Meet Our Amazing Team

Dive a little deeper into our Crown Point location and learn what makes us truly special! Click on the photos below to learn more.

Veterinarians

Dr. Matthew Szalay

Veterinarian, Medical Director

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment at this point in your life?
Getting accepted into veterinary school and starting my career in this amazing profession. I will never forget opening that letter…

If you could give one piece of advice to pet owners, what would it be?
If an owner has a concern about their pet, consult their veterinarian before looking up symptoms online. Google can be a dangerous place to find advice. Veterinarians will gladly offer advice 10 times over having a pet owner Google something just once.

What’s your favorite comfort food?
Chipotle. Hands down.

3 things people might be surprised to know about you?
I’m an avid sports fan. Strong loyalty to the Cubs, Bears, Blackhawks, and Bulls. I am not a fan of winters because I enjoy outdoor activities like golfing, fishing, and attending baseball games. I love to cook—everything from preparation, the cooking process itself, the presentation, and of course…the eating…is fun for me.

Dr. Mallorie Barenie

Veterinarian

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment at this point in your life?
Graduating from vet school, of course!

If you could give one piece of advice to pet owners, what would it be?
Owning a pet is a fun and rewarding responsibility. Try to be as educated as you can about your pet’s wellness needs throughout his or her life; however, always consult your veterinarian first if there are any questions or concerns regarding your pet’s healthcare.

What’s your favorite comfort food?
Macaroni and cheese

3 things people might be surprised to know about you?
I played the piccolo in Purdue’s All American Marching Band, I’ve traveled to London, Beijing, and Costa Rica, and I enjoy hiking and photographing nature.

Dr. Therese Bonoma

Veterinarian

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment at this point in your life?
I consider becoming a veterinarian my greatest accomplishment thus far. It was a lifelong dream and I can’t imagine doing anything else!

If you could give one piece of advice to pet owners, what would it be?
Preventative care is the most important part of ensuring your pets have a healthy and long life. Make sure they are kept up to date on vaccines, flea/tick and heartworm prevention, and get them spayed/neutered at the recommended age. Feed them a high-quality diet and get their teeth professionally cleaned regularly.

What’s your favorite comfort food?
Chocolate and ice cream

3 things people might be surprised to know about you?
1. I completed a full Ironman Triathlon in Madison, Wisconsin in 2015. It consists of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run. I finished in 12 and a half hours!

2. I have had my horse, Cowboy, since I was 12 years old. He even came to college and vet school with me.

3. I took part in a variety of animal science and veterinary-related studies abroad—including spending time in the Netherlands and South Africa.

Dr. Krista Turey

Veterinarian

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment at this point in your life?
My greatest accomplishment has been filling my life long dream of becoming a veterinarian.

If you could give one piece of advice to pet owners, what would it be?
Preventative care and routine exams are the best steps to keeping your pets happy and healthy!

What’s your favorite comfort food?
Flaming Hot Cheetos

3 things people might be surprised to know about you?
1. I studied abroad multiple times during college in Thailand, Italy, Tanzania, and the Dominican Republic.

2. I’m an avid baker and like to bring treats in for my coworkers on Mondays as a good way to start the week.

3. I have recently become a green thumb and am currently growing 30 different vegetables and fruits.

Dr. Jade Bazarnik

Veterinarian

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment at this point in your life?
Taking the leap to attend Veterinary School in a foreign country. I had never traveled outside the U.S. and actually didn’t obtain a passport until I was preparing to leave for school.

If you could give one piece of advice to pet owners, what would it be?
An ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure. The expense of some of the things we can do as preventative medicine (vaccines, spay/neuter, routine dental care, or even heartworm preventative) truly pales in comparison to some of the costs of treatments of the conditions your pet may suffer from without them.

What’s your favorite comfort food?
Spaghetti and meatballs with my grandmother’s recipe for a homemade sauce

3 things people might be surprised to know about you?
My first job was in the kitchen at a nursing home. I’ve never seen or read Game of Thrones. The only shadow puppet I can do is a rabbit.

