"I Want to Go Where They Went" is a memoir of Schmidt's notes from almost three decades as a veterinary doctor. Within it are twelve stories of fascinating cases, humorous experiences, and touching moments. In the style of James Herriot's beloved nonfiction, Dr. Schmidt shares the tales of his animal patients, who can't tell the stories of themselves.

"Not since the touching and inspiring stories of James Herriot---which caused me to want to become a veterinarian---have I been so reminded of why I love what I do and why others love it too... Dr. Schmidt knows there is only "one greatest pet in the world," and every family has him or her. "

-- Dr. Marty Becker, America's Vet. Veterinary expert for "Good Morning America," and best selling author of books including "The Healing Power of Pets."

"I Want to Go Where They Went" is a memoir of Dr. Schmidt's experiences from three decades as a small animal veterinarian. Within it are twelve stories of captivating cases, humorous events, and touching moments. In the style of James Herriot's beloved nonfiction, Dr. Schmidt shares the tales of his animal patients, who can't tell the stories themselves.

The chapters unfold with dramatic situations and quirky pet parents. Some of the chapters feature medical dramas, while others highlight the amazing individuals I've encountered on my journey. The stories emphasize the special bond between pets, their owners, and the people that care for them. Many offer a unique, behind-the-scenes exploration into the world of veterinary medicine.

The book features pencil illustrations and photographs of some of the actual pets and people featured in the stories. This is a must-have for anyone who's ever welcomed an animal into their homes and hearts.

Jeff Schmidt was born and raised in Northern California with a gaggle of family pets including cats, dogs, and a horse. It was during this time he developed his respect and love for animals. Upon his graduation from high school, he served two years of active duty in the U.S. Army as a tank crewman in West Germany. After an honorable discharge from the service, he graduated with honors with a degree in Biology from San Diego State University. He was accepted into the Veterinary Medical program at the University of California, Davis where he received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1995. He did a one-year surgery and medicine internship at a regional referral hospital and worked there for another eight years as a staff veterinarian. Eventually, he opened his own veterinary practice in the city of Roseville. This practice grew to employ six veterinarians and a staff of about twenty. The motto of the practice was Service, Quality, and Compassion and it won multiple accolades as one of the top veterinary hospitals in the region. Dr. Schmidt retired in 2021 and currently resides in Kuna, Idaho. His hobbies include competition pistol shooting and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.