Meet Our Team in Portage
We wouldn’t be the veterinary practice we are today without our team of phenomenal veterinarians and staff members. We’re proud to have so many talented individuals working hard every day to help pets and their families. Take a few minutes to read on and learn more about us! When you're ready to meet us in person, call us at (219) 763-3311.
Veterinarians
Dr. Stephanie Caverly
Dr. Stephanie Caverly
Veterinarian
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment at this point in your life?
Aside from becoming a veterinarian…earning my private pilot’s license.
If you could give one piece of advice to pet owners, what would it be?
Plan for when you are not there and keep them active.
Favorite comfort food:
Chimichangas and pierogis
3 things people might be surprised to know about you
I have my private pilot’s license, I am a 10-year State Champion accordion player, and I love to play tennis.
Dr. Jolynn Rudman
Dr. Jolynn Rudman
Veterinarian
What do you consider your biggest accomplishment at this point in your life?
I’ve practiced for 38 years and every day brings joys – and I’m at home with an incredible team – what more could anyone ask for!
If you could give one piece of advice to pet owners, what would it be?
Slow down, look into your options, and leave your money at home when you first explore pets. This is a life-long adoption, and it should feel good from the beginning
Favorite comfort food?
Anything Serbian
3 things people might be surprised to know about you?
Coming home to our farm is a vacation each day – restful and restoring. Singing in Liturgy keeps me peaceful and grounded. I still enjoy writing letters and sending cards through the mail.
Dr. Adam Fessenden
Dr. Adam Fessenden
Veterinarian
Dr. Adam Fessenden graduated from Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine in May 2019 and started his veterinary career with us in June of 2019. In veterinary school, Dr. Fessenden developed an interest in veterinary dentistry, dermatology, and behavior. He wants owners to know that there are many options available for pets with behavioral problems. Dr. Fessenden also believes that you know your pet’s normal behavior the best out of anyone, so if they are acting out of the ordinary, and seem sick, don’t wait to seek help from a veterinarian. Even if you aren’t sure, or have questions, he is always willing to help. Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Fessenden’s interests include soccer, snowboarding, and travel. If he could, he would spend all his free time in the mountains. Dr. Fessenden also has lived in 3 different countries, including volunteering in Thailand to care for and help find homes for their stray cats and dogs.
Dr. Adrienne Pinks
Dr. Adrienne Pinks
Veterinarian
I graduated class of 2021 from Ross University and attended my clinical year at the University of Illinois. I’ve wanted to be a Vet for as long as I can remember! I grew up with a German Shepard named Shep. We had him for 14 years. Watching him grow old was difficult, but taking care of him at a young age solidified my love for helping pets and my love for senior animals.
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment at this point in your life?
Nothing could compare to becoming a doctor that helps pets!
If you could give one piece of advice to pet owners, what would it be?
Prevention is the best medicine! Also, don’t have lilies in the same house as cats as they are toxic.
3 things people might be surprised to know about you?
I played college softball.
I really enjoy DIY projects and watching HGTV.
I have a car theme of pets (Chevy-horse, Dodge-goat, Bentlee-dog, Jag-cat) Pongo aka PP is my rescue pup and he was an adult when I adopted him so I couldn’t change his name, and Aly is a pitty who is my parents’ dog!
Dr. Alexandra Prescia
Dr. Alexandra Prescia
Veterinarian
I went to school at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. I have wanted to become a veterinarian for as long as I (and my parents) can remember. I have always been fascinated with how the body works and how I can heal sick animals.
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment at this point in your life?
Living out my childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian.
If you could give one piece of advice to pet owners, what would it be?
Always trust your gut instinct- you know your furry babies the best, if they seem off, bring them into the clinic. And always run yearly bloodwork!
3 things people might be surprised to know about you?
I am a native New Yorker, born and raised in New York City.
I have been to Africa twice- having worked on elephants, water buffalo, sable antelope, and much more!
I am a certified scuba diver, my favorite scuba spot being Roatan, Honduras.
Management Team
Jennifer D.
Jennifer D.
Practice Manager, Registered Technician
Favorite quote about animals:
“Animals are such agreeable friends—they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms.” – George Eliot
Favorite comfort food:
Ice cream
Last book(s) you read:
Harry Potter series, by J.K. Rowling
Liz S.
Liz S.
