About Our Vets in Newark, DE | First State Urgent Vet

Dr. Amanda Lawrie

Chief Medical Officer

Dr. Lawrie grew up in Wilmington Delaware. She received her undergraduate degree in Animal Science from the University of Delaware in 2003. Dr. Lawrie then traveled down south to attend veterinary school at the University of Georgia. Upon graduation in 2007 Dr. Lawrie completed a rotating small animal internship at The Animal Medical Center in New York City.

Dr. Lawrie resides in North Wilmington with her family which includes her husband and their three children, Jackson, Finlay, and Isla. They have 2 very spoiled dogs at home, Penguin, a mixed breed, and Goose, a Golden Retriever.

In her spare time, Dr. Lawrie enjoys distance running, spending time with her family at the Delaware beaches, and watching Georgia football (Go Dawgs!).

Dr. Danielle Downs

Medical Director

Dr. Danielle Downs has over a decade of experience in general medicine and surgery, working with dogs and cats in the Delaware area. Dr. Downs received her undergraduate degree from the University of Delaware and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from the University of Georgia. Dr. Downs worked in molecular biology research for UD and volunteered a year of service with AmeriCorp. Special interests include working dog medicine, wilderness triage, and palliative care.

Active on multiple boards, Dr. Downs has served as the President and Vice President on the Delaware Board of Veterinary Medicine and as the Veterinary Chair on the Delaware Controlled Substances Advisory Council. Dr. Downs shares her passion of veterinary medicine by writing, lecturing, and teaching. She is published in Wilderness Medicine Magazine and is an Adjunct Assistant Professor (remote) for the University of Arizona Veterinary School. Dr. Downs is certified as a Fear Free Professional Veterinarian and has been trained by American Humane in Emergency Disaster Pet Sheltering.

Dr. Downs resides in Delaware with her husband, daughter, and multiple rescue dogs, cats, and backyard chickens. Her family also co-owns and manages a small farm in Middletown, Delaware.

Dr. Rachel Mester

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

Dr. Rachel Mester brings a wealth of veterinary experience and a passion for animal care to First State Urgent Vet. Originally from Staten Island, New York, she spent time in Conshohocken, PA before returning to Delaware, where she now calls home. Dr. Mester obtained her undergraduate degree from the University of Delaware and earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Florida.

With a background spanning small animal general practice, urgent care, and emergency medicine, Dr. Mester is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to every furry patient she meets. She is particularly proud to be the fur mom of two beloved kitties, Bambino and Betty.

Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Mester enjoys a variety of hobbies including reading, cooking, watching movies and TV shows, playing kickball, and spending quality time with her family and friends. Her love for animals and commitment to their well-being shine through in both her professional and personal life at First State Urgent Vet.