Ordering Information
$24.95, 6 x 9 in, PB, 190 pages
ISBN: 978-1-963714-17-3
Publication date: Fall 2026
To order copies, please visit CasemateIPM.com or give them a call at (610) 853-9131.
North of the Collar
48 Hours in the Life of a Small Animal Veterinarian
by Heath McNutt, DVM
Follow small animal veterinarian Heath McNutt as he goes about his day, jumping from neutering a Maine Coon cat to addressing a pet owner’s concerns about her older Golden Retriever. No visit is routine and every page is filled with heart-warming, and sometimes heart-wrenching, moments. Get an up close and personal look behind-the-scenes at a local veterinary clinic and catch a glimpse into a veterinarian’s family life. You’ll feel inspired by how the McNutt family navigates their busy lives while finding time to create a full and loving home.
Readers’ Comments
“North of the Collar is a heartwarming and honest look at the chaotic, rewarding life of two married veterinarians navigating the challenges of running a small-town practice while raising four children. Through stories of both difficult medical cases and quiet morning routines, the author captures the delicate dance of managing a small business without losing sight of the family moments that matter most. It is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the grit and compassion required to serve a community and a family with equal devotion.”
—Dr. Andy Roark is a practicing veterinarian, international speaker, author and media personality
“In this riveting narrative, Dr. McNutt captures the emotional and intellectually challenging realities of a small animal veterinary practice. North of the Collar has the pace and accurate medical detail of The Pitt along with the humor and compassion of James Herriot. This is a great read for anyone who loves animals and a must-read for anyone contemplating a career in veterinary medicine. It reminds us why the personalized care and dedication of veterinary clinicians like Dr. McNutt are so important.”
—Carol Gifford, DVM DABVP, founder/owner of Riverside Veterinary Care in Rutland and Ludlow, VT, and the only DABVP specialist in the state of Vermont
“Dr. McNutt’s perspective on the emotional complexities, simple joys, and critical thinking as a veterinarian speaks to members of the Vet Med community and pet owners alike. An uplifting read that will renew your faith in veterinary care and the people dedicated to the preservation of the human-animal bond.”
—Becky Vaughan, CVT, VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia) (Clinical Practice – can/fel)
About the Author
Heath McNutt, DVM, was raised in New England and graduated from the University of Maine in Orono before attending St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine. He has practiced veterinary medicine in Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire. Professionally, he enjoys the connection and relationships developed by managing the lifelong health care of the pets in his community. In his personal life, Heath enjoys spending time with his wife, their four children and their menagerie of pets. He also enjoys hiking, seeing new places, and reading.
