Dr. Bakun lives in Lakeland, Florida but was born and raised in San Diego, California. She grew up riding and showing western pleasure horses through 4-H, FFA, and the AQHA. She attended California State University, Sacramento and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry minor degree. After completing her bachelor’s degree, she moved to Florida where she graduated with her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine (Go Gators!). During her time at UF CVM she also became certified in equine acupuncture through the Ocala Chi Institute. After graduation, Dr. Bakun returned to Northern California and completed a rigorous internship where she gained extensive experience in emergency medicine, surgery, lameness and sports medicine, reproduction, internal medicine, and preventative care. She worked all around central and southwest Florida before calling Lakeland home.