Dr. Kelly Haeusler
Dr. Kelly Haeusler’s passion for animals began with a love for marine life growing up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. It led to employment as a diver at Marine Life in Gulfport followed by a B.S. degree in Marine Biology at University of Southern Mississippi with minors is Chemistry and Music (piano). While attending summer classes at Marine Biological Laboratories in Ocean Springs, a professor encouraged her to pursue a veterinary medical degree. She received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University during which she attended Aquavet at Woods Hole, Massachusetts.
Paradise in Destin, Florida became her destination to begin a lifetime career. In 1998, she purchased Airport Veterinary Clinic, and it grew into a thriving business with 4 veterinarians and 11 support staff. Dr. Haeusler is a professional member of AVMA, FVMA, and is an active member and leader of the Miracle Strip Veterinary Medical Society. Dr. Haeusler is a two time recipient (2001 and 2019) of the Gold Star Award from the FVMA, which recognizes contribution and leadership in veterinary medicine in Florida. One of her favorite activities is the annual judging and presenting awards at the Okaloosa County regional science fair (31 consecutive years so far!) In June 2021, Dr. Haeusler sold her remaining interest of Airport Vet Clinic to her business associate, Dr. Misha Ratcliff. She continues as a full-time associate.
Community service is important to Dr. Haeusler as she raised two children. She loved her time serving as a Boy Scout troop leader, camping, and immersing in the many extra-curriculars surrounding school and sports. She is a member of the Destin United Methodist Church and enjoys swimming, gardening, and participating in the summer activities of Destin.
Adventure travels have led Dr. Haeusler to Li River in Guilin, China; hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu; science expedition in the Galapagos Islands; caving in Chiang Mai, Thailand; and tramping through the hot, wet jungles of Costa Rica to explore 3% of the Earth’s biodiversity at the Sirena Biologic Station. Other adventures were hiking a portion of the Appalachian Trail as well as the foothills of Mt. Denali in Alaska. Recent activities include scuba diving and caving in Belize, the second largest barrier reef in the world!