Michael Petersen, DVM

Dr. Petersen is a 2012 graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. He began his career serving rescue pets with MARS Veterinary Services in Brooklyn Park. He transitioned to Diamond Lake Animal Hospital in Minneapolis, where he was a lead veterinarian for nearly eight years. Dr. Petersen is especially passionate about surgery, dentistry, and ultrasonography. He is a respected voice in our local veterinary community and is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA).

He joined St. Francis Animal Hospital in February 2021. Outside of the clinic, Dr. Petersen spends most of his time at home with his wife, Erin, and three children, Hazel, Ivy, and Jasper. He shares this home with two amazing feline family members, Cocoa (pictured) and Luna, as well as a number of fish. In his spare time, Mike enjoys playing ultimate frisbee competitively, as well as disc golf. Drag’n Thrust, his ultimate frisbee team, won the US National Title in 2013 and 2014 and went on to win the World Title in 2014!

Why do you love being a veterinarian?
I came about the realization I wanted to be a vet more slowly than most. I had finished my undergraduate degree in Biology without a firm plan, and found my way into the pet industry, and realized that I wanted more challenges, more interesting work, and above all, more ability to help. I have always had an inquisitive mind, and love the diagnostic challenges that come along with the job. Above all, I love seeing the bonds grow between pet parents and their furry kids. The relationships built between me, your pet, and you are why I love what I do.

What do you love about St. Francis Animal Hospital?
I love being a part of the knowledgeable, compassionate, and professional team at St. Francis. It’s so important to me not only to provide the best care I can for my patients but develop lasting relationships with their families. This is what really makes the work worthwhile. l also love having such a great team of doctors and staff with so much experience to make sure that all my patients receive the best care possible.