Dr. Ruffner grew up in Wilmington and graduated with a B.A. In Communications and a B.S. in Biology from N.C. State University before receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Tennessee in 2013. She spent 7 wonderful years in small animal general practice in Surf City, N.C. before pursing a full-time career in small animal emergency. Dr. Ruffner served as the district representative for the North Carolina Veterinary Medical Association for 9 years and was awarded Young Veterinarian of the Year in 2019 by the organization. In her spare time, Dr. Ruffner enjoys traveling, relaxing by the water, and spending time with her husband, Stephen, and their pets.