Who We Are
Mission:
"We provide comprehensive veterinary care for companion and production animals, crafting clinical solutions and lasting relationships rooted in biblical principles of integrity, compassion, and excellence."
Core Values
Integrity
No Gossip
Relationships
Compassion
Service
Grace
At Living Waters Veterinary Clinic, our six core values—Integrity, No Gossip, Relationships, Compassion, Service, and Grace—are the practical framework we use to make every decision, from medical treatment plans to how we handle difficult conversations. These aren't just abstract ideals; they are essential because they protect both our patients and our team, ensuring we provide high-quality, affordable care without burning out or compromising our ethics. By prioritizing truth over comfort, acting with clear-headed compassion, and treating every interaction as a long-term investment in trust, we create a sustainable environment where excellence is the standard and everyone feels respected. Ultimately, these values matter because they allow us to serve our community with consistency and heart, knowing that we are building a practice that lasts for decades, not just for today.
About Dr. Dawson LaBorde
Owner and Veterinarian
I grew up on a farm just outside Pierz, Minnesota, where being surrounded by animals and hands-on work sparked an early love for veterinary medicine. I was homeschooled through high school and graduated in 2014. That same year, I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Thomas Edison State University. I went on to study at Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where I earned my DVM in 2019. Since then, I’ve been practicing in central Minnesota, serving both rural and urban communities.
With a strong foundation in mixed animal medicine, I care for a wide range of patients—from household pets to livestock and everything in between. In addition to general practice, I spent three years working as a relief emergency veterinarian at BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital in St. Cloud. That experience deepened my skills in critical care, urgent cases, and surgery. Whether I’m out on a farm call or seeing pets in the clinic, I strive to offer practical solutions, clear communication, and compassionate care to people and their animals.
Outside of veterinary medicine, I enjoy a life rooted in the outdoors and family and faith. I spend my free time in the outdoors, refereeing hockey, and working with my family on our beefalo farm. I’m also an active member and volunteer at our local church. Most of all, I value time with my wife, our children, and our dogs. Whether I’m tending a bonsai tree, tinkering on a car, or hiking through Minnesota’s woods, I’m always learning something new—and always looking for ways to serve where I’m needed.
Veterinary Technician
Ashlyn Monson-Kalway
Ashlyn grew up in the Buckman, MN area surrounded by horses, cattle, dogs, and cats, which helped spark her lifelong passion for animal care. She graduated from the University of Minnesota Crookston with a BS in Animal Science and a minor in Agricultural Business, and has been working as a veterinary technician since the spring of 2020. Now living back in Buckman with her husband, three dogs, and a chinchilla, she brings sincere dedication to every patient she meets. Ashlyn has a natural way of putting animals at ease and consistently strives to provide exceptional care while ensuring clients feel supported and informed.
Future Plans
We currently have the front part of the clinic completed!!!
We are continuing to work to finish the rest of the clinic including x-ray, surgery, and exam rooms, we look forward to seeing you all at the clinic as we go!