Veterinarian
Dr. Mark Caldwell – A Lifelong Passion for Veterinary Medicine
Born and raised in Arizona, Dr. Mark Caldwell has been immersed in veterinary medicine for as long as he can remember. With a father who served as a small animal veterinarian in Tempe and a grandfather who worked as a veterinarian for the U.S. Government, caring for animals runs deep in his family’s legacy. Some of his earliest childhood memories include tagging along with his dad at work, learning the ropes before he was even tall enough to reach the exam table.
Education and Early Experience
Dr. Caldwell earned his bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Science with a minor in Chemistry from the University of Arizona, where he also spent three years as a member of the TriCats, the university’s triathlon team. During his undergraduate years, he gained hands-on experience in Thoroughbred breeding and foaling, further fueling his interest in animal care.
Following graduation, he attended Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine—the same school his father attended. For two years, he lived and worked at KSU’s Large Animal Research Center, often spending late nights, weekends, and holidays caring for the university’s equine teaching herd as well as dogs, pigs, cattle, deer, and other animals involved in research studies.
His dedication and skill earned him graduation with honors, along with notable awards, including:
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Francis Lucille Koss Memorial Award for excellence in both large and small animal medicine and surgery
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Society of Theriogenology Award for proficiency in reproduction medicine
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Membership in Phi Zeta, the national veterinary honor society
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Recognition as a Veterinary Scholar at the American Royal Livestock Show in 2014
A Career Built on Versatility and Expertise
After veterinary school, Dr. Caldwell honed his skills in small animal hospitals across Colorado and Nevada before returning to Arizona in 2017. Here, he worked as a private contractor in multiple clinics—an experience that not only expanded his medical expertise but also led him to meet his future wife and business partner, Dr. Kristin Fornara.
Today, Dr. Caldwell is known for his proficiency in internal medicine, surgery, preventative care, and diagnostic lab work interpretation. He is a proud member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and is deeply committed to client education, believing that informed pet owners make the best decisions for their pets. As he often explains, the Latin root of “Doctor” is Docere—meaning “to teach”—and education is a core part of every appointment.
Life Beyond the Clinic
Outside of work, Dr. Caldwell enjoys life in Phoenix with Dr. Fornara, their two young sons, four dogs, one cat, and a flock of ten chickens. He’s an avid cook who loves using his grills and wok, a passionate traveler, and a SCUBA diver. While his skydiving days are behind him, his adventurous spirit is alive and well.
Together with Dr. Fornara, he actively participates in international animal volunteer work, helping animals in need across the globe. Their efforts have been recognized with the honor of being Commissioned Kentucky Colonels by the Governor of Kentucky—a testament to their dedication to service.
What is your background?
I was actually born and raised here in the Valley, and I am a third-generation veterinarian. My father was actually a mobile veterinarian growing up, so I've essentially been surrounded by this business my entire life.
Where did you receive your education?
For undergrad, I went to the University of Arizona, and for veterinary school, I attended Kansas State University. While at Kansas State for two years, I lived and worked at the Large Animal Research Center, where we took care of many different animals for research studies. Upon graduation, I graduated with honors and received a few awards.
What awards and honors have you received?
I received the Francis Lucille Koss Memorial Award for demonstrating proficiency in both large and small animal medicine and surgery. I was given the Society of Theriogenology Proficiency in Theriogenology Award, which is a fancy word for animal reproduction. I was elected to membership of Phi Zeta, which is the honor society for veterinarians, and in 2014, I was a veterinary scholar at the American Royal Livestock Show.
What is your professional passion?
I would say that my favorite part about veterinary medicine is just being able to make a positive difference in people and animals' day. Helping them out really puts a smile on my face, and I couldn't be happier that I get to do this as part of my job.
Do you have any certifications or personal interests?
I carry certifications with the American Veterinary Medical Association. In my personal time, I am an advanced open-water scuba diver. I also carry certifications with the American Sailing Association with 101, 103, and 104, which cover keelboat sailing, coastal cruising, and bareboat cruising. Additionally, I have a Category A skydiving license with the United States Parachute Association, but I have lapsed currency on that as I haven't done it for a few years since I had kids.
Can you tell us about your volunteer work?
I also like to volunteer in my free time. One of the things that I'm very proud of is that Dr. Fornara and I, a couple of years ago, went down to Mexico where we donated our time and supplies to treat transmissible venereal tumor in dogs. This is essentially an STD that can cause cancer, but fortunately, it can be treated with medications that we provide. For those actions, we were commissioned Kentucky Colonels by the standing governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, so we're very, very proud of that.
What do you enjoy in your personal life?
I love spending time with my two boys, Jack and Henry, as well as with my wife. When I'm able to travel, I absolutely do, and if you can't find me fishing, then you can usually find me behind one of my grills. I have plenty of them.