Meet our Doctors

Erica Bender, DVM

Rotating Veterinarian

I grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and studied anthropology with a concentration in biological anthropology at UCSD. Between my junior and senior year I volunteered at a chimpanzee sanctuary in Zambia, and decided to pursue veterinary medicine. Following graduation, I returned to the Bay Area, spending about two years working in wildlife rehabilitation, including pinnipeds, raptors, and other native animals. In 2018, I moved to Urbana where I completed veterinary school at the University of Illinois.

In my spare time, I enjoy reading any books I can get my hands on, tending to my houseplants, spending time with my three-toed box turtle Snootless, and rooting for the SF Giants. I love hiking and spending time outdoors and can’t wait to explore the DC-Maryland Area.

I first became interested in Friendship because of its reputation for excellent medicine and a collaborative environment. I am excited to be able to learn from the many doctors and specialists to continue developing the skills and knowledge necessary to be a well-rounded veterinarian.

Education

University of California, San Diego, B.A. Anthropology, conc. Biological Anthropology

University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, DVM

Clinical Areas of Interest

  • Zoo and Wildlife Medicine

Friendship provides state of the art, comprehensive services for our clients and patients. But, more than that, we provide a caring team who understand the unique human-animal bond. View Our Services