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Family Pet is a group practice, where all of our doctors
and staff members work together as a team to provide the best care for
you and your pet. In addition, however, we respect and appreciate the
importance of your relationship with your primary veterinarian, so never
be afraid to ask for the doctor of your choice. If your veterinarian is
away, please trust that you will be in good hands until her return –
All of our doctors are extremely well skilled, compassionate, and helpful.
They consult one another on cases daily, and regularly hold comprehensive
meetings to share information. Our hospital’s mandatory accurate
record keeping ensures that each doctor can read the medical record to
understand your pet's special needs as well as your decisions for his
or her care.
Dr. Marla Minuskin
Dr. Rae Ann Van Pelt
Dr. Jane Lohmar
Dr. Amy Ujiki
Dr. Sarah Blair
Dr. Mimi Kim
Dr. Tracy Goode
Dr. Beth Ellen McNamara
Dr. Kathi Berman
Dr. Lynn Lewin
(pictured with Lefty and Jackson)
co-founder of Family Pet Animal Hospital in 1990, graduated from the University
of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 1985. She has completed
special training courses in endoscopy, dentistry, and laparoscopic surgery.
(Note: Dr Marla is currently on an extended medical leave. We look forward
to her returning to us as soon as possible!)
What made you want to become a vet?
I was never happier than when I was working with animals, I’ve always
loved science and loved working with my hands. All of the jobs that I
have had since I was young were with animals. I started riding horses
when I was three and teaching riding lessons when I was twelve. I made
the decision in high school that I was going to be a vet.
What has been your most rewarding
moment as a vet?
There are so many rewarding moments, from making animals well and the
excitement on their faces when reunited with their parents to providing
relief when pets are ill and in pain. Over the years I've come to appreciate
and cherish the closeness with clients as we work through emotional decisions
as a team.
If you weren’t a vet, what would
you do?
Landscaping, aerobics instructor, work with seniors.
What animal scares you more than any
other?
Tarantulas…spiders in general.
What do you consider your greatest
accomplishment (personal or professional)?
I’m extremely happy in my marriage and glad my husband Rob is the
most understanding man on the planet.I’m also extraordinarily proud
of the hospital. I couldn’t have done it by myself and it wouldn’t
have worked without the relationship that Rae Ann and I have built over
the years.
What do you like to do with your spare
time?
Gardening…working out….riding my bike…wood turning,
seeing live music, spending time with friends and family.
What do you see as the greatest danger
towards household pets?
Human medications being used without a veterinarian’s permission.
Pets not having people and a plan in place to save them in case of an
emergency.
What is the most exotic animal you
have treated?
Probably a horned lizard or a rainbow boa.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Anguilla in the British West Indies…where Rob and I got married.
What was your minor in college?
I took a course on how to be a high school English teacher and I was the
most interested! I didn’t really have a minor. I probably would
have studied art and music.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Nuts and cheese. It makes no difference what kind.
What is your biggest pet peeve (non-animal
related)?
Littering. Rude people.
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(pictured with Brady)
co-founder of Family Pet Animal Hospital in 1990, graduated with honors
from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 1987,
and is currently advancing her ultrasonography skills. In addition to
being a practicing veterinarian and medical director at Family Pet, Dr
Rae Ann also serves as the president of Chicago Veterinary Emergency Services’
board of directors.
What made you want to become a vet?
In second grade my teacher asked what I wanted to be when I grew up. When
I replied that I wanted to be a veterinarian she told me that I would
change my mind. I was a determined child and I took it as a challenge.
When I reflect, I am grateful that I love my career so much and did not
err out of stubbornness. In school I was drawn to the sciences and medicine
was the obvious choice. I prefer veterinary medicine to human medicine
because we focus on the well being of the entire patient and not just
one organ system.
What has been your most rewarding
moment as a veterinarian?
Every time I send a patient home healthy I find my career rewarding. I
always call my clients after a serious procedure on their pet, or late
at night if there is a turn for the better, or too early in the morning
if there is good news, because I find it rewarding to relay my excitement
and concern for their pet and to hear the relief or joy in the owner’s
voice.
After practicing for 22 years, I find it equally rewarding to help younger
veterinarians better understand test results or a disease and to pass
on the art and nuances of veterinary medicine I have picked up over the
years. You can be well-educated, but it takes time to truly assess a patient
and apply the diagnostic results to come to the correct diagnosis. I love
when I see it click in a new veterinarian’s mind.
