TopDoc Spotlight: Donald Olson, DVM

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This month, we’re proud to honor Dr. Donald Olson at Amclare Veterinary Hospital as our TopDoc Award recipient. From growing up on a pig farm in Minnesota to becoming the owner of a small animal hospital, Dr. Olson has dedicated their life to helping animals live healthier, more comfortable lives. As part of this recognition, Dr. Olson has chosen Erie County SPCA as their donation recipient — an organization close to their heart.

We sat down with Dr. Donald Olson to hear more about their journey, philosophy, and the impact they hope to make in the veterinary field.

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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 grew up in Minnesota and helped out on my uncle’s pig farm. I knew early on that I didn’t want to spend my life working on the farm — but I did want to help animals. That’s what led me to pursue a career as a small animal vet.

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What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day work as a veterinarian?
Being an advocate for the animals. I love being able to diagnose a problem and make the patient more comfortable so that they can have a better quality of life.

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How has your role evolved over the years?
I started out as an associate veterinarian. Over time, I became the hospital owner, which has brought a whole new set of responsibilities — but also a deeper connection to the practice and the community.

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 How do you feel you make the biggest impact on your patients and their families?
I focus on helping owners understand what their pet is going through and what they can do to help. That communication and trust is everything.

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What separates good vets from great vets?
Good vets do what’s necessary to keep the patient healthy. Great vets do that and go the extra mile to support the owners, too.

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What advice would you give to someone considering a career in veterinary medicine?
It takes time, practice, and a strong bedside manner. And you need a great support system. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.

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Are there any misconceptions about veterinary care that you wish more people understood?
That we’re not in it for the money. Most of us really are doing our best — trying to make everyone happy while keeping the pet’s health and quality of life front and center.

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How do you manage the responsibilities of running a practice while staying focused on patient care?
It’s definitely a challenge. You have to find a happy medium and be intentional with your time.

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If you weren’t a veterinarian, what do you think you’d be doing instead?
I’d love to run a bed and breakfast on a vineyard in California. Something peaceful and totally different!

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Why did you choose the Erie County SPCA for HappyDoc’s donation?
They’re an outstanding facility doing great work with limited resources. They need support in their mission to provide homes and medical care for pets in need — and I’m proud to help them however I can.