This month, we’re excited to celebrate Dr. Salmond-Jimenez as our TopDoc Award recipient. 

From an early fascination with life sciences to a career that now spans both client education and diagnostic imaging, Dr. Salmond-Jimenez has followed a path rooted in curiosity, compassion, and care. As part of this recognition, Dr. Salmond-Jimenez has selected Helping Up Mission in Baltimore, MD as their donation recipient.

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We sat down with Dr. Salmond-Jimenez to learn more about their journey, philosophy, and the impact they strive to make in veterinary medicine.

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Can you tell us about your path to becoming a veterinarian? When did you know you wanted to be a vet — and why? 

I’ve wanted to be a veterinarian since I was seven. I was always fascinated by living things — how they worked and how I could help them keep working. From preserving the environment to supporting animal wellbeing, I found joy in understanding life and protecting it. That passion led me to graduate from Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2006, followed by a rotational internship in 2007.

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What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day work as a veterinarian?

Educating clients is one of the best parts of the job. I love working with a team that genuinely enjoys helping our community, both pets and people, and I appreciate the variety of care we get to provide every day.

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How has your role evolved over the years?
I initially focused on exotic pets and wildlife, but my career shifted toward imaging, especially ultrasound. It’s become a valuable tool that allows me to support my colleagues and guide patient care in a more targeted, effective way.

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How do you feel you make the biggest impact on your patients and their families?
Listening goes a long way. I try to create space for collaboration with pet owners and align on what’s best for their pets. That trust and availability can really make a difference.

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What separates good vets from great vets?
Honestly, I think most of my colleagues are doing their very best. We’ve all taken the same Oath, and we all show up intending to do right by our patients.

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What advice would you give to someone considering a career in veterinary medicine?
Take advantage of the resources available to you. From financial support to platforms like HappyDoc and strong HR services, there are tools out there that can help you build a sustainable, successful career in this challenging field.

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How do you manage the responsibilities of running a practice while staying focused on patient care?
I’m fortunate to have a great work partner. We balance our strengths and divide responsibilities based on that. Staying organized is key — it keeps the day-to-day manageable.

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If you weren’t a veterinarian, what do you think you’d be doing instead?
Probably singing and stargazing — I think I would’ve been a singer and an astronomer.

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Why did you choose Helping Up Mission as the organization for HappyDoc’s donation?
I grew up in Baltimore and saw a lot of struggle in the community. Helping Up Mission has supported many people, including some close to me, in getting back on their feet. It means a lot to give back to a place that’s made such a difference in people’s lives.