If you weren’t a vet, what would you do?
I am told I should go into interior design, but I know I have my own style
and would probably not accommodate to another person’s style. Besides,
I get too excited when I see ER on television and catch the director’s
mistakes or learn about a new procedure or concept in human medicine and
try to incorporate it into my veterinary knowledge.
What animal scares you more than any
other?
Snakes! I have tried to overcome this by handling them, but I cannot predict
their movements or understand how they are able to move without feet.
This frightens me.
What do you consider your greatest
accomplishment?
Professionally, starting Family Pet Animal Hospital with my partner, Marla
Minuskin. Our personalities are so different, but we respect those differences
and each other’s medicine. I feel we have created an atmosphere
that reflects the best of each of our personalities and drive. As president
of the board of Chicago Veterinary Emergency Services, I am seeing a long
time dream of mine finally coming to fruition as I help facilitate the
current construction of our 24/7 critical care specialty center.
Personally, adopting my children with my husband, Bob.
What do you like to do with your spare
time?
I am short on spare time between working and my family. I love to be active
(tennis, pilates, working out) so it is great when I can exercise with
my kids. My eight year old daughter and I will sometimes go on a morning
run. When she is tired, we walk and talk and I love to hear how grown
up she has become. Otherwise, put me on a boat! I love the water –
It relaxes me.
What do you see as the greatest danger
toward household pets?
There are so many pet experts offering advice on all areas from nutrition
to training to health care. I feel the industry needs more accreditation
programs so that the average pet owner can knowledgeably select whose
advice to follow.
What is the most exotic animal you
have treated?
I once treated a pet opossum for kidney failure and a Vietnamese potbelly
pig for intestinal upset from an apple pie.
What is your favorite comfort food?
I was recently put on a gluten-free diet so my favorites had to change.
Dark chocolate covered raisins and milk chocolate strawberries are my
new stress relievers.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
Laziness. I cannot understand why some people don’t want to experience
more out of life.
Name 5 things people might be surprised
to know about you:
1) I’m on a gluten-free diet
2) I’m allergic to cats and rabbits
3) I’ve gone skydiving and bungee jumping
4) I can’t whistle
5) My first job was selling shoes at Wiebolt’s
top
(pictured with Lily
and Penny)
graduated with high honors from the University of Illinois College of
Veterinary Medicine in 1995. Family Pet is proud and grateful that Dr
Jane has practiced here as an associate veterinarian since 1997.
What made you want to become a vet?
Being a banker for 11 years just wasn’t cutting it for me. I loved
the people I worked with (yes, bankers can be lovable!) but got no charge
out of what I was doing. I had done extensive volunteering in the wildlife
and zoo fields, and knew that broadly I wanted to work with animals. A
good friend asked me what I would do if there were no obstacles, and “Be
a vet” just popped out of my mouth. (Thank you, Steve!)
How did you find yourself at Family Pet?
I had volunteered at an animal hospital with my friend Darrin, but when
he moved to Seattle to become one of the vets at the Woodland Park Zoo,
he suggested I call Family Pet. At the time, it had been opened only a
short while, and when I spoke to Marla about volunteering, she answered
that she wouldn’t know what to do with a volunteer! I persisted
and later landed a volunteer spot before I went to vet school, then kept
coming back during school. At graduation, Family Pet didn’t have
room for another vet, so I worked at another hospital for 2 years until
a spot opened up. (Two VERY LONG years, I might add.)
Did you study anything besides veterinary medicine
in school?
I was an economics major in undergrad, and had virtually no science in
my background, so I had to go back to school to take biology, chemistry,
physics, etc. before I could apply to vet school.
What are the most common questions you
answer as a practicing veterinarian?
What is my dog allergic to? What is the best food to feed my pet? How
long will my pet live? (All, by the way, virtually unanswerable questions.)
What do you see as the greatest danger
toward household pets?
Inattention. By whom? Owners, veterinarians, day care supervisors, dog
park visitors, pet sitters We’re all responsible for the safety
and health of our companion animals.
What animal scares you more than any other?
Hands down, crocodiles. A few years ago I was on a research expedition
in Brazil, and while paddling a canoe down a river, I was surrounded by
stealthy crocs. I froze and it was one of the few times in my life I truly
felt panicked.
