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."

Young male veterinarian wearing green scrubs and a stethoscope, standing against a neutral background.
Dr. Dawson LaBorde, working on calf at the family farm

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.

A young woman with long hair smiling, wearing a plaid shirt sitting outdoors with a black dog with brown eyes and a collar, in front of a metal fence.

Veterinary Assistant

Bridget Trutwin

Hi everyone! 👋 My name is Bridget, and I'm so excited to be joining the team as a Veterinary Assistant!

I grew up in northern Minnesota, where I attended Bemidji State University and graduated with honors with a Bachelor of Science degree. Animals have always been a huge part of my life, and I've loved caring for them for as long as I can remember. Being able to combine that passion with a career is something I'm truly grateful for.

I'm looking forward to continuing to learn and grow in veterinary medicine while helping provide compassionate care to every patient who walks through our doors. I'm excited to get to know our wonderful clients, meet all of your amazing pets, and help make every visit a positive experience.

I'm also incredibly excited to watch the clinic continue to grow and to be part of such a supportive, dedicated team. I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to contribute, learn from those around me, and be part of this journey. I can't wait to meet everyone and all of your furry family members! 🐾💙

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!