Rate My Professor Kara Carmody

Kara Carmody, DVM, serves as Associate Professor - Primary Care and Head of Primary Care in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities College of Veterinary Medicine. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine in 2013, preceded by a Bachelor of Science from South Dakota State University. As a general practitioner in Primary Care at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center, Dr. Carmody works primarily with cats and dogs. She is passionate about preventive care, with a special emphasis on dentistry and nutrition management to enhance pet health and longevity. Her research interests mirror this focus, emphasizing oral health and nutritional strategies in companion animal medicine.

The human-animal bond is central to Dr. Carmody's approach, driving her dedication to training veterinary students in advanced clinical skills and effective client communication. She co-authored the University of Minnesota Veterinary Communication Curriculum Guide with Margaret Root Kustritz and Emily Barrell, authoring chapters including Client Encounter Framework, Informed/Owner Consent, Conflict & ADOBe, Giving & Receiving Feedback, and Communication Techniques: Non-Verbal. Dr. Carmody developed veterinary communication courses through a partnership between the College of Veterinary Medicine and the University of Minnesota Medical School. She holds memberships in the American Veterinary Medical Association, Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association, and American Association of Feline Practitioners. Dr. Carmody contributes to public education via University news, sharing expertise on pet dental health, senior pet care including outpatient acupuncture for pain management and mobility, nutrition, and heartworm prevention in Minnesota. Her progression from Assistant Professor (2017-2023) to Associate Professor highlights her sustained impact on veterinary education and primary care delivery.