If you weren’t a vet, what would
you do?
I would love to be an editor. I’m not very creative, but I can usually
take what someone else has written and make it better. In my fantasy world,
though, I would be a Supreme Court Justice, but without the need for congressional
approval.
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?
Making sure that every year is better than the last
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Reading (I’m on my fifth or sixth read of A Son of the Circus right
now); gardening, although it always gets the best of me; Pilates (thank
you Frog Temple for giving me the only exercise I have ever stuck with);
watching HGTV; making my pets happy, which gives me the most happiness
in the world.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Costa Rica. It’s got everything I love.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Chicken Pot Pies from 404 Wine Bar.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
Drivers who think the yellow light means to speed up. When did they stop
teaching that it is illegal to enter an intersection when the light is
yellow? That behavior is rude, dangerous, and most of all arrogant. So
I guess that truthfully, the answer is “arrogance” .
Who are your heroes?
This is the easiest question of all. Jane Goodall.
Name 5 things that people might be surprised to know
about you:
Since I wear my heart on my sleeve, I can’t imagine there’s
anything
That’s not known about me. But here goes:
1) I lived in the jungles of Borneo for 6 months, at an orangutan research
facility.
2) OK, that’s all I can think of.
What is your favorite quotation?
“No man made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he
could do only a little”
I have no idea who said that, but it has always resonated with me.
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(pictured with Margot)
graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine after completing
her clinical year at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2006. She
joined Family Pet in 1994 as a technician while still in high school,
and continued working here during her summer and winter vacations while
completing her undergraduate degree in New York. We eagerly welcomed Dr
Amy as an associate veterinarian as soon as she graduated from vet school!
What made you want to become a vet?
I couldn’t imagine working without animals in my life and I come
from a medical family which made veterinary medicine the perfect career
choice for me.
If you weren’t a vet, what would
you do?
I would either own my own flower shop or search for a career that would
allow me to travel the world.
What animal scares you more than any
other?
All insects big or small…even ladybugs!
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment (personal
or professional)?
Fulfilling my lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian and my relationship
with my husband who is also a veterinarian.
How did you find yourself at Family
Pet?
I started at Family Pet as a high school volunteer and immediately fell
in love with the hospital and all of the patients. The people at Family
Pet became a second family to me and I feel privileged to be a part of
such a special practice.
What do you like to do with your spare time?
I enjoy golf, movies, knitting, cooking, gardening, (and silly reality
shows are a guilty pleasure).
What is the most exotic animal you
have treated?
I’ve worked on a lynx, capuchin monkey and a camel.
What do you see as the greatest danger toward household
pets?
Obesity has become a growing problem in veterinary medicine (no pun intended).
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Anywhere and everywhere…I love to travel. Some favorites include:
Sydney, Sienna, Paris, and St. Barths.
What was your minor in college?
Major: Environmental Science. Minor: Religion
What is your favorite comfort food?
Pretty much all food makes me happy.
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(pictured with Simon)
graduated from Kansas State University in 1999. She completed her internship
at Hollywood Animal Hospital in Hollywood FL, and continued working there
until she and her husband moved to Chicago. When we called references
at her previous 20-doctor practice, we were told by one of the senior
veterinarians: “Sarah is outstanding in every way. Don’t spend
another minute on the phone with me – Hang up and hire her right
now!” We did just that, and have loved every minute with Dr Sarah
working as our Emergency Doctor since August of 2006. (Note: She is currently
on maternity leave with daughter Delaney, born on November 23, 2009!)
What made you want to become a vet?
I have wanted to be a veterinarian since I was five years old, and have
few memories before that! My parents were so encouraging and supportive
the entire time, which was very helpful for the long journey. I worked
for Dr John Teeter in Kansas City and he was the most influential in getting
me through.
Have you practiced anywhere besides
Family Pet?
I practiced in Hollywood FL for 7 years prior to joining Family
Pet.
Did you study anything besides veterinary medicine
in school?
I was pretty focused, but my favorite elective courses were things like
guitar, horse training (no joke – I got credit for this!) and volleyball.
What are the most common questions you answer as a
practicing vet?
“What would you do if this were your pet? – The hardest question,
because every situation, companion, and illness is different.
