Meet the Doctors

Dr. David Handel, Owner Dr. David Handel attended Cornell University, where he received his Bachelor's of Science degree, and Auburn University, where he received his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. After graduating in 1991 he completed a rigorous internship in small animal medicine and surgery. He has extensive experience in surgery, internal medicine, dermatology, animal behavior, dental care, and exotic animal medicine. Dr. Handel is a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist and Veterinary Chiropractor as well as a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner. He received acupuncture certification by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society in June 2007. He completed over 150 hours of education in veterinary acupuncture and herbal therapy and passed a rigorous examination to obtain his certification. Dr. Handel is certified in Veterinary Chiropractic by the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association. He successfully completed a 210-hour intensive course at Options for Animals. Dr. Handel received his certification in Canine Rehabilitation after many hours of training. He received his CCRP training from the University of Tennessee. Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley recently appointed Dr. Handel to serve on the Maryland State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. Dr. Handel is also currently President of the Montgomery County Veterinary Medical Association, a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture, the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, and the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association and as well as a contributing member of the Montgomery County Humane Society. In his free time he enjoys running, gardening, and spending time with his family. He has completed several marathons.

Dr. Stephanie B. Dowdy, DVM Dr. Dowdy was born and grew up in Alabama. She graduated from the Auburn College of Veterinary Medicine and has most recently been practicing small animal emergency medicine in Birmingham, Alabama. She is excited to be in Maryland and to return to small animal general practice! Her interests include internal medicine, oncology, behavior, and small animal welfare issues. She has been married for nine years to her husband, a journalist, and has a 13 year old stepdaughter. In her spare time she enjoys exercising, traveling, playing with her five dogs, and spending time with friends and family. She hopes to eventually retire and live on a beach in a constant warm environment!