Dr. Merkatoris is a board-certified Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. He completed both a BS in animal science and a DVM at the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Veterinary Medicine before pursuing advanced surgical training through a residency in large animal surgery at Iowa State University. Currently, he works as an assistant teaching professor of large animal surgery at the UW School of Veterinary Medicine and a large animal surgeon with UW Veterinary Care.
As an undergraduate, Dr. Merkatoris sought broad exposure to the veterinary field, gaining experience in wildlife medicine, research, small animal practice, and specialty practice, with particular emphasis on large animal surgery. His research experience, including work in swine nutrition and presenting at an international conference, further strengthened his academic foundation. Shadowing a large animal surgeon proved pivotal in his decision to pursue surgical specialization. Before attending the University of Wisconsin, Dr. Merkatoris developed a deep-rooted interest in animal health through extensive involvement in animal agriculture and performance animals. Raising and showing livestock in 4-H, competing nationally with registered Quarter Horses, and training AKC-registered Labrador Retrievers helped shape his foundation in animal husbandry and sparked his early interest in veterinary medicine.
Throughout veterinary school, Dr. Merkatoris remained active in research focused on the treatment and prevention of lameness in cattle, an area that continues to be a major professional interest. He has been published in numerous journals, including the Journal of Animal Science, Frontiers in Veterinary Science, Veterinary Surgery, the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, and others.
Dr. Merkatoris’clinical skills have led to unique opportunities, including medical and surgical work with zoo species such as giraffes, bison, and rhinoceroses. Following veterinary school, he completed a private practice large animal internship prior to returning to Iowa State University for his surgical residency, where he gained extensive experience with horses, cattle, sheep, goats, alpacas, and swine.
Across years in academic practice, Dr. Merkatoris has developed a strong passion for teaching and mentorship. He works closely with learners at all stages, from high school and undergraduate students to veterinary students, interns, residents, and recent graduates, helping them develop clinical reasoning, surgical technique, and professional confidence. Dr. Merkatoris remembers the veterinary school application process as both exciting and uncertain, and as a counselor, he is committed to helping applicants navigate the process with clarity. He believes that personal connection is essential to identifying a student’s strengths and crafting an application that is authentic, compelling, and reflective of their goals.
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