Dr. Madelyn Waleski

Veterinarian

Bio coming soon.

Dr. Kristi Russell

Veterinarian

What has been your most rewarding moment working with animals? The human-animal bond is a beautiful thing! It is my privilege to play a primary role in this relationship, while observing the dynamics and how they affect the overall well-being between pets and their owners.

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment at this point in your life?
Participating as a Team World Vision coach/athlete, fundraising money for clean water, and being an advocate for children in Africa, through training/finishing half-Ironman distance triathlons and full marathons.

What is your favorite comfort food?
Ice cream!

Dr. Matthew Smith

Veterinarian

Bio Coming Soon.

Management Team

Jordyn M.

Practice Manager

What is your favorite quote about animals?
“Those who teach us the most about humanity aren’t always human.” – Donald L. Hicks

Favorite comfort food:
Dairy Queen ice cream

Last book you read:
The Host by Stephanie Meyer

Most unusual pet you’ve owned?
I currently have a rat.

Mike

Kennel Manager

I have been working at Coyne since April 2018 and I absolutely love it. My inspiration to want this job was simply my love for animals. When you’re working in a place full of animals every day is very heartwarming.

Mike’s most embarrassing moment at work was when he accidentally locked himself in the outdoor kennels and realized he had no way to climb out over the wall.

If he had to choose two animals to breed together, defying the laws of nature, he would want it to be a cat and a dog so that it could be the real-life version of the cartoon ‘Catdog’.

Michelle S.

Veterinary Technician Manager

Please write a paragraph about your career, what inspired you to get into the animal care field, inspirations, and heart-warming job experiences.

I have always had a passion for animals ever since I was little. My parents could always count on me bringing home a variety of new “pets”, which I’m sure they were very appreciative of. I started my career in 2006 when I graduated from Joliet Junior College as a Certified Veterinary Technician. Along my path I got to work with a variety of animals, ranging from small pocket pets to large wild cats, as one of my externships was at a zoo. As much of a rush, it was to experience doing a wellness check on a sedated Orangutan, I decided to stick with small animals. I recently joined Coyne Veterinary Center in October of 2019 and am very eager to care for your fur baby and share my experience with the staff.

Sarah M.

Office Manager

Never in a million years could I not have pictured myself in the animal care field. I have always been a huge animal lover so I took the leap of faith. My long term goal is to become a technician and be hands-on. Being here at Coyne, each and every day one of the techs have done something to inspire me. Always so willing to help. It’s always a great day to snuggle new puppies and kittens as well as being with families during the tough times. Creating relationships with our clients just puts the biggest smile on my face.

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.
A coworker brought in her sugar gliders and I tried to act cool and unscared but the moment that little glider leaped off of the table it was game over! I screamed like a little girl.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?
If I could compare myself to any animal I would be a Fennec Fox. Always happy go lucky!

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
If I could have any animal in the world I would choose a highland cow. They are the cutest, fluffiest babies!

Mackenna H.

Room Assistant Manager

Bio Coming Soon.

Veterinary Technicians & Assistants

Ashley H.

Veterinary Assistant

Bio Coming Soon.

Kara

Veterinary Assistant Shift Lead

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

When my old dog nervous peed on a stranger’s lap that she randomly decided to jump onto while hiking.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

Probably a cat. Independent and I appreciate attention but only when I want it.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

A wombat – they’re hilarious and adorable.

Jessica

Veterinary Technician Shift Lead

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

My favorite moment on the job was when I was helping care for a patient that was being stubborn while taking their medications. The owner called and requested to be put on speakerphone so they could talk their pet into taking their medications!

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

Gold retriever because they get to swim and lay in the sun all summer long!

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

A deer because they’re so cute and seem so sweet!

Cassy K.

