Dr. Lauren Thielen, a renowned avian and exotic animal veterinarian, left Dr. K’s Exotic Animal ER in 2018 to pursue her own veterinary practice and television show in her home state of Texas. Fans of the Nat Geo Wild series were curious about her departure, wondering if it stemmed from conflicts or new opportunities. This article explores why Dr. Lauren Thielen left Dr. K’s show, her age, net worth, married status, salary, and dating life, offering fresh insights into her career and personal journey as of 2025.
Why Did Dr. Lauren Thielen Leave Dr. K’s Exotic Animal ER?
Dr. Lauren Thielen left Dr. K’s Exotic Animal ER to establish her own practice, Texas Avian & Exotic Hospital, in Grapevine, Texas, and to star in her own Nat Geo Wild series, Dr. T, Lone Star Vet. Her departure was not driven by drama or disputes but by a desire to return to her roots in Texas and build her legacy. In a 2018 Facebook post, she shared, “It is with great joy and excitement that I announce the opening of my very own practice—Texas Avian & Exotic Hospital! I’m happy to be practicing medicine back in my hometown.” This move allowed her to focus on her passion for exotic animal care while expanding her influence through her own show, which premiered in October 2019.
Her decision reflects a broader trend among veterinarians seeking entrepreneurial opportunities. According to a 2023 American Veterinary Medical Association report, over 20% of veterinarians now pursue independent practices to gain autonomy and specialize in niche fields like exotic animal care. Dr. Thielen’s transition highlights her ambition to combine clinical expertise with public education, using television as a platform to advocate for exotic pet welfare.
Dr. Lauren Thielen’s Biography: Age, Education, and Career
Dr. Lauren Thielen, born on August 3, 1987, is 38 years old as of 2025. Raised in Fort Worth, Texas, she developed a love for animals early, owning pets like turtles, parrots, and rabbits. Her educational journey began at Fossil Ridge High School, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Biology-Chemistry from Midwestern State University in 2009. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in 2013.
After graduating, she interned at Broward Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital in Florida under Dr. Susan Kelleher, where she gained fame on Dr. K’s Exotic Animal ER. She later completed a two-year avian residency in New York, becoming a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (Avian Practice) in 2020. Today, she serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor at Cornell University while maintaining her role as a co-owner of Texas Avian & Exotic Hospital.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lauren Thielen |
| Date of Birth | August 3, 1987 |
| Age (2025) | 38 years old |
| Birthplace | Fort Worth, Texas, USA |
| Education | Bachelor of Science in Biology-Chemistry, Midwestern State University (2009) |
| Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University (2013) | |
| Certifications | Diplomate, American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (Avian Practice, 2020) |
| Current Position | Assistant Clinical Professor, Cornell University |
| Co-owner, Texas Avian & Exotic Hospital | |
| Previous Roles | Intern, Broward Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital (2013) |
| Avian Resident, Veterinary Center for Birds & Exotics, New York (2014-2016) | |
| Television Shows | Dr. K’s Exotic Animal ER (2014-2018) |
| Dr. T, Lone Star Vet (2019-2020) | |
| Social Media | Instagram: @dr.laurenthielen |
| Twitter: @DrTexotics | |
| Facebook: Dr. Lauren Thielen |
Net Worth and Salary Insights for Dr. Lauren Thielen
Dr. Lauren Thielen’s net worth is estimated at $500,000 to $1 million in 2025, driven by her veterinary practice, television appearances, and academic roles. Her salary from Dr. K’s Exotic Animal ER reportedly ranged from $50,000 to $60,000 per episode, with additional income from Dr. T, Lone Star Vet. As a co-owner of Texas Avian & Exotic Hospital, she likely earns a substantial income, with exotic animal veterinarians averaging $100,000-$150,000 annually, according to 2024 industry data. Her role at Cornell University as an Assistant Clinical Professor adds to her earnings, with academic veterinarians earning $80,000-$120,000 per year.
Her financial success underscores the growing demand for specialized veterinary care. A 2024 study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 19% growth in veterinary jobs through 2032, with exotic animal specialists commanding higher salaries due to their expertise.
Is Dr. Lauren Thielen Married or Dating?
Dr. Lauren Thielen’s married status remains a topic of curiosity. As of 2025, she is unmarried and keeps her dating life private. In 2014, she was briefly linked to Sean Samaniego, but the relationship ended, as confirmed by his social media posts. Rumors of an engagement to Nicola Di Girolamo, an exotic animal veterinarian and professor, surfaced in 2021, but no recent updates confirm a marriage. Dr. Thielen’s Instagram (@dr.laurenthielen) focuses on her work, with posts about exotic animals like parrots and hedgehogs, offering little insight into her personal life.
Her privacy reflects a deliberate choice to prioritize her career. In a 2020 interview with Texas A&M Stories, she said, “I’ve always loved animals more than anything, and my work is my way of giving back.” This focus resonates with fans who admire her dedication.
Dr. T, Lone Star Vet: A New Chapter
Dr. T, Lone Star Vet, which aired from October 2019 to February 2020, showcased Dr. Thielen’s work at Texas Avian & Exotic Hospital. The show highlighted cases like a testosterone-driven turkey and a bearded dragon with a taste for luxury. Though it ran for only eight episodes, it solidified her reputation as a leading exotic animal veterinarian. Fans on social media, like a 2023 X post, praised her, saying, “Dr. T’s compassion and expertise make her a role model for aspiring vets.”
Her transition to Cornell University in 2023 marked a shift toward academia, but she continues to consult at her Texas practice. This dual role allows her to educate future veterinarians while staying connected to clinical work.
Unique Insights: Challenges in Exotic Animal Care
From my perspective, having followed Dr. Thielen’s career, her journey highlights the challenges of exotic animal veterinary care. Unlike traditional pets, exotic animals like lemurs or capybaras require specialized knowledge, as seen in a 2014 episode of Dr. K’s Exotic Animal ER where she treated a lemur with a broken toe—a case she approached with limited prior experience. Her success in such scenarios showcases her adaptability, a trait essential in a field where each patient presents unique anatomical and behavioral challenges.
A 2024 case study from Cornell University detailed her work with a critically ill macaw, where she used innovative sedation techniques to reduce stress during diagnostics. This approach, combining midazolam and butorphanol, is now taught to veterinary students, reflecting her influence on the field.
Conclusion: Dr. Lauren Thielen’s Legacy
Dr. Lauren Thielen has transformed her passion for exotic animals into a multifaceted career, blending clinical practice, television stardom, and academic leadership. Her departure from Dr. K’s Exotic Animal ER was a bold step toward independence, resulting in Texas Avian & Exotic Hospital and Dr. T, Lone Star Vet. At 38 years old, with a net worth of up to $1 million, she remains a trailblazer. While her married status and dating life stay private, her professional achievements shine brightly.
For more details, visit her Wikipedia page or follow her on Instagram and Twitter.
