Dr. Michelle Oakley is a name well-recognized in the world of veterinary medicine, especially when it comes to wildlife. Known for her dynamic presence on Nat Geo Wild’s “Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet”, she has earned global recognition for her fearless and compassionate work with animals in the remote areas of the Yukon and beyond.
Quick Bio Of Dr. Michelle Oakley
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michelle Oakley |
| Profession | Wildlife Veterinarian, TV Personality |
| Famous For | “Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet” on Nat Geo Wild |
| Birthplace | Munster, Indiana, USA |
| Date of Birth | September 16, 1969 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 55 years old |
| Education | University of Michigan; Atlantic Veterinary College |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Husband | Shane Oakley |
| Children | Three daughters – Sierra, Maya, Willow |
| Current Residence | Haines, Alaska |
| TV Debut | 2014 |
| Years Active | 2000 – Present |
Early Life and Background
Born on September 16, 1969, in Munster, Indiana, Michelle Oakley grew up surrounded by nature, which deeply influenced her life choices. From a young age, she had a natural love for animals and a deep curiosity about wildlife. Her Midwestern upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and a love for the outdoors, both of which would become crucial in her later career.
Her childhood memories are filled with moments spent exploring nature and reading about wild animals. These experiences planted the seed for a future that would revolve around saving and caring for animals, especially those that couldn’t help themselves.
Educational Journey
Michelle Oakley began her academic journey at the University of Michigan, where she earned a degree in zoology. During this time, she took part in a wildlife program in Yukon, Canada — a pivotal experience that would later inspire her entire career direction. Her love for Yukon and wildlife only grew stronger, prompting her to pursue further education.
To become a certified veterinarian, she attended the Atlantic Veterinary College at the University of Prince Edward Island, where she earned her doctorate in veterinary medicine. Her education gave her the clinical skills she needed, while her field experiences sharpened her instincts for treating animals in remote areas.
Career Beginnings
After completing her education, Michelle Oakley began her professional journey by working with both domestic and wild animals. Her first major roles included assisting with wildlife research projects and working at local veterinary clinics. But it was her return to Yukon that marked the beginning of a unique and groundbreaking career.
She worked closely with the Yukon government’s Environment Department, focusing on wildlife health and conservation. Traveling across vast stretches of wilderness, often in challenging conditions, she treated bears, moose, eagles, wolves, and many more species — many of them in the wild, often using snowmobiles, ATVs, or even helicopters to reach them.
Becoming a Wildlife Veterinarian
Her passion for wildlife set her apart from typical veterinary paths. Unlike most vets who work in clinics, Dr. Michelle Oakley took her practice directly into the wild. Her approach was hands-on and fearless. She didn’t just treat animals; she tracked them, tranquilized them safely, and provided field-based surgeries and care.
This unique method not only brought her into contact with rare and endangered animals but also earned her widespread respect within conservation circles. Her ability to work under pressure, often in extreme weather, made her a go-to expert for wildlife emergencies in the Yukon and Alaska regions.
“Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet” – TV Career
In 2014, her real-life adventures made their way onto television with “Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet” on Nat Geo Wild. The show quickly gained popularity for its raw and honest portrayal of her work with wildlife in some of the harshest and most remote environments.
The series follows Dr. Oakley as she diagnoses and treats animals ranging from farm pets to endangered wildlife. Viewers are drawn to her approachable demeanor, deep empathy, and fearless attitude. Over the years, the show has built a loyal fanbase and has become a global platform for raising awareness about wildlife conservation.
Michelle Oakley’s Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Michelle Oakley is 55 years old, yet her energy and dedication are as strong as ever. Standing around 5 feet 9 inches tall, she carries herself with strength and confidence. Her signature look often includes her work boots, outdoor gear, and a stethoscope around her neck — practical and professional.
Her appearance reflects her lifestyle — healthy, outdoorsy, and hands-on. While she rarely focuses on style in a traditional sense, her natural look and calm presence resonate deeply with viewers and animal lovers alike.
