Dr. Matthew Baechtel is a graduate of the University of Virginia and earned his veterinary degree from the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine in 2000. After several years in small animal practice, he expanded his expertise in emergency and critical care for seven years. Now, with over a decade at VCA Chancellor's family day practice, Dr. Baechtel dedicates himself to promoting the human-animal bond through wellness education and proactive disease prevention.

With a particular focus on cardiology and dermatology, Dr. Baechtel is passionate about guiding pet owners in fostering healthy, meaningful relationships with their pets. At home, he shares a vibrant life with his wife and their two golden retrievers. Though their three grown children have 'flown the nest' and started their own journeys, they remain a close-knit family and enjoy frequent get-togethers. Outside the hospital, he enjoys hiking, traveling, outdoor adventures, and a good round of golf whenever possible.

Dr. Baechtel notes, "I’m dedicated to strengthening the human-animal bond, helping pet parents be the best they can be in building lifelong connections with their beloved pets.”