Dr. Brawley is a 1989 graduate of the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine in Manhattan, Kansas. He earned his BS degree in Biology at the University of Utah with an emphasis on fisheries biology and aquatic ecosystems. He completed a Master of Science degree in Wildlife Biology at the University of Montana and worked on a doctorate at the University of Wyoming before deciding to change careers.

After graduation from veterinary school, Dr. Brawley practiced in Portland, Oregon and in Dallas, Texas prior to moving to the Puget Sound area. He actively pursues continuing education to maintain proficiency in internal medicine, diagnostics, abdominal surgery, orthopedic surgery, behavior, dermatology, and oncology. His special interests include surgery and exotic pets, especially ferrets, rabbits, "pocket pets" and reptiles. Dr. Brawley also has experience working with purebred dog and cat fanciers.