Chris Carpenter DVM MBA

Founder and President

A licensed veterinarian, published children’s author & illustrator, entrepreneur, and speaker, Dr. Chris Carpenter is the expert on introducing children to the veterinary profession.

“Unlike many professionals, the majority of veterinarians made their career decision before they reached the age of 13.” Dr. Carpenter says. “A parent and/or teacher of a child who expresses an interest in becoming a veterinarian should take it very seriously. A future vet is a very passionate and determined individual.  Chances are very high that this interest will stay with them.”

It was Dr. Carpenter’s passion for veterinary medicine that motivated him to explore so many different areas of the profession. He has practiced medicine as a small-animal doctor, managed a region of veterinary hospitals, cared for military working dogs as a Captain in the Army Veterinary Corps during the first Gulf War, worked for Fortune 500 companies such as Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson to launch cutting-edge medicines for both humans and pets, and written books for children on veterinary medicine.

Dr. Carpenter is probably best known for founding Ichabod Ink which has become the “go-to” website for children who want to be veterinarians and their parents. Ichabod Ink is the first and only site dedicated to providing education and entertainment for future veterinarians and their families.

Dr Carpenter is also the author of Lilly’s Heart, the first book to teach young children the science of a veterinary medicine in a fun and colorful way. In the book, children are introduced to Ichabod the big, friendly Newfoundland dog who helps them understand the science of a veterinary case. Veterinary reviewers have called Lilly’s heart “A valuable tool in the early education of future veterinarians”. 

Dr. Carpenter holds a license to practice veterinary medicine in multiple states throughout the US. He is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the National Science Teachers Association. In addition to his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the Auburn College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Carpenter holds a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from the University of Florida and a Masters of Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University.

Raised as a “military brat” who grew up all over the country, Dr. Carpenter now lives in St. Augustine, Florida with his wife, daughter and a goofy labradoodle named Jackson. In his spare time, you will find him taking in the Florida sun as he surfs, road bikes, swims or spends time with Jackson at the neighborhood dog park.