Rhea Bakshi

Rhea is a third-year veterinary student at the University of Pennsylvania, where she also earned her undergraduate degree in Biology. Originally from Potomac, Maryland, Rhea has been passionate about animal rescue for as long as she can remember—she’s wanted to be a vet since she was four years old and never outgrew the dream.

Rhea began volunteering with PetConnect Rescue in 2017, leading humane education initiatives and helping vaccinate foster kittens and cats for the organization. Since moving to Philadelphia for college and vet school, she has continued her involvement in rescue through local shelter work and TNR efforts.

Rhea is especially passionate about shelter medicine, senior pet care, and making quality veterinary support more accessible for rescue animals. She currently lives in Philly with her two rescue cats, Mr. Moo and Ollie — who have been her constant companions and (reluctant) practice patients during vet school.