Dr. Atkinson received her Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. She then graduated with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Illinois.

Dr. Atkinson has special interests in surgery, preventative care, and client education. She also has an interest in the management and treatment of exotic companion animals, such as small mammals, reptiles, and birds. 

Dr. Atkinson currently has four cats named Zira, Buttons, Oliver, and Tony. She also has a greyhound named Dodger and a bearded dragon named Reptar. Outside of work, Dr. Atkinson enjoys hiking, kayaking, reading, trying new restaurants, and tending to her plant collection.