Robert Buntz, D.V.M.

Dr. Robert Buntz joined the Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2025 as a Clinical Assistant Professor on the Shelter Medicine team. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Colorado State University in 2020 and holds a bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from Arizona State University (2009).

Before joining Midwestern, Dr. Buntz worked as a shelter veterinarian at the Hawaiian Humane Society and served as Interim Medical Director at the Oahu SPCA. He also has a background in small animal emergency medicine.

A former U.S. Army Special Forces Medic with the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Dr. Buntz brings a unique perspective to veterinary education, integrating his experience in trauma medicine and field care into the shelter setting.

Dr. Buntz is passionate about advancing shelter medicine through evidence-based research, disaster and emergency response, spectrum of care approaches, and high-quality high-volume (HQHV) surgery. His academic interests also include blood transfusion medicine and austere care strategies. He is dedicated to mentoring students as they develop surgical proficiency and explore the vital role of shelter and community medicine in the profession.