Office Manager
I have always enjoyed being with people and their four-legged family members. After college and various accounting positions, I began my career in the animal care and veterinary field. I owned a business specializing in house-sitting, dog walking and home care at the same time, and worked as a receptionist at a 24-hour emergency facility. After I met and married my wonderful husband, Jim, we moved to Tupelo, Mississippi and I continued to work within the veterinary field. I was hired as a receptionist, trained in-house as a technician and untimely became practice manager. A few years ago, as I drove down Broadway and saw our facility being built, I knew I needed to get back into the veterinary field… and the rest is history!
There were a few moments that truly imprinted in my the importance of connecting with each of our clients.It is an amazing feeling when an owner know that you and your facility will care for their pet as your own.
Liz has a sweet family tradition on Christmas where after they decorate the Christmas tree, they turn out all the lights in the house except for the tree and lay down with their feet under the tree. They take that time to bond, talk about their favorite memories, ask any and all questions, and enjoy the quiet moment of just them.
She has also has learned the importance of the tie on her work scrubs the hard way while getting her daily hug from a golden named Barry!
Stefanie M.
Stefanie M.
Room Assistant Manager
Favorite quote:
The greatest fear Dogs know is the fear that you will not come back.
Favorite comfort food:
Tamales
Last book read:
Can’t remember! I like to skim through magazines and love watching documentaries on animals and different environments.
Ashley C.
Ashley C.
Head Veterinary Technician
Favorite Quote:
“Animals are the bridge between us and the beauty of all that is natural. They show us what’s missing in our lives, and how to love ourselves more completely and unconditionally. They connect us back to who we are, and to the purpose of why we’re here.” ― Trisha McCagh
Favorite comfort food:
My mom’s home cooked puerto rican rice
Last book(s) read:
“Girl wash your face” by Rachel Hollis
Emily B.
Emily B.
Kennel Manager
I went to Purdue and studied Animal Sciences because I wanted to be able to be a part of the lives of animals and their health. Being able to help animals be happy at the veterinarian or comfortable when they’re staying at a place away from home is the most rewarding thing about my job.
If you could have any animal as a pet, what would it be and why?
An elephant, just because they are honestly some of the most interesting animals. I swear I could watch them for hours.
Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I have two American Bullies, one is named Evie Mae and the other is Pete.
What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
My favorite thing about working with animals is getting to see a variety of different things every day. No one day is ever the same as the last, that’s for sure.
Technicians/Assistants
Bethany G.
Bethany G.
Technician Shift Leader
Favorite quote about animals:
“Dogs have owners, cats have staff.” – Anonymous
Favorite comfort food:
Ice cream
Last book you read:
Girl on a Train by Paula Hawkins
Savannah F.
Savannah F.
Veterinary Assistant
What has been your most rewarding moment working with animals?
Establishing a relationship with not only the pets but also with their owners, as well.
Favorite comfort food:
Pasta
Last book you read:
The Last Ride by Nicholas Sparks
Melissa P.
Melissa P.
Veterinary Technician
Bio coming soon.
Amber P.
Amber P.
Veterinary Assistant
Favorite animal quote:
“True compassion is showing kindness towards animals, without expecting anything in return.”
Favorite comfort food:
Fudgy Brownies
Last book I read:
Gone Girl
Samantha M.
Samantha M.
Veterinary Assistant
Favorite quote:
“Dog’s come when called, cat’s take a message and get back to you later”
Favorite comfort food:
Alfredo
Last book read:
Harry Potter series
Brittni R.
Brittni R.
Veterinary Assistant
Favorite Animal Quote:
“When I look into the eyes of an animal, I see a living being, I see a friend, I see a soul.” – A.D Williams
Favorite Comfort Food:
Biscuits and Gravy
Last Book you Read:
The Divergent series
Megan M.
Megan M.
Veterinary Technician Shift Leader
I was in high school and went out on a limb and decided to apply to tech school. I was accepted to the Vet Tech Institute and fell in love with animal medicine. Being able to work hand and hand with the doctors, clients, and pets to make a difference is my passion
If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
A whale, I love to watch them in their natural environment but would love to have one to watch whenever I would like.
Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I have a Boxer named Cricket and 2 cats – Astro and Orbit.
What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
Being able to put blood, sweat and tears into a case and having a positive outcome for that animal. Having your hard work pay off makes you feel amazing.
Room Assistants
Anastasia S.
Anastasia S.
Room Assistant
Favorite quote:
“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened” ~Anatole France
Favorite comfort food:
Warm brownies
Last book read:
I’ve Got My Eyes on You by Mary Higgins Clark
Sam M.