What has been your most rewarding moment as a veterinarian?
I don’t think there is one moment – But the best thing is
when a pet gets to leave the hospital feeling better than when it come
in, no matter the severity or duration of the illness. So much is our
of our control, so when a treatment plan goes well, everyone is happy!
If you weren’t a vet, what would you do?
I would be a travel writer - not that I’m a fantastic writer, but
it would be great going all over the world for “research”.
What animal scares you more than any other?
Snakes – They’re just creepy.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Key West, Florida or Queensland, New Zealand.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Pizza or s’mores (but not at the same time!)
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Travel, crafts, read, exercise.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
People who aren’t nice to the front desk staff. Everyone has the
same goal, to take care of the pets, and being impatient or rude to people
doesn’t help anyone involved.
What is your greatest accomplishment?
Probably getting through vet school, and then my internship, where I learned
to manage many difficult emergency and surgical cases.
What do you see as the greatest danger toward household
pets?
The Internet, when people use it to self-diagnose and medicate.
What is your favorite quotation?
“I pass this way but once. Any good, therefore, that I can do or
any kindness I can show, let me do it now. Let me not defer, nor neglect,
for I shall not pass this way again.” This has been my favorite
since high school, and it still holds true in so many life situations.
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(pictured with Nika and Petey)
graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2004 after
completing her clinical year at University of Wisconsin-Madison. After
completing an internship in 2005 at Fifth Avenue Veterinary Specialists
in New York City, she went on to practice at the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial
Animal Hospital in Manhattan. She has worked on cases with the ASPCA Humane
Law Enforcement, and has appeared on “Animal Precinct” on
the Animal Planet network. Dr Mimi is originally from the Chicago area,
and we were delighted to welcome her back home and into Family Pet as
an associate veterinarian in April of 2007.
Where did you attend vet school and
why?
Ross University in St. Kits. I worked with a Chicago vet that attended
Ross and highly recommended it. It turned out to be one of the most enjoyable
years of my life.
What made you want to become a vet?
As a kid I always gravitated toward animals and felt happiest when I was
around them. Later, I became interested in science and medicine and now
I can’t imagine not being a veterinarian.
What has been your most rewarding
moment as a veterinarian?
Three stray pit bull puppies were brought in by the NYC Humane Law Enforcement
Agency. They were severely hypothermic, emaciated, flea infected and hardly
holding on to life. I worked on these puppies with 2 LVTs for several
hours to stabilize them and support them through their shock. Months later
I found out that all 3 were adopted out to separate homes. Its cases like
this one that reminds, me why I love what I do everyday.
If you weren’t a vet, what would
you do?
Be a chef and make people full and happy.
What animal scares you more than any
other?
Snakes and worms!
What do you consider your greatest
accomplishment?
Becoming the first doctor in my family.
How did you find yourself at Family
Pet?
I had always heard great things about Family Pet when I was a vet tech
around Chicago. Thankfully they were hiring when I moved back from New
York.
What do like to do with your spare
time?
Watch movies, workout, read, cook and do anything with my dogs.
What do you see as the greatest danger
toward household pets?
Hi rise syndrome in cats was a big problem in NYC due to the lack of screens
in buildings. It is easily prevented with screens from your local hardware
store and a little education.
What is the most exotic animal you
have treated?
Alpaca
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Anywhere warm, near water with good food!
What is your favorite comfort food?
Rice Krispy treats, chocolate and french fries.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
Bad drivers.
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(pictured with Beckett and Dali)
graduated from the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine
in 2005. She then went on to complete a combined internship at Florida
Veterinary Specialists and North Bay Animal Hospital in Small Animal Medicine
& Surgery. This is the only internship in the country that combines
both general practice and specialty training. Prior to starting her veterinary
career, she was a practicing attorney for 5 years and graduated from Syracuse
University College of Law. Dr Tracy has been a dearly valued member of
our Family Pet family – seeing regular appointments, as well as
being our Monday Emergency Doctor – since joining us as an associate
veterinarian in May of 2008.
What made you want to become a vet?
I have always been passionate about animals, and decided to make my passion
my career.
Where did you attend vet school and why?
University of Wisconsin. I was living in Wisconsin at the time and it
is one of the best schools in the country.
Most rewarding moment as a veterinarian?
