Dr. Mike Marrinan, DVM

What is your educational and work background?

I received both my Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees from Michigan State University. Veterinary medicine is a second career for me, as I initially received a business degree and was working in commercial finance.

What made you decide to become a vet?

As a teenager, I wanted to be a veterinarian stemming from the love and bond that I shared with my childhood dog… Tootsie. In college, I decided to pursue a career in business.  At that time, I thought this would be a more practical option and would allow for a better means to provide financially for my future family.  Later, I realized that the best thing that I could “provide” my children to encourage them to pursue their dreams was a positive example. So back to school I went.

Why did you decide to join Companion?

I followed my heart.  Quite literally… and joined the group after my wife did. I would like to take credit for the decision, but it was originally her good idea to join the team.

What is the best thing about being a vet?

Helping animals (and their fur-less family members) is very rewarding.   Also everyday is a new adventure and you never know what to expect!

What is one of the most common problems you’ve encountered in pets you treat?

Dental disease. By age 3, over 85% of our patients have some form of active dental disease. Many of pets live out the final years of their lives with significant discomfort from advanced dental disease. In addition, chronic dental disease can cause many different disease conditions in the body. Being proactive with at home and in-clinic dental care is the best way to prevent this from happening to your pet.

Do you have any special interests in veterinary medicine?

Dentistry and surgery.

What is the most unusual pet you have treated?

The case wasn’t as unusual as the post-operative situation was.  As, I once removed an ingested pair of fancy women’s underwear from the intestines of a dog that the wife of the owner said did not belong to her…  that was an awkward moment in the exam room.

What are some of your favorite things to do outside of work?

All things outdoors but some of my favorite things include fishing, hiking and camping. Any time spent with my family and good friends!

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Tied between littering and bullying.

Favorite place to eat?

My parents house. Nothing beats Mom’s home cooking!

Favorite place to visit?

West Michigan. Nothing beats an outdoor adventure with old friends!

Favorite food?

Chocolate- the darker the better!

Favorite movie?

Forrest Gump.   “That’s all I have to say about that.”

Favorite sports team?

Michigan State Spartans

Name something people would be surprised to know about you.

1. I used to wear a suit to work everyday.
2. I own a hound dog named Bocephus.
3. I like to cook almost as much as a I like to eat.