Dr. Jillian Lake has had a lifelong love of animals which was fostered by riding horses in Ramona, CA and loving her various family pets. She chose to pursue her passion for animals by obtaining a Zoology degree at UC Santa Barbara. After graduation, she worked locally in canine physical therapy for eight years in Santa Barbara.

Wanting to follow her passion for animal care further, Dr. Lake made the choice to pursue veterinary school and was accepted into the WIMU Regional Program. She completed her first two years at Utah State University before finishing her clinical training at Washington State University. Her rotations in school affirmed her passion for specialty service.

After graduation, Dr. Lake was accepted into a competitive rotating internship at VCA Animal Specialty Group in Glendale, where she expanded her clinical skills and gained experience managing complex cases.

Dr. Lake is excited to return home to Santa Barbara and be part of the team at AVS. She is honored to serve the people and pets of Santa Barbara with the compassion she’s always had as well as with the expertise she learned throughout her journey.

Outside of the hospital, Dr. Lake enjoys spending time with her husband, Dave, and their energetic Border Collie mix, Lambeau. Whether hiking, heading to the beach, or exploring new dog sports, like agility, Dr. Lake is happiest when she’s with her four-legged companion.