Where Art Meets Medicine
How a Comedian-Turned-Veterinarian is Transforming Emergency Pet Care in Fort Collins
At Inkwell Veterinary Emergency Clinic in Fort Collins, Colorado, veterinary care is more than just medicine—it's an art form. Founded by Dr. Matthew Asciutto, a professional improvisational comedian turned emergency veterinarian, Inkwell brings a refreshing and deeply human approach to pet emergency care. With decades of combined emergency experience in specialty/referral centers across the country, Drs. Asciutto, Goldrick, and Pappert are redefining what it means to provide compassionate, high-quality care in an independently-owned, outpatient emergency clinic.
What makes Inkwell truly unique is the way Dr. Asciutto’s artistic background shapes every aspect of the clinic’s philosophy and practice. Before pursuing veterinary medicine, Dr. Asciutto spent years performing improvisational comedy—a skillset that has proven invaluable in his medical career. Improv is about paying attention to small details, listening intently, and collaborating to create something meaningful. These same principles guide the way he and his team approach every case.
“Listening is at the heart of what we do,” says Dr. Asciutto. “The pet parent knows their animal better than anyone else. By truly hearing their story and paying attention to the fine details—whether it’s in the history they provide or the diagnostic results we analyze—we’re able to piece together the larger picture and deliver the best possible care.”
This philosophy is beautifully reflected in the clinic’s mural, a stunning cascade of geometric shapes and colors inspired by Inkwell’s logo. The artwork symbolizes how veterinary medicine mirrors art: both require seeing the big picture while understanding the basic building blocks that compose it. “Every medical case is like a work of art,” explains Dr. Asciutto. “It’s about discerning those elements—both granular and grand—and working collaboratively to create something greater.”
In addition to its artistic foundation, Inkwell prioritizes accessibility, affordability, and community connection. Unlike many corporate-owned emergency clinics, Inkwell is independently owned and locally operated—a rarity in today’s veterinary landscape. Open late on weekdays and weekends, Inkwell fills a critical gap for pet parents seeking high-quality emergency care without exorbitant costs.
The clinic’s collaborative culture also sets it apart. Drawing from improv’s “yes-and” philosophy, Dr. Asciutto has fostered an environment where ideas are supported rather than dismissed outright. This creative openness not only leads to better medical outcomes but also encourages team members to speak up about potential errors—creating a safer environment for patients.
Clients have already taken notice of this distinctive approach:
"We're very excited for this wonderful addition to the FoCo community and are thrilled with the value we received."
Dr. Asciutto views veterinary medicine as one of humanity’s most passionate professions—a calling that blends science, compassion, and creativity into a singular expression of care. “Veterinary medicine is like art,” he says. “It’s a medium through which we express our entire lives’ work and passion—our patients are our canvas.”
For more information about Inkwell, Dr. Asciutto, or really anything else vet-med related, please contact us at hello@inkwell.vet.