Completing my internship in small animal medicine and surgery.
If I weren't a vet, what would I do?
I'd be a yoga instructor at a resort in some tropical location.
What animal scares you more than any other?
I have been fortunate to have been involved with zoo animals, so I am
not afraid of most animals, just have a healthy respect for them!
What you consider your greatest accomplishment?
Leaving the legal profession to become a veterinarian.
How did you find yourself at Family Pet?
I was working as an ER doctor at Chicago Veterinary Services and was contacted
by Family Pet. I had heard wonderful things about them. When I met everyone
here, I knew it was the practice for me!
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Spend time with friends, especially going to restaurants and various events
in Chicago! There's so many to choose from. I also love sailing
and working out.
What do you see as the greatest danger toward household pets?
Plants. I've seen some really tragic cases of lily toxicity in cats.
What is the most exotic animal you have treated?
An African Elephant with foot wounds.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Anywhere with a beach and an ocean!
What was your minor in college?
French
What is your favorite comfort food?
Dark chocolate, cheese and red wine.
What would you do if you happened to be international
waters?
I would be sailing!
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graduated from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine
in 2003, where she also worked as Co-Manager of the Wildlife Medical Clinic.
She completed her veterinary externship at the Minnesota Raptor Center
in Minneapolis, diagnosing and treating scores of raptors during the West
Nile Virus outbreak. Dr. Beth Ellen practiced at River Forest Animal Hospital
prior to Family Pet’s good fortune of welcoming her as an associate
veterinarian in July of 2008.
Where did you attend vet school and why?
I went to the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana
What made you want to become a vet?
I have always loved animals and biology. However I also love literature
and the arts. So my first career was in theater. In the mid '90s,
I was taking a break from directing and was filling my free time by volunteering
at the Anti-Cruelty League in the program that allows you to assist the
veterinarians. Within a few weeks of seeing them doing exams and interacting
with the animals, I knew that was exactly what I wanted to be doing with
my life. It seemed a perfect combination of analytical skills, linear
and non-linear thinking, compassion and challenges. And I've not
been disappointed.
What has been your most rewarding moment as a veterinarian?
I don't know that there has been just one. Every time I have an
animal successfully recover from surgery and return to their normal life
or help an owner navigate a complicated decision, I feel rewarded as a
veterinarian.
If you weren't a vet, what would you do?
Write travel guides for vegetarians. That would be the perfect combination
of two of my favorite activities; exploring new places and trying new
restaurants.
What animal scares you more than any other?
Sharks! Their eyes creep me out. Plus they have that whole stealth attack
thing going on.
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?
There are two things so far in my life that I'm very proud of. The first
was that during second and third year of vet school I managed the Wildlife
Clinic at the University. I originated and organized a benefit called
Doodle for Wildlife, which I'm pleased to say has become a yearly
function and now raises over half of the Clinic's operating budget.
The second is that during my last year of school I had the opportunity
to work at Brookfield Zoo. I conducted a research project as to why they
were not having success breeding an endangered species of bird. I found
some relevant data which I was then able to expand into a national study
which I presented to the species survival committee. As a result, nutritional
and breeding practices were changed and hopefully, in some small way,
I contributed to the survival of that species.
How did you find yourself at Family Pet?
My friend, Dr. Kathi Berman, knew that I was looking for another position
and thought I would be a good fit at Family Pet. Once I came down and
met everyone here, I thought so too!
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Travel, knit, read, bake, cook, entertain, cheer the White Sox on to victory
and generally enjoy the company of others.
What do you see as the greatest danger toward household
pets?
Ignorance and misinformation. It's frustrating to me when people get pets
because they are cute or cool and don't factor in that the animal has
specific needs, be it behavioral, nutritional or environmental. And just
because something is 'natural' doesn't mean it's automatically good. After
all, arsenic is natural and we wouldn't want that in our diet.
What is the most exotic animal you have treated?
That would be a tie between a golden eagle and a polar bear
What is your favorite vacation spot?
I'm not sure yet, I've so many more places to visit.
But I've really enjoyed the grandeur of the Canyons, the beauty
of Provence and the wildness of Australia.
What was your minor in college?
I didn't have a minor as I had a double major in Theater and English.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Red wine. OK, technically that's a drink. I guess it would
be French fries, the skinny, extra crispy kind.
