Dr. Natalie Harrington

DVM

Dr. Natalie Harrington joined our practice as an Associate Veterinarian in July 2026, after earning her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Washington State University. Her passion for both medicine and helping others is the driving force behind her work, and she enjoys building connections while supporting the human-animal bond. 

Dr. Harrington’s versatile experience includes work in a clinic, on a transfusion team, and in a radiology department, and she is especially interested in animal behavior and soft tissue surgery. Her empathetic, transparent, and encouraging communication style, as well as her strong work ethic, enthusiasm, and positive attitude, make Dr. Harrington a wonderful addition to our team. 

With a commitment to individualized care, Dr. Harrington emphasizes the importance of a patient’s mental well-being in their overall health. She is a Cat Friendly Veterinarian® through the Feline Veterinary Medical Association and is in the process of completing her Fear Free certification. Dr. Harrington approaches every case with compassion, honesty, and curiosity; she believes that prioritizing patient comfort and minimizing fear leads to better outcomes, safer clinic environments, and deeper trust with clients. 

Dr. Harrington is thrilled to be in a dynamic role where every day is different, alongside a collaborative team of warm, kind, and professional individuals. “I provide well-rounded, holistic care to my patients, including preventive medicine, pain management, nutritional guidance, and behavioral support,” she shared. “I know how important my own pet’s health is to me, and I am honored to contribute to that for others. I look forward to building long-term connections with pets, families, and the local community.” 

Education

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University 

Bachelor of Science; Evolution, Ecology, Conservation; University of Washington

Volunteer Work

Dr. Harrington’s passion for supporting her community goes beyond her career. She has volunteered at the Burke Museum Ornithology Collection, assisting with the museum’s vast collection of bird specimens. She also spent a summer with the Birds of Prey Northwest, an organization that promotes public education and medical care for wild raptors. 

Her volunteer portfolio expands beyond her veterinary medicine background, as Dr. Harrington has also volunteered her time at the Spokane Art Salvage, a nonprofit Creative Reuse Center that repurposes waste into creative materials, and with the soccer team in the Unified Sports Soccer Special Olympics

Home Life

Dr. Harrington enjoys spending her free time outside — hiking, camping, and tide pooling. She also enjoys creative pursuits, including painting, cooking, and sewing. As a foodie and a hobbyist with many interests,  she considers herself a “try anything once” kind of person.

When she isn’t at work, Dr. Harrington is often still surrounded by animals, with four pets who each bring their own unique quirks to her home. Her two black cats are Boki, who is anxious but chatty, and Howl, who is always looking for trouble. While Mercy, the Labrador retriever, enjoys holding hands, late-night snacks, and long walks at the beach. Vesper, the tabby cat, has been deemed the “fun police” and ensures order in the house. 

Natalie Harrington, DVM at Rainier Veterinary Hospital