From our veterinarians and technicians to our client service representatives, every member of our team shares a commitment to providing compassionate care.

Dr. Walter E. Krzak, Jr.
Dr. Walter E. Krzak, Jr.

Dr. Walter E. Krzak, Jr., is the main vet and owner. He has been a veterinarian for over 30 years and graduated from the University of Illinois College of veterinary medicine with a B.S. and doctorate in veterinary medicine. In 1991, he received the Hoskins Award for scientific writing in recognition of a study that he co-authored on horse behavior in undergraduate studies. His current fur-babies are four domestic shorthair cats.  Smoke is 21 and has a great life, Pinto is one year old, and, at six-months old, Whispy and Duke are a sister and brother pair.

Dr. Krzak has recognized his compassion for animals since an early age. He was fortunate to grow up with many dogs, cats, horses, and knew animal health and wellbeing would be his career. He enjoys horseback riding and hiking, walking the extended family’s dogs, maintaining a native prairie garden, trips to Chicago’s many wonderful museums, and vacations to the mountains of California and Colorado.

Tricia O’Lena, Practice Manager

Tricia is our Clinic Practice Manager with over seven years’ experience in leading and supporting our clinic, known for her approachable nature and strong organizational skills, she takes pride in creating a welcoming environment for both staff and patients.

Outside of work, Tricia’s life is just as full and vibrant. She is a proud wife and mother of 4 wonderful girls. Her home is lively and full of love, shared with 4 dogs and 4 cats-making her no stranger to multitasking chaos.

Annie Kawalt, Clinic Supervisor

Since joining the clinic in 2018, Annie has become an essential part of the team as our Assistant Manager and resident “get-it-done” person. She’s a certified canine behaviorist and trainer (a talent she’s always excited to use when the opportunity arises). When she’s not keeping the clinic on track, she’s powered by coffee, talking about her latest read, or hanging out with her ruby Cavalier, Ginny, our unofficial greeter and morale booster.

Bridget, Senior Vet Tech

Bridget has been a valued part of our clinic family for seven years. As our Lead Certified Veterinary Technician, she’s known for her strong work ethic, compassionate care, and natural ability to make both pets and their people feel at ease. She loves building relationships with clients and takes pride in helping every visit feel comfortable and reassuring. At home, Bridget shares her heart with her two cats, Stark and Pepper, and her rescued dog, Lily – who remind her every day why she loves what she does. We’re so grateful to have Bridget on our team!

Joanna, Vet Tech

Joanna has been working in the veterinary field for 10 years and brings both experience and heart to our team. She has a true passion for helping animals and is dedicated to making every patient feel safe and cared for. When she’s not at the clinic, Joanna enjoys relaxing at home watching movies or heading out on a hike. She shares her home with her husband and her three cats – Ozzy, Morrissey, and Lita – who keep life entertaining and full of love.

Susan, Reception

Susan joined our team at the front desk as a CSR in January of 2022.  She loves greeting all our clients (and their humans) when they come in for a vet visit! She is a long-time resident of New Lenox and has a BA in English from Lewis University. She loves fancy teas, reading and writing, and working in her cottage garden. She has two silly and mischievous mixed-breed rescue dogs, Elton and Huxley.

Katie, Reception

Katie has been a receptionist here since 2024 and has been working in veterinary medicine since 2022. She is passionate about helping pets and their owners and enjoys being part of a team that supports animal health and well-being. Outside of work, Katie loves doing makeup, playing video games, and cooking. She shares her home with two dogs and three cats, one of whom she lovingly bottle-fed from just three days old! We are incredibly lucky to have Katie as a part of our team!

Alyssa, Pharmacy Tech

Alyssa is a veterinarian assistant who joined the clinic in August 2022. Alyssa enjoys assisting the team with their own pets for many years as a veterinary assistant. She is also a pharmacy technician and enjoys her education and knowledge to help ensure patients receive safe and appropriate treatments. Outside of work, Alyssa is the proud pet parent of Winston, a Boston Terrier she rescued in October 2024.

Shanon, Attendant

Shannon is a valued member of our kennel attendant team who enjoys caring for our patients and keeping our clinic spotless! She likes assisting with veterinary technician duties whenever she can and is currently attending Joliet Junior College, working towards her degree as a Veterinary Technician!  We love watching her grow her skills and passion for helping animals!