Welcome to the Herd: Kaustubh Dongaonkar

“Cummings School is special because of the people who work here,” says Kaustubh Dongaonkar (he/him), a native of Mumbai, India, who was appointed in November as an assistant clinical professor of small animal surgery at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.

“There is enormous strength in terms of expertise and experience in various clinical departments,” he adds. “Being here provides me with opportunities to not only collaborate and learn from the renowned experts but also to use the supportive environment to achieve my goals as a new faculty member.”

Welcomed by a supportive and friendly community, Dongaonkar appreciates the variety of his new position. “In this role I can treat and perform surgeries on pets, teach students, and conduct clinical research, which I find quite exciting,” he explains. “My mentors from the institutions at which I’ve trained inspired me to pursue this opportunity.” 

Dongaonkar earned a Bachelor of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry, as well as Master of Veterinary Science from Bombay Veterinary College. He holds a master’s degree in small animal clinical sciences from the University of Saskatchewan, where he also completed a residency in small animal surgery following internships at North Carolina State, Auburn, and Louisiana State universities. He served as a veterinarian in Thane, India, for several years before continuing his education.

“I look forward to playing a role in helping students and house officers achieve success in academics and research,” he shares.