Most people knew that Dr. Kim Murphy would become a veterinarian before she did.
An animal lover since she was a kid, her first aspiration was to be a marine biologist. “Once I made it to high school and career decisions became more of a reality, I realized I wanted to make a living in my hometown,” she recalled.
But she was still unsure where that career would take her. So, she decided to take part in a co-op program in 12th grade. “I was assigned to volunteer at a local veterinary hospital. My second week there, the veterinarian performed an emergency c-section on a dog. As the doctor helped bring each new little life into the world, it was all hands on deck to resuscitate the pups. I received a crash course on what it means to save a life, and I’ve been hooked ever since.”
Her path would take her to start her post-secondary education at Dalhousie Faculty of Agriculture (formally NSAC) before heading to PEI to finish her studies at the Atlantic Veterinary College.
She had the skills and the passion to go anywhere else. But her heart was set on one place – Cape Breton Island. 
“It goes without saying that islanders can be described as kind, compassionate, and genuine,” she said when asked why her hometown is a great place to practice veterinary medicine. “From beloved family dogs to feral cat colonies in our communities, the people of Cape Breton know the importance of animal health and welfare for all. Because of this, most of our clients have a deep respect and appreciation for what we do, which makes our jobs so much more fulfilling.”
The growing demand for veterinary services has been felt nationwide for the past several years. And smaller communities in particular, such as Cape Breton, have felt the effects of this ongoing issue. So, in 2021, we established the first social enterprise hospital in eastern Canada – the SPCA Veterinary Hospital – with a location opening in Cape Breton not too long after.
Now called Tartan Tails Veterinary Hospital, a change to reflect and reinforce the fact that we are open and available to everyone, it serves three local communities across the province: Dartmouth, Cape Breton and Stellarton.
Dr. Murphy joined Cape Breton Tartan Tails Veterinary Hospital in 2023. It was clear from the way she was welcomed that the community had a connection with her. And that to her is what makes this career even more special. “I feel being a veterinarian is an impactful career in any town; however, personally providing veterinary care where I grew up is much more meaningful to me. From family and friends to neighbours and old school teachers, I’ve been able to provide services to people who shaped me into the person I am today. To me, that is the ultimate privilege in my career.”
Tartan Tails has deep local roots, having always been Nova Scotian proud. The veterinary hospital, similar to the tartan itself, symbolizes family and hope for new beginnings. Fur patients and their families get the love and care they need, all wrapped up in the well-known Nova Scotian hospitality. And Dr. Murphy added, “Although the [shortage] crisis in our profession persists, Tartan Tails is fully staffed and ready to provide compassionate care in a timely fashion.”
This commitment to both the community and its furry residents is what truly sets Tartan Tails apart. Dr. Murphy goes on to say, “We’re truly here to help. We pride ourselves in caring for the community members and strive to create a supportive environment in which we adapt to clients’ individual circumstances while ensuring their beloved pets receive the care they deserve.”
Because at the end of the day, our goal is to keep more pets in loving homes.
You can find out more information by visiting www.tartantailsvet.ca and booking an appointment today for your furry friend at the nearest location to you.