Dr. Jody Katz

I grew up in a small town in central Florida and I had the benefit of having many pets from cats and dogs to bunnies and horses. I feel very fortunate to have a career that I love. It allows me to combine my heartfelt joy for furry friends and my passion for medicine and science. My studies have taken me around the southeast. I first attended Maryville College in East Tennessee for my undergraduate studies in Chemistry and Biology. I was lucky to get a first rate liberal arts education and to meet my future husband! Next, I attended the University of Georgia to study Microbiology in Graduate school. I acted as a TA in Biology as well. I attended Veterinary school at the University of Georgia, graduating first in my class in 1992. I was then selected to stay at UGA to complete an Internship in small animal medicine and surgery.

After my internship, I elected to venture into the world of private veterinary practice. My first job was in Georgia, just a bit north of Atlanta. After that, we moved back to central Florida to be near family. I was so lucky to be a part of a busy multi-doctor practice in Longwood, FL for 13 years. In 2007, my husband and our two children moved to Apex, NC. From the start, we felt right at home. If I had to pick one reason why we love North Carolina so much, I’d have to say it is the people. Everyone is so friendly and engaging, whether you’re a Tarheel native or a transplant.  For several years after we moved, I worked as a Relief Veterinarian all around the Triangle. In April 2013 I came to Lake Pine Animal Hospital as a full-time associate and on December 31, 2015, I became the proud owner!

My philosophy is to spend time with each client and patient the way I would want a doctor to spend time with me. I strive to offer the best care I can. I especially enjoy developing relationships with clients and pets and I hope to make people feel comfortable asking questions. I have three cats — Walter, Black Betty, and Floki — and two dogs named Hershel and Dezi.

I am Jody Katz, a veterinarian and owner at Lake Pine Animal Hospital in Apex, North Carolina. I graduated from the University of Georgia in 1992 and began with a year-long rotating internship in small animal medicine and surgery. After working in North Georgia and Florida, I moved to North Carolina in 2007 and joined Lake Pine Animal Hospital in 2013. I had the privilege of becoming an owner of Lake Pine Animal Hospital in 2016.

Dr. Jody Katz
Lake Pine Animal Hospital

Many people think that being a veterinarian is all about playing with puppies and kittens, which is definitely a bonus. But for me, the appeal lies in my love for medicine, helping others, and fixing things. I've always felt a strong connection to helping animals, stemming from my childhood on a farm in rural Central Florida.

My favorite part of this profession is the connection I feel with the families and being a part of a pet's life, from puppy or kitten to adulthood. I take great joy in being involved in the bond between families and their pets. Another aspect I cherish is being a part of the journey of rescue animals and their new families, which is incredibly rewarding.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my children. My son Sam works here at Lake Pine and plays football for NC Central, while my daughter is studying abroad. We love traveling and experiencing different cultures together. At home, I have a passion for gardening and quilting.

My educational journey started at Maryville College, majoring in chemistry, and continued at the University of Georgia for veterinary school. I completed my veterinary degree in 1992 and started practicing in Central Florida. After moving to North Carolina in 2007, I initially focused on being a stay-at-home mom before doing relief work and eventually joining Lake Pine Animal Hospital. We've been fortunate to grow and flourish as a practice, especially after moving to our new location during the pandemic.

We collaborate with several rescues for medical and sick care, such as Paw Prints Animal Rescue and Pawfect Match Animal Rescue. Additionally, we work with local high schools like Athens Drive and Apex High School, offering internship and externship programs in veterinary medicine.

What sets us apart is our commitment to connecting with families and tailoring our approach to each pet's needs. We're proud members of various veterinary associations and participate actively in veterinary information networks, sharing knowledge and resources with colleagues across the country.

Apex is a wonderful place to live, known for its active community and diversity. At Lake Pine Animal Hospital, we strive to create a welcoming environment where every visit feels like coming home. We want our clients and their pets to feel comfortable and cared for, embodying a culture of warmth and ease throughout our practice.

Thank you for considering Lake Pine Animal Hospital in Apex, North Carolina, for your veterinary needs. We look forward to serving you and your pets.

If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (919) 380-1157, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram