Dr. M. E. (Marv) Johnson graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University in 1968. He practiced veterinary medicine at Roseland Animal Hospital in South Bend, Indiana after graduation in 1968 until 1978 when he returned to Iowa with his family and opened the newly constructed Animal Medical Clinic of Merle Hay. He also founded the Animal Care Clinic West on University Avenue in Clocktower Square Center in West Des Moines in 1983 and the Metro Cat Hospital of Des Moines at the same location in 1995. Dr. Johnson opened the Vista Veterinary Centre in Vista Centre on Vista Drive off of Jordan Creek Parkway in West Des Moines in 2001.

The Veterinary hospitals above are members of the Veterinary Medical Group of Des Moines and are accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association. Only 14% of all the small animal hospitals in the United States and Canada have this earned distinction.

Dr. Johnson has been active in organized veterinary medicine at all levels in the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and served as its President in 1990-1991. He has also been active in the Iowa Veterinary Medical Association and was named Iowa Veterinarian of the Year in 1992.

Dr. Johnson has been recognized by the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine with its highest award, the Stange Award for his contributions to his profession.  He has been active and generous in his support of Iowa State University, the College of Veterinary Medicine and the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. In recognition, he was awarded the Alumni Medal by Iowa State University.

Dr. Johnson is committed to and enjoys his family including his spouse and their three adult children and their families including seven grandchildren. His family includes a Jack Russell Terrier, "Digger" and a cat of mixed heritage, "Wally".