2026 Veterinary Hero Recognized for Compassionate Approach to Animal Behavior

## Meet the 2026 Veterinary Hero Vanessa Spano, a veterinarian with a lifelong love of animals, has been recognized as a 2026 Veterinary Hero for her work in veterinary behavioral medicine. Growing up in New York, Spano developed a deep empathy for animals and a desire to help them. Her own experiences with anxiety and depression also played a role in her decision to pursue a career in veterinary behavior. ## A Compassionate Approach to Animal Behavior As the head of the first-ever behavior service at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center, Spano brings together her clinical expertise, shelter medicine experience, and deep understanding of animal behavior to provide compassionate care to her patients. Her philosophy is centered around the idea that behavior is a function of the environment, and that changing the environment is often more effective than trying to change the animal itself. This approach is reflected in her treatment planning, which is tailored to the individual needs of each animal. ## Making a Difference in the Community Spano's dedication to making behavioral specialty care more accessible has taken her to community outreach programs, discounted shelter partnerships, and free public education initiatives. With only approximately 100 board-certified veterinary behaviorists across North America, she is acutely aware of the responsibility that comes with her role. Despite the challenges, Spano remains committed to her mission of making animals happy, one animal at a time.