Dr. Renee Girens

Dr. Renee Girens is a board-certified veterinary cardiologist joining South Sound Veterinary Imaging. Her path to veterinary medicine began after completing her undergraduate degree, when she worked in research and earned her master’s degree. During that time, she discovered a strong interest in veterinary medicine while working alongside laboratory veterinarians and shadowing in the clinic.

Although she initially thought she would pursue laboratory animal medicine, Dr. Girens fell in love with cardiology during veterinary school coursework and clinical rotations. Her passion for the specialty continued to grow throughout residency, where she found deep fulfillment in helping patients with heart disease live longer, more comfortable lives.

Dr. Girens especially enjoys building relationships with pets and their families. She is passionate about helping owners understand their pet’s cardiac disease and working with them to create thoughtful treatment plans, whether medical or surgical. She values the opportunity to support both families and referring veterinarians through collaborative, compassionate cardiac care.

After completing an externship with a cardiologist in Seattle, Dr. Girens fell in love with the Pacific Northwest and knew it was where she wanted to continue her career. She is excited to join the South Sound Veterinary Imaging team and provide outpatient cardiology appointments, mobile cardiology services, and telespecialty support to pets throughout the region.

Outside of work, Dr. Girens enjoys playing video games with friends, spending time outdoors, and exploring the Pacific Northwest. At home, she has Baxter, a sweet and cuddly terrier mix; Benny, a spunky Chihuahua mix; and Buttons, a young cat who thinks he’s a dog and enjoys going outside on a leash to eat grass — though he is still working on the walking part.