Sam M.
Room Assistant
I have a degree in theater but will be enrolling in Penn Foster to further my education in animal care. After having worked in a shelter after graduating, I was inspired to do all I can to help make animals’ lives as positive as possible.
If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
I would have a pet owl because they are incredibly beautiful and powerful animals, and I just think they are super cool.
Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I have a pointer mix named Titus who is a drama queen and full of love.
What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
My favorite thing about working with animals is knowing that I’m helping make their lives as happy and healthy as possible.
Customer Service Representatives
Ally M.
Ally M.
Client Service Representative Shift Leader & Room Assistant
Growing up I only had a dog named Penny who lived with my grandparents. I was never able to have a pet that lived at home with me because my parents didn’t like animals. Once I became an adult I was finally able to get my own pets (currently just adopted my 5th dog) and I was able to start a job that works with animals daily. I can now live out my dreams of becoming a Veterinarian. I also now get to enjoy helping animals and working toward my goals at the same time.
If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
Platypus. I love everything about them including their 1/2 beaver 1/2 duck bodies!
Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I currently have 6 pets: Jack, Cocoa, Dagger, Badger, Nala are my 5 dogs and then I have a tortoise named Shellshock
What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
Animals are amazing creatures but they aren’t able to tell us when they are hurt so we are their advocates. I love seeing an animal that came in hurt or sick and leaves with the care they needed. Only to call in a few days to hear that they have made a full recovery.
Tonya T.
Tonya T.
Client Service Representative Shift Leader
What has been your most rewarding moment working with animals?
My most rewarding moment was helping a past client raise funds for a much-needed surgery for her pet.
Favorite quote about animals:
“We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.” – Immanuel Kant
Favorite comfort food:
Pizza
Madi M
Madi M
Client Service Representative Shift Leader
Quote:
“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than you love yourself.” –Josh Billings
Food:
Brownies
Book:
These Things Hidden by Heather Gudenkauf
Karissa M.
Karissa M.
Client Service Representative
I went to school for Medical Billing & Coding, and realized I wanted to be able to help other people. I started by working for Patient Registration at a hospital, and I knew I loved what I did, but wanted to take it up a notch and work with animals! I’ve always loved animals and I want to be able to have more interactions with them.
If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
I would want a pet Penguin. I love penguins so much, they are cute, funny, and they’ve always brought a smile to my face when I see them and see pictures of them.
Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
Yes! I have a Corgi named Luna, a cat named Cuddles, another cat named Alexis, and two Guinea Pigs named Scott and Deku!
What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
My favorite thing about working with animals would be just getting to play with them and help them feel better if they are ill. Animals will always hold a special place in my heart; I just love their kind eyes and soft fur!
Jenni B
Jenni B
Client Service Representative
I started my interest in the animal care field when I participated in a vet camp during middle school. The knowledge that I gained there is what helped me decided what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Whether it was to become a veterinarian, a veterinary technician, or a veterinary receptionist, they all help in caring for animals.
If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
I would choose a Leopard because they rest in trees and can be very playful.
Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I have a pit/lab mix named Appa (from Avatar) and a chihuahua/terrier mix named Baby
What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
My favorite thing is connecting with the animals brought in and making unique connections with the parents.
Dawn S.
Dawn S.
Client Service Representative
I have always loved animals. I have had pets from a skunk to all rodents, cats, dogs, and much more. If I get upset or stressed over anything, holding my dog instantly relaxes and calms me. I would be lost without animals in my life.
If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
An otter. I just love how playful they always seem to be.
Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I have two cats, Camille and Faith who are 19 and 20 years old. I also have 1 dog, Lucy, who is 4 years old.
What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
They don’t judge you and they always let you know when they are happy, which in turn makes me happy.
Kennel Attendants
Lindsay T.
Lindsay T.
Kennel Attendant
Favorite Animal Quote:
“A house is not a home without a pet”
Favorite Comfort Food:
My neighbors’ homemade Puerto Rican Rice
Last Book you Read:
To All the Boy’s I’ve Loved Before Series
Brittany C.
Brittany C.
Kennel Attendant
Favorite Animal quote:
“An animal’s eyes have the power to speak great language.” – Martin Buber
Favorite comfort food:
Polish Sausage and sauerkraut.
Last book I read:
Twilight Saga New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
Juan G.
Juan G.
