Karen Johnston completed both her undergraduate and veterinary degree at Cornell University. At Cornell, she became involved with research on Feline Leukemia and Feline Immunodeficiency viruses. After graduating in 1990, she worked in NYC and Mass with Dr. Wen. After leaving this practice she spent 6 years at a small animal practice on Long Island before purchasing the Hampton Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Johnston obtained her acupuncture training through the Chi Institute.