Veterinary Technician

Please write a paragraph about your career, what inspired you to get into the animal care field, inspirations, and heart-warming job experiences.
I started working as a veterinary assistant at a small animal hospital when I was in high school, just after I got my first dog. The more I learned, the more my love for animals grew. One dachshund shortly turned into four and that’s when I realized this was the field I was meant to be in! I definitely have a passion for small animals and am always eager to help with any exotics that come through.

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.
Some of my favorite memories are a result of a challenge. There are a few instances I can think of with rowdy birds, but I think one of my favorites was handling two birds in a room with the doctor. The birds flew straight out of their kennel and around the whole room. The owners refrained from telling us that their birds were rarely handled and they did not necessarily feel comfortable handling them in the hospital. But luckily, they were just startled and were very friendly!

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?
If I could compare myself to any animal, I would choose a Beluga Whale. I love how playful and friendly they are, even in the wild. I love watching videos of them lending a helping hand and returning stuff people drop in the ocean.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
I did an internship at a zoo over the summer and loved taking care of the Cotton-Tipped Tamarins. They look like little mad scientists and are so devious; I could watch them play all day.

Nicolette

Veterinary Assistant

Ever since I was young, I have had a love for animals. After the cat I grew up loving passed away, I decided to pursue my Associate Degree in Veterinary Science Technology. I told myself that I would love other pets as much as I loved her. The best experiences I have at work are when clients tell me that they can tell I’m passionate about what I do.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

Dolphin because I would want to keep it in my back yard in a huge pool. It would be awesome for my son and husband, and I could swim with it anytime!

Maddie B.

Veterinary Assistant

Please write a paragraph about your career, what inspired you to get into the animal care field, inspirations, and heart-warming job experiences.

Although I am in nursing school currently; I will always have space in my heart for my furry friends. I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to work at Coyne on the weekends because even working at the hospital the techs and doctors have taught me so much about patient care. Some of the skills I have learned at Coyne I will take with me for the rest of my life.

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

When I was working in kennels, my manager at the time was hiding in a kennel with her favorite dog and scared the life out of me! I remember falling on the floor and dying of laughter!

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

I’d probably be a dog because I have a small group of people I love and I am loyal to them.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

I would love to own a fox. I think they are beautiful and seem to have a playful personality.

McClaryn

Technician Assistant

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

A dog came in that had eaten a toy, we induced vomiting and when the dog threw up the toy squeaked as it was coming out.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

A bear, I eat a lot, sleep a lot in the winter, and love the cold weather.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

Tiger – I love big cats.

Joshua

Veterinary Technician

Please write a paragraph about your career, what inspired you to get into the animal care field, inspirations, and heart-warming job experiences.

My passion for animals started when I was young and veterinary medicine has been a very rewarding way to make this mission my career. I became a veterinary assistant to gain experience on my path to becoming a veterinarian.

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

When I try to get a kiss from my own dog sometimes she just smacks me in the face instead. If I have a scratch on my face, it’s most likely because she did it.

Rachel M.

Veterinary Assistant

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

One of my cat’s favorite spots to pee is on my brother’s bed, so that’s pretty funny.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

A platypus because I’m just living my life.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

A grizzly bear because they are big, dangerous, stuffed animals. They look so cuddly and walking one would mean no one would stop to talk to me.

Madison B.

Veterinary Assistant

Please write a paragraph about your career, what inspired you to get into the animal care field, inspirations, and heart-warming job experiences.
I am currently in my gap year after graduating with an animal science degree from Purdue in May. I’m awaiting vet school acceptances at this moment. Upon getting into vet school, I aspire to eventually open a practice of my own and practice on companion animals.

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.
In one of my animal science courses at Purdue, I had to go to the swine farm at 5 am and vaccinate 200 piglets with one other person. The piglets were about 30 pounds so they were getting kind of heavy as the morning went on, and they were running around their pen like psychos so we basically had to tackle them to stop them from running away. Meaning- I was diving straight into manure for 3 hours. My body hurt for 3 days after, and I had thrown my clothes away after 5 washes that didn’t get the manure stench out…

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?
Probably a sloth because I can be completely content laying around doing absolutely nothing all day.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
I know crowns aren’t exotic and easily accessible, but I would have a Jersey cow because they seriously have the sweetest faces. Their eyelashes are so long and adorable!