What would you do if you happened to be international
waters?
If I just happened to be in international waters, I'm sure I would
be trying my hardest to not get sunburned because I'm incredibly
fair. I hope I would also be having the time of my life and maybe would
be doing research on some species of cephalopod.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
Rudeness! My mother always said, there's no excuse for rudeness and I
would have to agree. That and not picking up after yourself.
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(pictured with Dusty and Brenda)
graduated with Highest Honors from the University of Illinois: College
of Veterinary Medicine in 2003. In 2001, she received a CVMA Scholarship
for her intent to benefit the veterinary profession in the Chicago area
after graduation. Other veterinary school awards include:
• CVMA President's Scholastic Award - for excellence in small animal
medicine and surgery.
• Sophie's Golden Heart Award - for excellence in cardiology.
• Dr. Beryl D. and Renee Mell Award - for compassion in dealing
with the bond that exists between small animal companions and their owners.
Kathi first joined Family Pet in 1999, working as both receptionist and
technician, and we were thrilled to welcome her as an associate veterinarian
immediately upon her graduation!
What made you want to become a vet?
Working at the University of Chicago in a research lab made me evaluate
my opinions regarding animals and their role in our lives… Shortly
thereafter I changed my career path from medical school to veterinary
school. Thank God for those rats!
What has been your most rewarding moment as a vet?
Saving a 5-month-old severely anemic cat. She presented with too little
blood to live and after 2 weeks of aggressive treatment (and lots of love!)
she was running around like a kitten again! Her purr soothes me to this
day.
If you weren't a vet, what would you do?
Living in Whistler B.C. with a pet-friendly bed & breakfast, skiing
my life away!
What animal scares you more than any other?
COCKROACHES! Seeing one only means there are generations more hiding in
the dark corners!
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment
(personal or professional)?
Being the first college and doctorate graduate of my family.
How did you find yourself at Family Pet?
I came to meet a friend for dinner one Friday night and was lucky enough
to meet Marla – We hit it off and I began working weekends as a
receptionist. That turned into summers and vacations as a receptionist
and technician throughout vet school… and they asked me back! That
was one of my very happiest days!
What do you like to do with your spare time?
Kickbox, read (anything I can get my hands on!), knit, music, yoga.
What do you see as the greatest danger towards household
pets?
Self-medicating performed by well-intentioned owners – Ibuprofen,
Tylenol and Aleve are toxic but many people don’t realize this.
What is the most exotic animal you have treated?
A tiger - In vet school we had to correct a fractured tooth. Her paws
were unbelievably big… she was beautiful.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
1) Donnelly, Idaho. 2) Whistler, British Columbia. 3) Telluride, Colorado.
Favorite color: Purple. Favorite day: Friday. Favorite animal: Domestic
cat.
Favorite drink: Coffee.
What was your minor in college?
Major: Biology. Minor: Women’s Studies and History.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Mashed potatoes, matzoh ball soup, pizza, macaroni & cheese (not in
the same meal!)
What is your biggest pet peeve (non-animal related)?
Mean people… There’s just no need.
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graduated with honors from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary
Medicine in 2009, after her first career as a biomechanical engineer (BS
Biological Engineering, Cornell University College of Engineering, 2000.)
She completed a veterinary externship at Guide Dogs for the Blind in Northern
California, along with extra orthopedic rotations and research in hip
dysplasia, prior to also completing a veterinary externship here at Family
Pet. We are very excited to welcome Dr Lynn as the newest rising star
associate veterinarian at Family Pet! She will be working primarily as
our emergency doctor, and will also see regular appointments every week.
What made you want to become a vet?
I have always wanted to feel passionate about my career. Early on, veterinary
medicine held an allure for me, but it wasn’t the academic path
I originally chose. After graduating from Cornell University and working
as an engineer for five years, I decided to start volunteering at an animal
hospital in Princeton, NJ after work. As soon as I started there, I knew
it was the perfect fit. Even though most nights I was really tired from
a full day at work, I always looked forward to getting to the vet practice,
and felt rejuvenated the minute I entered the building. I noticed that
especially after my most stressful work days, as soon as I saw my first
animal for the evening, I would be immediately soothed. Veterinary medicine
is such an amazingly warm field - I love helping not only the animals,
but just as importantly, the people who love them.
