The Daily Sun-Up The Life Lessons Inside Kevin Fitzgerald’s “It Started with a Turtle”
Nov 7, 2025
Veterinarian and author Kevin Fitzgerald shares his journey from a childhood turtle named Sam to a celebrated career in animal care. He recounts his wild days as a Boulder bouncer and touring with rock legends, revealing life lessons from the road. Kevin discusses the challenges of veterinary medicine, the captivating origins of Emergency Vets on Animal Planet, and his surprising turn to stand-up comedy. He also emphasizes the urgency of conservation and the importance of protecting biodiversity, showcasing his commitment to the planet.
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Childhood Turtle That Sparked A Calling
- Kevin Fitzgerald tells how his grandmother released a dime-store turtle at the zoo and a snapper ate it, which haunted him as a child.
- That memory framed his lifelong drive to help animals and shaped his career choice.
From Boulder Door Guy To Touring With Stars
- Fitzgerald recounts working as a bouncer and touring with major acts like the Rolling Stones and Parliament Funkadelic.
- Those years exposed him to regional America and taught crowd control, confidence, and travel-savvy lessons.
Veterinary Medicine Is A Demanding Blend
- Veterinary medicine blends science, compassion for animals, and connection with people, making it uniquely demanding.
- Fitzgerald calls it a "harsh mistress" but rewarding across decades of practice.
