Dr. Nilufer (Nil) Wilkins graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 1983. When she was in the ninth grade, her Civics class gave students the project to select three careers they were interested in and to interview someone in the community in each career. Given from a young age Dr. Wilkins had always wanted to help animals, she could only choose one career – to be a veterinarian. Dr. Wilkins has over 39 years as a practicing veterinarian, including working as an associate and relief veterinarian in several small animal practices; as staff veterinarian at two different county animal shelters, adopting several “foster failures” so that at one point their family had six cats; and providing hospice and end of life care for family pets in the home. Dr. Wilkins believes in practicing preventative medicine and educating families on its benefits for both the families and their pets. Her special interests include cats (no surprise!) and helping guide families in end-of-life decisions. Dr. Wilkins enjoys reading, listening to classical music (especially Baroque), traveling, and spending time with family and friends. She currently lives in Florida with her husband of 40 years and three cats. They also have two grown daughters. Dr. Wilkins joined FirstVet in 2023.