Hometown Hero:
Dr. Carol Holgate
Owner and Veterinary, Desert View Veterinary Clinic
Dr. Carol Holgate established Desert View Veterinary Clinic in Tuba City in 2000 after graduating as a veterinarian from Colorado State University in 1997. Originally from Tuba City, Arizona, Dr. Holgate has dedicated her career to serving the local community and its animals.
Dr. Holgate has been married to Elward Holgate for 35 years, and the couple has worked together full-time at the clinic since 2008. Dr. Holgate's father shared with her when she graduated from CSU that he remembers her expressing a desire to be a "Navajo doctor."
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The clinic began with a modest focus on spay/neuter procedures, vaccinations, and a mobile clinic. Over the years, it has expanded its services to accommodate a variety of animals, including horses, cattle, sheep and poultry, as well as emergency cases. Dr. Holgate also collaborates with the Tuba City Humane Society to further support local animal welfare.
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Dr. Holgate has noted the challenges of managing her time effectively, as many clients travel significant distances to seek her services. This commitment drives her to strive for more for the animals in a timely manner. Recently, she has acknowledged the need to find a better work-life balance to sustain her efforts in the long term but wants everyone to know she is available to the community.