The Animal Wellness Center is about family, so it's no surprise that among our own family you'll find experienced staff members who understand that our clients do not think of their animal companions as "just pets." You'll also find that among our staff family are staff that are … family!

And now, let us introduce our family to yours:

Lisa Walker is our office manager, but it might be more appropriate to describe her as the "do-it-all" person in the practice. She is in charge of all the little details that keep things running smoothly.

A graduate of Western Career College, Lisa brings her lifelong love of animals and 11 years of professional experience to her job at the Animal Wellness Center. "I always wanted to have a job that I would be doing for my entire life," says Lisa. "I love being around all the animals, and I love helping clients become educated. There is a new wave of choice with alternative medicine today."

Lisa's family includes two daughters: Chelsey and Shana. The Walker family includes 3 dogs, 2 cats and 3 horses.

The Walkers are avid horsewomen, and spend as much time as possible with their horses. The family competes in horse shows almost every week, and the Walkers are active members of the California Gymkana Association.

Susan Mann,  Receptionist

Susan has been our head receptionist since May 2003. She is the efficient voice you hear on the phone when making appointments and is here to check you in with a smile. In addition to her work with us, Susan makes time to work with horses.  She has eight of her own.

For fun, Susan rides with California Gymkhana Association and enjoys camping with friends. She looks forward to a long career working with the friends she has made at the Animal Wellness Center. Unless she wins the Lotto and moves to her own small island. In that case she has promised to write often!

Kari Pollock, Veterinary Technician .

Kari started as a technician at the Animal Wellness Center in August of 2004.  Kari has been working in the veterinary field since 1998 and as a veterinary technician since 2000. Kari's interest in animals started at a young age. She grew up in riding and showing horses and raising livestock. She has also been involved with Guide Dogs for the Blind since 1997. Kari has a black lab and a cockatoo.

Jeanette Ryan, Receptionist

Jeanette retired from the State of California in October 2003. After being a client at Animal Wellness Center since 2001, she decided to join our team. She has 1 dog, 1 cat, 2 parakeets and a horse. Her love of animals began as a typical horse crazy kid. She rode hunter style in earlier years and now is attempting to learn dressage.

Ann Guttenberg, Receptionist

Ann has been a client of the Animal Wellness Center since 2001, and joined our hospital as a receptionist in October,  2006.  Her involvement with animals began early when she rescued a homeless cat at the age of 2.  Currently her family includes 5 human children and 4 fur children (1 dog and 3 cats).  Her other interests include music, poetry and victorian architecture.  Ann says "Animal Wellness Center is a great place for me to be.  All day I am surrounded by animals and the people who love them."

Melina Calcagno, Veterinary Technician.

Melina joined the Wellness Team October 2007. She graduated from the Community College of Denver. Melina is deaf and fluent in American Sign Language as well as being a very accomplished lip reader. She is very active in the Deaf Community.  She shares her Davis home with her husband Michael, sons Jason and Tyler, and three dogs. Melina is an avid fan of Scooby Doo.

Kate Shumway, Veterinary Technician.

Kate has been active in the animal field since 2004. She came to work with us October 2007. She is an east coast transplant and shares her home with a border collie and 2 cats. Kate's interests include raptor medicine and emergency medicine for both humans and animals.

Claire McGill, R.V.T.

Claire first came to Animal Wellness Center as a volunteer in October 2003. In March of 2005 she became a registered nurse after graduating from Western Career College. She has 2 boys and they all enjoy time in the great outdoors. She is currently in school working toward a nursing degree. It is her hope to become a nurse practitioner.

Nicole Escobedo, Veterinary Technician

Nicole has been in the animal field since high school. She graduated from Western Career College in 1995. She lives with her son Jacob, 2 cats and 2 dogs. She is president of the Tinkerbelle fan club. Nicole LOVES Disneyland and frequents the park often.