Room Assistants

Allie I.

Room Assistant

Bio Coming Soon.

Sara L.

Room Assistant

Bio Coming Soon.

Nicole

Room Assistant

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

As an animal lover, I cannot help wanting to help animals in need. As I was getting ready for bed I heard a cat outside meowing. I was already in PJs and thought no one would see me in the dark. Just as I was about to get the cat, my neighbor came home. I hid behind a large tree but the motion lights caught me and my neighbor asked what I was doing. I told him about the cat and he said, “only that would happen to you.”

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

I would compare myself to a goat. I always find myself in crazy situations and sometimes cannot get myself out. I’m funny, sometimes without even trying to be and my quirky personality will put a smile on your face.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

I would want a sloth. They are calm and easy-going. They always appear to be smiling and would be a wonderful pet to tell your secrets to. Sometimes it would do me good to just sit and chill and move as slow as a sloth.

Lynn

Pharmacy Assistant

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

I was helping the technician get a fecal sample from a dog. The technician went in to get the fecal and pulled out a baby carrot!

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

A cat – I like to sleep and have people wait on me.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

A duck. I’ve always wanted a duck to be bonded to me and follow me everywhere!

Rachel W.

Room Assistant

I first got introduced to Coyne Vet Center when I job shadowed Dr. Barenie through my vocational class in high school. I job shadowed her for three days. I also met Dr. Szalay while I was there. Dr. Szalay opened my eyes to possibly working at Coyne as a Kennel Attendant that way I could get more experience. I went through all the steps and here I am, working at Coyne! I have always wanted to be a veterinarian because I love animals and I think being able to help them would be the best job ever. Working here has really made me confident that becoming a veterinarian is truly what I want to do. I want all owners to know that our pets love us day in and day out, no matter what mood you’re in, what you look like, or what kind of a day you have had, so try to love THEM as much as they love you.

If Rachel could defy the laws of nature she would breed together her two favorite animals a wolf and a shark. This would make the furriest fish in the sea or a very large wolf with a mouth full of huge shark teeth. She would name it the “Warkf”.

Every year when Rachel and her family go on a fishing trip and on the last day of the trip, her family has a tradition of jumping into the lake. All of them must jump in.

Faith C.

Room Assistant

After I rescued my dog from an animal shelter I began to love helping animals and realized that was what I wanted to do.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?
I would compare myself do a dog because they are loyal.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
I would have a hippo because they have been my favorite animal since I was little. They are also not common to be a pet and it would be cool.

Client Service Representatives

Rosalynn P.

Client Service Representative

Bio Coming Soon.

Cody

Client Service Representative

I, like many others, have loved dogs my whole life. I have a few other family members who have encouraged me to join this field.I’ve always enjoyed customer service jobs and can’t imagine myself doing anything else.

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

When traveling on the back roads at night I always come across animals (racoons, possums, foxes, etc.). I always pull to the side of the road and shoo them to the side so they do not get hit by a car.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

I would compare myself to a bat. They are dark and mysterious but also cute and sweet!

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

Either a horse or a horse or a cow. I’ve always wanted a farm that has 1 of every animal.

Allison G.

Client Service Representative Shift Lead

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.
We did a “battle of the bands” team-building exercise. We had groups, costumes, and laughed until we were in tears over the joy we brought each other.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?
It would have to be a doggie. I am loyal, protective, and enjoy laying around and snuggling.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
A horse. I loved riding, watching them play, run, trot, and just be the majestic beauties that they are.

Rayne C.

Client Service Representative

Please write a paragraph about your career, what inspired you to get into the animal care field, inspirations, and heart-warming job experiences. (example: Dr. Dog went to School Name after they were inspired by a childhood experience with their own pet dealing with illness.)

