outside of veterinary medicine, I enjoy spending time with my family and pursuing my interest in dog training, particularly with my working-line German Shepherd Dog, Yara. Our hospital family also includes our beloved clinic cats, Murdock and Leia.
As the owner of a locally owned, independent, woman-owned small business, I’m especially grateful to the families who choose to support Southwest Pet Hospital and the dedicated team who makes our care possible.
My goal is not simply to meet expectations, but to exceed them—providing exceptional medicine, compassionate care, and personal attention that earns a family’s lasting trust. Nothing is more rewarding than knowing our clients feel confident recommending Southwest Pet Hospital to their friends and family.