How did you find yourself at Family Pet?
My husband is from Chicago and after meeting him during undergrad, I kept
him on the east coast for 13 years! But along the way I made a deal that
once I graduated from vet school, we could move back “home”
to his favorite city. Since I didn't know the vet practices in the Chicago
area, I turned to his friends and family for advice, as I wanted to be
affiliated with a practice that has an excellent reputation. Family Pet
came up over and over again. I did an “externship” at Family
Pet during my final year of vet school for two weeks and immediately fell
in love with the vets, the staff, the clients and the patients! I couldn't
believe how many hugs were given in the exam room – and how many
sloppy kisses were received - and I knew that it would be the perfect
place for me. When I got the call from Rae Ann that there was an opportunity
opening up, I felt happier than the day that I found out I had been accepted
into veterinary school.
Did you study anything besides veterinary medicine
in school?
I graduated from Cornell University with a major in biological engineering
and a minor in mechanical engineering. I had a special interest in biomechanics,
and conducted research on canine hip dysplasia and on surgical suture
materials. This interest continued on while I was in vet school, and since
I loved orthopedics, I took extra clinical rotations in it.
What do you see as the greatest danger toward household
pets?
Being unwanted is at the top of that list. Although it is improving, too
many people still buy a pet impulsively, before thinking everything through.
They don’t always understand the extent of the responsibility they
will have, and as the adorable puppy or kitten starts to grow, they are
ill-prepared for what will be expected of them. The other discouraging
situation is that so many people still don't spay or neuter their animals.
Pet overpopulation is the saddest part of veterinary medicine.
What animal scares you more than any other?
Mice - we had them in our kitchen in Philadelphia and every time I would
see one I would scream for my husband and jump up on the kitchen chair.
My husband would always respond with..."aren't you a vet?!?!?"
If you weren’t a vet, what would you do?
Own a winery with my husband. We've both looked into a program at UC Davis
in viticulture & enology. I've always secretly wanted to be a farmer
and adding wine to the mix would be perfect.
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?
My two children. I had my daughter Ali during my second year of vet school.
In order to stay with my class, I didn't take any time off during the
pregnancy. In fact, I continued to study, even in the hospital right after
I delivered her! Looking back on it now, I know it was crazy, but having
her provided me with such a different perspective while I was in school
it actually worked out better than planned. I don't know that I would
have made it through without being inspired by her. Our son Kai was born
in July 2009, which meant I was pregnant through most of my clinical rotations.
It was tiring, but both of them empower me to feel like I can accomplish
anything and having them has made me so happy.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Eat good food, drink good wine and microbrews with my husband. Play at
the park with my daughter and hold my son. Snuggle in bed with my Bernese
Mountain Dog Daisy. I also enjoy outdoor activities like scuba diving,
skiing, biking, and camping.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Napa/Sonoma Wine Country - my husband and I have been there six times
and counting... We try to incorporate wine into most of our travels and
have toured in France, Germany, Italy, and all over the US.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Cookie Bouquets - there's just something about an inch of colored sugar
on top of a sugar cookie that makes me so happy!!! I also love the darkest
chocolate I can find topped with natural peanut butter.
Name 5 things that people might be surprised to know
about you:
1. I was captain of the ski team in college.
2. Other than taking home the class bunny occasionally and raising a Seeing
Eye Puppy for a year in high school, I never had any pets growing up!!
3. I am a champion thumb-wrestler (although I'm not sure where the talent
comes from)
4. I've had four knee surgeries - all from soccer and ski racing injuries
5. I’m Greek – my maiden name is Aridgides.
What is your favorite quotation?
"Where there is a will, there is a way". I got this in a fortune
cookie when I was deciding on applying to vet school and I have kept it
in my wallet since then. It is very worn, but is still there!!
Back to
|
; "Dr. Marla Minuskin pictured with Lefty and Jack")
; "Dr. Rae Ann Van Pelt pictured with Brady")
; "Dr. Jane Lohmar pictured with Lily and Penny")
; "Dr. Amy Ujiki pictured with Margot")
; "Dr. Sarah Blair pictured with Simon")
; "Dr. Mimi Kim pictured with Nika and Petey")
; "Dr. Goode pictured with Beckett and Dali")
; "Dr. Kathi Berman pictured with Dusty and Brenda")