All my life I have loved animals and always had them while growing up, so being able to come and work at Coyne has been such a dream. I get surrounded by all different kinds of cute faces all day, who wouldn’t love that? I also get to work with amazingly talented people who have taught me so much already. Working here has been one of the best experiences in my life so far and I am very grateful for that.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

If I could have any animal in the world as a pet, I think I would want to have an elephant. Elephants have been one of my favorite animals since I was young, so being able to have one as a pet would be insanely cool. I wouldn’t even need to have a car to get around, I could just hop on the back of my elephant and have them take me everywhere.

Lauren M.

Customer Service Representative

Please write a paragraph about your career, what inspired you to get into the animal care field, inspirations, and heart-warming job experiences.

There has never been a time in my life where I haven’t had a fuzzy friend at home, and growing up with animals has created the biggest soft spot for them in my heart. When it comes to pets, my biggest inspiration is my mom, who is possibly even more of a dog-lover than me. She is the one who taught me about the significance of adopting, working through rescues, and giving every dog a chance. At work, I get to be surrounded by animals and animal-lovers each and every day and get to be a part of the love that happens between a pet and their family. I remember my first official day at work, and a woman came to pick-up the pawprint of a furry friend she had to say goodbye to. After handing her the pawprint, she gave me the biggest hug and thanked our team for the support she received. It was one of the most heartwarming experiences and genuine display of just how much our pets mean to each of us and how that love can bring us together.

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

My family and I live on the lake and our pup Pip absolutely LOVES being on the boats but HATES water. One day last summer we were getting ready to go out on the boat when all of a sudden I hear a big splash. I immediately turned around, ready to tease my sister for falling in, to find Pip treading water because she tried and failed to get in the boat that we kept on a lift before it was lowered. She was absolutely fine and it showed that she can actually swim really well, but to this day she still despises getting in the water.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

I would compare myself to a dolphin because they are playful and social. I also love being in or near the water, whether it be swimming, at the beach or on a boat, so I definitely feel I match up with them being sea creatures.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

I would have a sea otter because they are my absolute favorite animal. They just look so cuddly and a video of one showing the person filming how to pet them while squeaking is quite possibly the cutest thing I’ve ever seen.

Madison M.

Client Service Representative

I have wanted to work with animals since I was a little girl, and after losing a dog, I knew that a career in the animal care field was right for me. I want not only to heal sick animals, but provide support for their families during that time as well.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
A giraffe! You’d never struggle to reach anything on the top shelf again.

Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I currently have a lab mix named River. We rescued him from Lakeshore Paws and he is the best boy!

What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
My favorite thing about working with animals is how they can always offer a smile, no matter what.

Samantha E.

Client Service Representative

I’m currently in school for health services management, my degree entails mostly the paperwork side of healthcare, but I’ve always wanted to expand my knowledge in other ways such as veterinary medical management. This is a great way to work and learn in this field.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
I’d love to have a penguin! They are so cute, and are very loving animals as well! If anything it would be like having a dog but a super fast swimming dog that can hold its breath!

Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I have 2 chihuahuas! Short and long hair! Roscoe and Cookie who are seen at Coyne! They love everyone here and are loved as well.

What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
My favorite thing about working with animals is seeing their reactions when I get excited and they react to it too. They know when you’re happy, sad, or mad.

Candyce C.

Client Service Representative

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
A horse because it’s my dream pet.

Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
Yes, two cats and one dog.

What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
I have a strong love for all animals and my favorite thing about working with them is making a change to their lives.

Lauren M.

Customer Service Representative

Please write a paragraph about your career, what inspired you to get into the animal care field, inspirations, and heart-warming job experiences.

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

Kennel Team

Alex W.

Kennel Attendant

Bio Coming Soon.

Emily K.

Kennel Attendant

Bio Coming Soon.

Rosalie F.

