Paws and profits: A pet health platform gets a new leader, a vet school names an associate dean, and other updates

A co-founder of a prominent pet insurance startup has moved into a platform role at one of North America's largest pet health organizations, Meanwhile, a veterinary educator with 40 years of experience has joined a developing school of veterinary medicine, and a multisite healthcare operator has stepped in to lead operations at a growing practice network. Continue reading to learn more about each of these individuals.

Michael Landsberger, general manager, PetPlace

Independence Pet Holdings (IPH) has named Michael Landsberger general manager of PetPlace, a pet health information and microchip registration platform. Landsberger co-founded Pumpkin in 2019 and most recently served as its chief product and growth officer, where he built out the company's pet wellness business from an early-stage startup into a nationally recognized brand. In his new role, he will oversee strategy and growth for PetPlace, which operates under the IPH portfolio alongside brands including AKC Pet Insurance, Figo, and ASPCA Pet Health Insurance.

“I'm thrilled to lead PetPlace and partner with teams who are deeply committed to helping pet parents keep their pets healthy, safe, and protected,” Landsberger said in a company news release.¹ “PetPlace plays a critical role in delivering expert health guidance and reuniting pets with their families if they ever go missing. As a longtime pet owner myself, I look forward to building on that foundation and expanding its reach and impact."

Christina Dougherty, VMD, associate dean for clinical programs and outreach, UMES School of Veterinary Medicine

Earlier this year, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore's (UMES’) School of Veterinary Medicine welcomed Christina ‘Tina’ Dougherty as associate dean for clinical programs and outreach. Dougherty brings 4 decades of veterinary experience spanning clinical practice, academia, and industry, including faculty roles at Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine and the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.

She also held multiple positions at Zoetis over more than a decade and served as recruiting and professional relations director at VCA Animal Hospitals. She currently serves as Pennsylvania's delegate to the AVMA House of Delegates. In her new position, Dougherty will oversee the clinical year program as the school works toward AVMA accreditation. "Building innovative clinical programs and strong community partnerships is essential to preparing practice-ready veterinarians. I look forward to collaborating with faculty, students, and our clinical partners to create meaningful educational experiences and expand access to high-quality veterinary care," she said in a university news release.²

Mayange Kane, MBA, chief operating officer, VetEvolve

Last month, VetEvolve, a network of more than 50 veterinary practices across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, appointed Mayange Kane, MBA, as chief operating officer (COO). Kane comes to the role from Rothman Orthopaedics, where she served as COO and led enterprise strategy and operational performance across a multi-market clinical platform. At VetEvolve, she will work alongside practice leaders to develop operational infrastructure in support of the company's continued growth.

"There's a strong foundation here and a clear intention behind how the organization grows and supports its practices," Kane said in a company news release.³ VetEvolve, founded in 2014 and backed by Varsity Healthcare Partners, supports more than 1100 veterinary team members across its partner hospitals.

References

1. Independence Pet Holdings Promotes Michael Landsberger as New General Manager of PetPlace. News release. Independence Pet Holdings, Inc. March 21, 2026. Accessed April 10, 2026. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/independence-pet-holdings-promotes-michael-landsberger-as-new-general-manager-of-petplace-302730031.html
2. Dougherty Joins UMES School of Veterinary Medicine as Associate Dean for Clinical Programs and Outreach. News release. University of Maryland Eastern Shore. March 13, 2026.
3. VetEvolve Appoints Mayange (May) Kane as Chief Operating Officer. News release. VetEvolve. March 2, 2026.