Dr. Emilio DeBess received his DVM and MPVM degrees from the University of California, Davis, in 1991. He completed an internship at the Atlantic Veterinary College in Prince Edward Island, Canada, and later a residency in public health with the California Department of Health, where he investigated disease outbreaks and worked on health issues along the California–Mexico border.

He currently serves as the Public Health Veterinarian for the State of Oregon, with an emphasis on infectious and zoonotic diseases. In addition to his public health work, he continues to practice small animal and equine medicine.

Dr. DeBess also volunteers with PAW Team, providing medical care to pets belonging to houseless and low-income families in the Portland area.

Dr. DeBess also volunteers for a couple of community organizations distributing pet food (PONGO FUND) and medical care to pets belonging to the homeless. He enjoys being active in his community.