Kennel Attendant

Bio Coming Soon.

Elise B.

Kennel Attendant

Bio Coming Soon.

Cheryl A.

Daycare Attendant

Bio Coming Soon.

Patty O.

Daycare Attendant

Bio Coming Soon.

Cryst’n

Kennel Attendant

I am currently studying Biological Sciences and will eventually go to Vet School. I’ve basically been saying that is what I wanted to do since elementary school. For as long as I can remember, I have always had this love for animals. I always wanted to be around them and care for them. I’ve always felt I had a deep connection with them and that animals understood me in a way that people did not. That is what has inspired me to get into the animal care field. When I was younger, I lived on Purdue University’s campus with my

Mom and she said that I would always try to catch the squirrels and chipmunks and try to bring them into the house. I guess you can say the animal care field chose me.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

I would compare myself to a lion. Lions are brave, energetic, strong, respect strength in others, and are very goal oriented. I feel that in some way I display all of these qualities. Lions are also very competitive. However, I am more competitive with myself and strive to better myself each day. They also enjoy challenges and are natural born leaders. I’m more of a subtle leader. By that, I mean I lead more through my actions and work ethic. Plus, lions are fierce and are extremely confident in themselves which I admire.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

This is such a hard question for me to answer. If I could, I would have a whole zoo. I can narrow it down to two animals; a white bengal tiger and a monkey. White bengal tigers have such a beautiful coat and are such interesting animals to learn about. I love their personality too. They’re endangered and I would much rather be a part of their conservation. Monkeys are just so cute to me. They are like tiny humans and are so intelligent, loyal, independent, and social. Their personality is captivating, and they are always into something

Stephanie S.

Daycare Attendant

Please write a paragraph about your career, what inspired you to get into the animal care field, inspirations, and heart-warming job experiences.

My inspiration came from when my sister became a Vet-Tech, and I really wanted to be part of the animal care field as well.

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

My sister’s dog Brutus chased us with a garden hose through the whole garden. In the end, he was super happy and me and my sister were soaking wet.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

Probably a cat, they’re very sweet and cuddly and independent but also a bit standoff-ish watching the action from a distance.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

Definitely a sloth, they’re just so cute!

Jessica O.

Daycare Attendant

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

Whenever I work with Kim, she always imitates the dogs and makes them sound like how they would if they were humans, and it never fails to make me laugh.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

I would compare myself to a turtle because I could either lay in the sun or hang out in the water and I would be protected by my shell.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

I would have a koala bear as a pet because they like to sleep all day and so do I. They seem very cuddly.

Madison J.

Kennel Attendant

I really like working with dogs in daycare because they’re all just so cute and adorable, they also love to cuddle, so how can you not love them? I love when dogs want to give me a big hug or if they’re tired, so they want to lay on my lap, it’s literally the cutest thing I’ve ever seen. I also think it’s awesome because I get to work with one of my best friends so that’s a good thing about coming to work.

If Madison’s dogs lived in the movie Secret Life of Pets she believes that her dog Pluto would find the closest shoe he could since he believes that shoes are toys. Her other dog Emma would find something on the counter like the bread or bagels and take it into the living room and tear it apart.

Megan

Kennel Shift Lead

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.

My dog and I have this fun game where I give her a bath and then she immediately runs and jumps on my bed.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

Well, I took a quiz online because I honestly didn’t know. I got a penguin since they are resilient, intelligent, witty, and loyal to those they are close to and I felt like that was pretty accurate.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

I wouldn’t choose anything over my 10-year-old beagle mix Dixie because she is perfect.

Julia M

Kennel Attendant

Share a funny story that happened at work or a funny animal-related story that has happened to you.
The funniest thing that happens is when certain dogs steal the water bowl in daycare and then jump into the pool with them.

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?
A cat because I’m always curious.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
A snow leopard because I love big cats and I would love to train it to be friendly.