Kennel Attendant
Favorite Animal Quote:
“The least I can do is speak out for those who cannot speak for themselves.” – Jane Goodall
Favorite Comfort Food:
S’mores Poptarts
Last Book you Read:
The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History by Elizabeth Kolbert
Dani D.
Dani D.
Kennel Attendant
Bio coming soon!
Emma N.
Emma N.
Kennel Shift Lead
If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
Definitely a dog. I love having dogs not only as pets but as part of my family. They are always so eager to make you happy and go on any adventure with you. I cannot imagine my life without my dogs.
Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I have three dogs and two cats! The dogs are Kylo (black lab), Rey (german shepherd), and Maddie (cockapoo). My two cats are longhaired Norwegian forest cats, and their names are Stanley and Madison.
What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
My favorite thing about working with animals is that you never know what the day is going to bring you. Every day you get to meet a whole variety of different animals that come with different stories. Working in boarding and daycare also allows you to form relationships with the regular dogs (and their parents), and we love those dogs like they are our own!
Delaney S.
Delaney S.
Kennel Attendant
A dog named Indy was the start of my passion for animal care. She was a neglected twelve-year-old black lab running the streets in East Chicago and my first foster. Indy then led to about sixty more foster dogs and made me want to impact more animals’ lives.
If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
Dog are amazing pets that strive on pleasing their owners with so much loyalty so they are my favorite pet that I could ever have. But besides a dog I would love to own a cow. Cows seem so friendly plus, they are very cute.
Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I currently own an English Mastiff, Khaleesi (Nugget), a black lab puppy, Hank, and three French Bulldogs, Max, Luna, and Lincoln.
What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
My favorite thing about working with animals is the bonds I can create with them. I also love helping animals come out of their shell.
Mia E.
Mia E.
Kennel Attendant
I was inspired to get into this career from my mom. My mom has always fostered animals and we are always helping any animal we can. She really gave me the love I have for animals. My mom has always wanted to save any animal she could which has shaped me into who I am today.
If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
I would have a pig. I have always wanted a pet pig. I love going to see all the animals at the fair and would love to have my own little pet pig.
Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
Yes, I have 3 dogs named Puma (German Shepard), Muski (Pitbull), and Oaklee (American Leopard Hound). I also have 4 cats named Tigger, Willow, Bella, and Charlie. The other animals I own are turtles, a bearded dragon, a tortoise, and a ball python snake.
What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
Working with animals has a lot of perks. You get to see so many new dogs and cats and love them. Animals always have so much love to give and it can really turn a bad day better.
Kylie G.
Kylie G.
Kennel Attendant
Ever since I was a little girl I knew I wanted to work with animals. I’ve grown up having animals in my home from dogs to cats to hamsters. I always dreamt of becoming a veterinarian one day! I knew I definitely wanted to work in the animal care field after losing two of my childhood dogs years ago. I want to do it for them.
If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would it be, and why?
Otter! They’re so soft and look so cuddly and friendly, not to mention their cute faces! I would LOVE to own one.
Do you currently have any pets? What type and what are their names?
I currently have 3 dogs! Landon is an American Pitbull Terrier, Lily is a Staffordshire Bull Terrier Lab mix, and my new Golden puppy!
What is your favorite thing about working with animals?
My favorite thing about working with animals has to be making connections and building relationships with them and their owners!
Kaylee R.
Kaylee R.
Kennel Attendant
Lindsey R.
Lindsey R.
Kennel Attendant
Alexis R.
Alexis R.
Kennel Attendant
Grooming
Brittany S.
Brittany S.
Groomer
Favorite Quote:
“The more I learn about people, the more I like my dog.”
Favorite comfort food:
Pasta!!
Last book(s) read:
The Game of Thrones series
Leah B.
Leah B.
Grooming Assistant
Favorite animal Quote:
“Meow” means “woof” In cat.” – George Carlin
Favorite comfort food:
Stuffed Shells
Last Book Read:
The Lincoln Lawyer By Michael Connelly
Kayla R.
Kayla R.
Groomer
Housekeeping
Karen P.
Karen P.
Maintenance
What has been your most rewarding moment working with animals?
Every day has a new rewarding moment. It makes me feel good that the animals I work with trust and love me, and that I understand them and will do my absolute best to make them comfortable and happy.
Favorite comfort food:
Ice cream
Last book you read:
Indian Country by Philip Caputo
Most unusual pet you’ve owned?
A 6ft Colombian boa constrictor—her name was Pantera, and she loved eating ice cream!