Dr. Connell founded Independent Hill Veterinary Clinic, along with Dr. Ross Moore, in 1992. Dr. Connell graduated with a B.S. from The Engineering School of Lehigh University in 1975 and Phi Zeta from Louisiana State University Veterinary School in 1979. She received an MBA from George Washington University in 1986. She received certification in Veterinary Acupuncture through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society in 2005.

Dr. Connell has received post-doctorate training in Traditional Chinese Herbal Veterinary Medicine, Food Therapy, and Classical Homeopathy.

Professional association memberships include AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association), AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association), AAVA (American Association of Veterinary Acupuncture), IVAS (International Veterinary Acupuncture Society), and AHVMA (American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association).