Kim

Daycare Attendant

I started working in the veterinary field 14 years ago, with Dr. Coyne, as a kennel attendant. I’ve learned so much working with all these talented and knowledgeable doctors and technicians. However, working in doggie daycare has been so rewarding and enjoyable. I’m obviously an avid dog lover and I’ve built such a bond with so many dogs (and a lot of owners too). Do you know how some people dread going to their job every day? Not me. I look forward to seeing my favorite 4 legged friends. They make my days brighter. It’s very rewarding to gain a shy, timid dog’s trust and watch them come out of their shell. I truly care and love them. Dogs are my life.

“I think dogs are the most amazing creatures. They give unconditional love. For me, they are the role model for being alive.” -Gilda Radner

If Kim had to set up her dogs’ dating profiles they would read as follows:

Stefan: Ball enthusiast. Loves his mother. Enjoys snuggling on the couch. Expert bully stick chewer. Loves treats and ice cream. Enjoys long walks. One look at me and you’ll fall in love instantly. I’m adorable.

Damon: Opinionated. Strong. Boisterous. Loves naps. Enjoys car rides. Loves his father.

I love to kiss, even if you don’t want me to. I’m very loving, but if you do something I don’t like, I will eat you!

Kaylin B.

Kennel Team

Bio Coming Soon.

Sierra S.

Kennel Attendant

Bio coming soon.

Autumn

Kennel Attendant

Bio coming soon.

Leeah T.

Kennel Attendant

I’ve known from a very young age that animals have been my source of happiness and peace. Reciprocating the love they give me is my biggest priority. I am studying Veterinary Science at Purdue Northwest.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
Dachshunds are my favorite dog because my childhood dog was one and I fell in love. My first tattoo is of him because they are so important to me.

Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I have a Yorkshire Terrier named Chewy, Dachshund Chihuahua named Rosie, and a Schnauzer named Abby. I also have 2 cats, Miracle and Leo. And another cat Daisy who I own with my girlfriend.

What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
You can feel their appreciation for you once you’ve made them feel better which is so rewarding to be able to communicate with the animal.

Sydni W.

Kennel Attendant

I’ve always loved animals all my life and it has been a dream to work with them.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
I would like to have a pet raccoon. I think they’re so cute and cuddly. A perfect companion.

Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I do have a pet. I have a chihuahua and her name is Hershey.

What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
My favorite thing about working with animals is just making them feel better and they joy they bring me just by seeing them.

Amber B.

Kennel Attendant

Bio coming soon.

Elizabeth P.

Kennel Attendant

I have always grown up around dogs and caring for them.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
I would want to have a panda. I love the color of them and they look so cuddly all the time.

Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I have a Goldendoodle named Beck

What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
My favorite thing about working with animals is seeing them get excited every time you walk through the door.

Grooming Team

Alyssa M.

Grooming Assistant

Bio Coming Soon.

Amanda W.

Groomer

Please write a paragraph about your career, what inspired you to get into the animal care field, inspirations, and heart-warming job experiences.

My sister in law asked me to help her at her shop (I do love animals). Then I got stuck grooming for 10 years and haven’t stopped!

If you could compare yourself to any animal, which would it be and why?

A cat because I’m fierce and friendly at the same time.

If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?

A Siberian Tiger or Polar Bear because they are my favorite animals. Beautiful and majestic.

Kristen

Groomer

I have always wanted to work with my mom at the pet shop she worked at. At 15 I did. Then she inspired me to go and learn grooming which is what I do now. My love for animals is so strong that anytime I see a stray animal on the street I try to locate the owner or take the animal to a shelter. A heartwarming experience I’ve had is when I had to groom a Lagotto Romagnolo for the first time which made me very nervous. When the groom was complete the owner was very happy and has since requested me to do their grooming in the future.

Kristen’s recommendation for everyone to try at least once would be to get a massage with hot rocks.

If her pets lived in the movie a Secret Life of Pets… her dog Cuddles would panic because she was left alone and chew on everything all while her sister Lucy would be sleeping the day away.