Michael Doolen, DVM - TRENTON, NJ

Exotic & Avian Surgery
Dr. Doolen grew up in Montana with horses and started taking care of all sorts of birds and exotic animals at a young age. He worked as a professional photographer in Iowa until 1982, when his exotic bird rescue and breeding hobby resulted in his decision to go back to school to become a veterinarian in order to help advance exotic animal medicine, which was in its infancy at the time. He earned his DVM at Iowa State University in 1991 and stayed there for 3 ½ years, working as an exotics clinician in the teaching hospital and developing an avian and exotics program there. In 1994, he joined a general practice in New Jersey and spent 15 years there, developing and directing an avian and exotics service.

Dr. Doolen has written and presented many articles and text entries, and lectures extensively locally, nationally, and internationally. He served as an adjunct assistant professor for 5 years at the University of Pennsylvania, contributing to the development of the exotics program there. He has served on the executive board of directors of the Association of Avian Veterinarians and is an active member of Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians, Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians, AVMA, and NJVMA. He is also an active supporter of several avian and exotic animal organizations, including the New Jersey House Rabbit Society.

Dr. Doolen is eligible for, and working toward, board certifications in avian, exotic mammal, and reptilian medicine under the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. He has consulted with several commercial companies that provide instruments and equipment for the veterinary community, developing specialized equipment for use with exotic animals. He has served several organizations by offering his feedback and advice to bird and exotic animal owners online. Much of his consulting time has involved training veterinarians and students in the use of high-frequency radiosurgical equipment. His personal interests include classic cars, woodworking, photography, and enjoying his cat, Macaw, and Amazon parrot. He joined the NorthStar team in September 2010 to be in an environment where he can further advance the state of the art in avian and exotic medicine, surgery, and behavior. His articles and credentials are listed on his personal website, www.doolen.com.