Dr. Natalie Lucca

Natalie's dream of being a veterinarian started at a young age. She has always loved caring for and being around animals but, instead of jumping right into pursuing veterinary medicine, Natalie explored many other aspects of animal knowledge and care prior to becoming a veterinarian. Keep reading below to learn more about Natalie's journey to Homeward Bound Animal Clinic

Natalie Lucca (Watson) was born and raised right here in Southeast Rochester, graduating from Mayo High School. She worked as a kennel attendant and veterinary assistant at local clinics around this time. After completing her two year generals at Rochester Community and Technical College she transferred to the University of Minnesota to pursue a Bachelors in Wildlife Management on the Saint Paul, MN campus.

While living in the Twin Cities, Natalie was able to partake in many opportunities to learn more about animals and their habitats. Those opportunities included wild bird banding, live trapping, wildlife research studies and even conducting her own wildlife study in Costa Rica. Outside of school she focused her time learning how to train animals using positive reinforcement and clicker training. She has applied these training techniques to interesting animals such as bears, tigers, woodchucks and pigs.

After completing her Bachelor's degree, Natalie pursued a veterinary technology degree, becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician upon completion. Using her degree, knowledge, and experience she began teaching at the school and eventually became the Program Chair of the Veterinary Technology Program, overseeing 3 different campuses at different times. Additionally during this time, Natalie took classes to obtain a Master's Degree in Business Administration.

When the decision came to attend veterinary school, Natalie fell in love with St. George University in Grenada. The school is AVMA accredited, the same accreditation as US based schools, but is located in the beautiful Caribbean. In addition to the traditional veterinary curriculum, Natalie explored fish medicine, exotic animal medicine, dolphin and sea lion research and wildlife rehabilitation.

Since graduation and prior to founding Homeward Bound, Natalie worked as an associate veterinarian in Rochester and the Twin Cities. She has amassed knowledge and experience working as a relief veterinarian in many different clinics as well as her own home based business during the pandemic.

Natalie opened Homeward Bound Animal Clinic for many reasons. In addition to wanting to explore business ownership, Natalie wanted to continue to be a resource to pets and pet parents of Rochester and the surrounding area. She and her team provide low stress veterinary visits to pets, provide ample education to pet owners and empower her staff to use their skills and knowledge at the highest level.

At home, Natalie has 2 dogs, 2 cats, 2 chickens and 1 amazing son who all keep her very busy. As a family they enjoy bike riding, camping, waterparks, video games and board games.