Dr. Mitch Robbins is joining Mission Compassion Paws as a Veterinary Medical Advisor. He brings more than 30 years of surgical experience and a strong dedication to animal welfare. As a board-certified small animal surgeon, Dr. Robbins has been Chief of Surgery at Veterinary Specialty Center (VSC) since 2007, leading one of the Midwest’s top referral hospitals.

A Champion for Rescue Animals

Dr. Robbins has supported the rescue community in Chicago for many years. He started a surgical service at VSC that offers free and low-cost advanced care to local rescue groups. This program helps animals moving from shelters to homes get the medical care they need to do well.

Dr. Robbins and the team at Veterinary Specialty Center have helped many MCP rescues, giving advanced care to pets who need it most.

Clinical Expertise & Advocacy

As an advisor to Mission Compassion Paws, Dr. Robbins shares his deep knowledge in several areas:

• Complex Surgical Management: He has special experience in soft tissue, cancer, and orthopedic surgeries.

• Minimally Invasive Techniques: He is skilled in laparoscopy and thoracoscopy, which help patients recover faster.

• Community-Minded Care: With his leadership, VSC built a LEED Silver-certified hospital and became the first employee-owned (ESOP) specialty center. These steps show a strong commitment to social responsibility and caring for the whole community.

Beyond the Operating Room

Dr. Robbins’ commitment to animals reaches throughout Chicagoland and beyond. He serves on the Medical Advisory Boards for the Shedd Aquarium and the Chicago Zoological Society, helping care for many different species. 

He has also taught at the Chicagoland Small Animal Hospital of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, training future veterinarians, interns, and residents. Dr. Robbins often gives talks at continuing education events for veterinarians and technicians.