Growing up surrounded by pets all his life, Dr. Rich Johnson has found a passion for helping animals. Ultimately, he was inspired by another veterinarian to pursue veterinary medicine at the University of California, Davis: College of Veterinary Medicine, where he graduated with Honors. As the former owner of VCA Country Oaks Animal Hospital, Dr. Johnson embraces and implements a gentle Fear Free approach to every visit. He positively addresses the emotional wellbeing of all patients and their caregivers by reducing fear, anxiety, and stress by bringing treats and toys tailored to each visit. In addition to Fear Free techniques, Dr. Johnson appreciates the problem-solving challenges of veterinary medicine. He believes the most interesting parts of this field are internal medicine and ultrasonography.

Outside VCA Country Oaks, Dr. Johnson enjoys playing competitive bocce ball, fly-fishing, playing the guitar and ukulele, and traveling whenever possible. He is also a huge fan of professional and college sports. He and his wife live in a home filled with global Indigenous and Native American art, along with their four happy, entertaining dogs: Bubba, Earl, Ethel, and Vern. In addition, Jake, the rambunctious and loved chihuahua "helps out" at the hospital seven days a week and returns home for the holidays!