Personal Life and Relationships
Michelle Oakley is married to Shane Oakley, a Yukon native and firefighter. Their relationship began during her first visit to the Yukon during college, and their connection to the region played a significant role in their life choices. The couple has made Haines, Alaska their home, living in close connection with nature and raising their family amid the wild beauty of the region.
Shane has always been a supportive partner, often helping with animal rescues and logistical work, and together they’ve built a life around their shared love for the wilderness.
Children and Family Life
Dr. Oakley and Shane are proud parents to three daughters — Sierra, Maya, and Willow. The family dynamic is not just close-knit but also collaborative. Sierra, the eldest, has often been seen assisting her mother on the show and is currently studying to become a veterinarian herself, following in her mother’s footsteps.
Their family life reflects values of compassion, education, and adventure. Whether it’s helping with animal care or hiking through Yukon’s wilderness, the Oakleys are truly a team when it comes to living and working in harmony with nature.
Challenges and Achievements
The journey hasn’t always been easy. Dr. Oakley has faced dangerous situations involving wild animals, extreme weather, and limited medical resources. But through it all, she has shown resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to animal care.
Among her many achievements, one stands out: her role in bringing veterinary care to areas that previously had none. Her work has directly impacted both animal welfare and public awareness, bridging the gap between veterinary science and wildlife conservation in remote regions.
Her Role in Wildlife Conservation
Dr. Oakley’s career goes beyond treating animals — she plays a crucial part in preserving biodiversity. She collaborates with government agencies, conservationists, and local communities to monitor animal health, control disease outbreaks, and ensure the survival of endangered species.
Her work often includes tagging and tracking wildlife, studying environmental impacts on animal populations, and promoting sustainable human-wildlife interactions. This deep involvement in conservation science makes her a pioneer among modern wildlife veterinarians.
Social Media and Public Presence
In addition to her television work, Michelle Oakley uses social media to share educational content, behind-the-scenes moments, and conservation tips. Her Instagram and Facebook profiles attract thousands of followers who are eager to learn more about wildlife care and veterinary science.
She uses her platform not just for visibility but for public education, particularly among young animal lovers who look up to her as a role model. Whether it’s a post about rescuing an injured owl or a video explaining moose behavior, her content is always informative and engaging.
Legacy and Future Plans
Dr. Michelle Oakley’s legacy is built on compassion, courage, and an unwavering dedication to animals. Her work has inspired countless aspiring veterinarians and wildlife advocates around the world. Looking ahead, she hopes to continue mentoring future vets, expand her outreach programs, and further contribute to global wildlife conservation efforts with her show still running strong and her veterinary mission evolving, the future looks bright — not just for Dr. Oakley, but for the animals and communities she serves.
FAQs About Dr. Michelle Oakley
Who is Dr. Michelle Oakley?
Dr. Michelle Oakley is a wildlife veterinarian best known for her TV show “Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet” on Nat Geo Wild. She treats wild and domestic animals in remote parts of Alaska and Canada.
Where is Dr. Oakley from?
She was born in Munster, Indiana, USA, but currently lives in Haines, Alaska, where she works with wildlife across the Yukon and surrounding areas.
What is Michelle Oakley’s age?
As of 2025, Dr. Oakley is 55 years old. She was born on September 16, 1969.
Is Dr. Oakley a real veterinarian?
Yes, she is a licensed and practicing veterinarian with a degree from the Atlantic Veterinary College.
Is Dr. Oakley married?
Yes, Dr. Oakley is married to Shane Oakley, a Yukon firefighter. They have three daughters together.
How many children does Dr. Oakley have?
She has three daughters: Sierra, Maya, and Willow. Sierra has even assisted her mother on the show.
What kind of animals does she treat?
Dr. Oakley treats a wide range of animals, including moose, bears, wolves, eagles, and domestic pets in rural areas.
Where is “Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet” filmed?
The show is primarily filmed in the Yukon Territory and around Haines, Alaska.
When did her TV show start?
“Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet” premiered in 2014 on Nat Geo Wild and continues to air with new episodes.
Does Dr. Oakley do conservation work?
Yes, she plays a key role in wildlife conservation, disease control, and animal rescue in collaboration with local agencies.
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