Drs. Mark and Debra Holmes opened Paws of the Rockies Animal Hospital in April  of 2001. Living in the large city of Phoenix in the immediate years following their veterinary education, forced them to re- evaluate the quality of their lives. They decided together that their health, a clean environment and a friendly community were more important than living in one of the largest growing cities in the nation and the financial benefits that were available to them. Taking what their experiences taught them, they ventured to take a risk that would allow them to live a quality life in what has always been an embracing community. Together, they felt they would create a strong professional partnership, each having special interests in different areas of veterinary medicine and thus, Paws of the Rockies Animal Hospital was founded. They firmly believe that “integrity and excellence in practicing veterinary medicine as well as strong client communication are the hallmarks of a successful practice.” In addition, they firmly believe that always keeping the “best interest of the patient in mind is vital to maintaining that very integrity.” Finally, Drs. Holmes are fully “dedicated to providing comprehensive care for their patients and excellent communication to their clients” so that informed medical decisions can be made.

Dr. Mark Holmes

Dr. Mark Holmes, a native of New Mexico, obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology. He went on to receive his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Colorado State University in 1997. He completed an internship at a surgery and oncology referral center in Scottsdale, Arizona. He then became an associate veterinarian at a small animal practice in Scottsdale for two and a half years. His professional interests include surgery, emergency medicine, orthopedic diseases and management of arthritis. Personally, he loves to compete in triathlons and adventure races. Finally, he loves spending time with his family, Debra his wife and children, Keaton and Bryn.

Dr. Debra Holmes

Dr. Debra Holmes grew up in Tucson, Arizona. She attended the University of Arizona and obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Sciences. Her strong desire to become a veterinarian was attained when she was accepted to CSU Veterinary School. She received her DVM from CSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital in 1997. From there, she gained extensive emergency medicine training in Phoenix, AZ. She further honed her skills by working in a small animal practice for another two and a half years. Her professional interests include acupuncture, internal medicine, dermatology and senior pet wellness. Debra loves to read and cook. Debra especially loves to spend time with her family, Mark, Keaton, and Bryn.

Together, Mark and Debra also have two pets. Their cat, Hopper and their bulldog, Gorda, always keep things interesting.