Shane Oakley: Early Life, Wife, Career and Hobbies

Shane Oakley is much more than the husband of Dr. Michelle Oakley, the renowned wildlife veterinarian and star of National Geographic Wild’s Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet.

Behind every remarkable professional is often an unsung hero, and for Michelle, that hero is Shane. From supporting her veterinary career to managing the demands of life in the Yukon Territory, Shane has been a cornerstone of her success.

This article dives deep into Shane Oakley’s life, exploring his role as a husband, father, and partner, as well as his contributions to their family and community.

Early Life and Background

Born and raised in the rugged landscapes of Canada, Shane Oakley grew up immersed in a world where resourcefulness and resilience were essential. His early experiences fostered the practical skills and emotional stability that would later become crucial in his life in the Yukon Territory.

Though details about Shane’s childhood are less publicized, his upbringing instilled a love for nature and wildlife. These shared values laid the foundation for his connection with Michelle, whose passion for animal care and outdoor activities mirrored his own.

Key Facts About Shane Oakley

Category	Details
Full Name	Shane Oakley
Date of Birth (DOB)	August 20, 1971
Age	53 years old (as of 2025)
Height	6 feet (183 cm)
Nationality	Canadian
Role	Supportive partner, father, and community member
Marital Status	Married to Dr. Michelle Oakley since 1992
Residence	Haines Junction, Yukon Territory
Children	Three daughters: Sierra, Maya, and Willow Oakley
Hobbies	Woodworking, outdoor photography, gardening
Skills	Fishing, hunting, equipment maintenance, homesteading
Community Role	Active participant in local events and community building
Support to Michelle	Assists with transportation, emergency logistics, and practical tasks
Fun Fact	Built a sled for his daughters from reclaimed materials

Shane Oakley wife: Dr. Michelle Oakley

Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet is a Nat Geo Wild show starring Dr. Michelle Oakley. It began airing on April 4, 2014. The series showcases her work around Haines Junction, Yukon, and Haines, Alaska.

She studied Zoology at the University of Michigan in 1991 and graduated from the Atlantic Veterinary College in Canada.

Meeting and Marriage to Dr. Michelle Oakley

Shane met Michelle during her time at the University of Michigan, where their shared interests and commitment to adventure drew them together.

The couple married in 1992 and embarked on a life filled with challenges and rewards. Their partnership has been a testament to teamwork and mutual support.

Michelle once said, “Shane is my rock. Without him, I couldn’t balance my work as a vet, mom, and community member.” This statement perfectly encapsulates Shane’s role in their life together.

Life in the Yukon

Shane and Michelle’s decision to settle in Haines Junction, a small village in the Yukon Territory, marked the beginning of their adventure in one of the most remote regions of the world.

Life in the wilderness comes with unique challenges, including harsh winters, limited resources, and the constant demands of homestead living.

In the Yukon, Shane embraced the remote lifestyle, becoming an expert in fishing, hunting, and maintaining their home in extreme conditions. His ability to adapt and thrive in such an environment underscores his resourcefulness and commitment to their family’s well-being.

Key Facts About Life in the Yukon

• Average Winter Temperature: -22°F to -40°F
• Population of Haines Junction: ~600
• Wildlife Sightings: Moose, bears, and caribou are common.
• Outdoor Activities: Ice fishing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding.

Shane Oakley’s Role as a Supportive Partner

Shane plays a pivotal role in supporting Michelle’s veterinary career. From managing emergency logistics to assisting with animal care, he ensures that her work runs smoothly.

Ways Shane Supports Michelle

• Transportation: Driving Michelle to remote locations for veterinary calls.
• Practical Tasks: Building and maintaining equipment for the clinic.
• Emotional Support: Providing stability during challenging moments.
• Parenting: Balancing responsibilities at home to give Michelle the flexibility to focus on her work.

Shane’s contributions often go unseen but are critical to Michelle’s ability to serve as a wildlife veterinarian.

Community Involvement

In addition to his role within the family, Shane is a valued member of the local community. He participates in neighbor relationships, assists with community events, and embodies the spirit of mutual aid that defines life in the Yukon.

Shane’s Community Contributions

• Hosting local gatherings to foster a sense of togetherness.
• Sharing life skills like fishing and hunting with neighbors and visitors.
• Supporting community initiatives aimed at preserving the wilderness.

Family Life and Parenthood

Shane and Michelle are proud parents to three daughters: Sierra, Maya, and Willow Oakley. Each has grown up immersed in the unique environment of the Yukon, learning valuable life skills and developing a deep appreciation for nature and wildlife.

Shane’s role as a father involves not only teaching survival skills but also instilling values of kindness, teamwork, and resilience. His hands-on parenting style has helped the Oakley daughters thrive in the face of challenges.

Parenting Highlights

• Teaching outdoor skills like fishing and hunting.
• Encouraging education and independence.
• Supporting their daughters’ involvement in community and outdoor activities.

Lesser-Known Facts About Shane Oakley

While Shane’s contributions to family and community are well-known, there are aspects of his life that often go unnoticed:

• Hobbies: Shane enjoys woodworking, outdoor photography, and gardening.
• Personal Milestones: He has completed several endurance events like backcountry treks.
• Fun Fact: Shane once built a sled for their daughters entirely out of reclaimed materials.

FAQs

Is Dr. Oakley still married?

Yes, Dr. Michelle Oakley and Shane Oakley have been married since 1992 and continue to share their life in the Yukon.

Where is Shane Oakley now?

Shane Oakley resides in Haines Junction, Yukon, where he manages the family’s homestead and supports Michelle’s veterinary career.

What happened to Dr. Oakley’s daughter?

Sierra is in vet school, Maya works part-time as a vet tech, and Willow studies international business and accounting in college.

What is Shane Oakley’s job?

Shane Oakley is an illustrator and also helps with family and community responsibilities in the Yukon.

Where is Michelle Oakley from?

Dr. Michelle Oakley was born in Munster, Indiana, and later moved to the Yukon to pursue her career and family life.

What is Dr. Oakley’s first name?

Dr. Oakley’s full name is Michelle Oakley, and she is the star of Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet.

How did Dr. Oakley meet her husband?

Michelle met Shane during a field study in the Yukon, where their shared love for the outdoors sparked their relationship.

What happened to Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet?

Dr. Michelle Oakley continues her veterinary work in the Yukon and Alaska, balancing her practice with starring in her show on Nat Geo Wild.

Was Shane Oakley in a car accident?

There is no verified information regarding Shane Oakley being involved in a car accident.

Conclusion

Shane Oakley is the unsung hero behind Dr. Michelle Oakley’s success. His dedication as a husband, father, and partner has been instrumental in their family’s journey.

From embracing the challenges of life in the Yukon Territory to providing unwavering support in Michelle’s veterinary career, Shane exemplifies the strength of a supportive partnership.

In a world captivated by the adventurous life of Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet, it’s important to recognize Shane Oakley as the steady pillar who helps make it all possible.