Dr. Angela Duke

Founder, Owner, Veterinarian

Dr. Duke began her career in medicine working as a paramedic in the early 1990s.  Her shift to veterinary medicine began when she decided to change careers and attend veterinary school in 1996.  Dr. Duke graduated from the University of Illinois, College of Veterinary Medicine in 2000.  She has worked in Chicago for the past 20+ years focusing on small animals including dogs, cats and all exotic pets.  Dr. Duke’s major focus is canine and feline medicine, however, she has a great interest in exotic pet medicine as well.  Dr. Duke has had the good fortune to train side by side with Dr. Sue Horton at Chicago Exotics in Skokie for four years and Dr. Pete Sakas at Niles Bird Clinic for three years, in addition to her extensive experience with dogs and cats. Duke Animal Hospital was opened by Dr. Duke in May 2011, initially as a house call practice and progressing into a permanent full scale veterinary facility which opened at 3941 N. Ashland in Chicago in April of 2012.  Duke Animal Hospital is a state of the art veterinary facility providing wellness care, emergency medical support and illness treatment for all pets. Dr. Duke’s vision includes caring for companion pets from their juvenile period through their geriatric years providing high quality medical care and guidance for the pet and their human partners.Dr. Duke is pictured with two of her three cats (Elsa and Anna) and her late dog, Gidgit. She also has a cat named Lady Gaga, and two rescued stray dogs, Candy Ann and Katie, who were found wandering the streets of Chicago.  They are now living the life of luxury with their own personal dog beds, fluffy blankets, pillows, and cushions spread all over Dr. Duke's house!

• Dr. Duke is a member of the following organizations:

  • American Veterinary Medical Association
  • American Animal Hospital Association
  • Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association
  • Chicago Veterinary Medical Association
  • American Association of Feline Practitioners
  • Association of Avian Veterinarians
  • Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians
  • Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians
  • Chicago Turtle Club
  • Chicago Herpetological Society
  • House Rabbit Society of Chicago
  • Greater Chicago Ferret Association
  • The Critter Corral

   

Dr. Ashley Alore

Team Medical Director

Dr. Ashley Alore graduated with her doctorate in 2015 from the University of Minnesota's Veterinary School. She began her career in Wisconsin, working with companion animals and dairy cows in the mixed animal medicine field. Originally from Downers Grove, Dr. Alore moved back to Chicago to spend be closer to her fiance and her family, having two sisters, a nephew, and a niece. Aside from working with cats and dogs, Dr. Alore enjoys working with exotics as well, having particular experience with ferrets, rabbits, and guinea pigs. She also really enjoys surgeries, and gaining insight and honing her craft more with each new case. Aside from practicing medicine, Dr. Alore enjoys crocheting blankets, painting abstract art, and playing board games. She has a passion for travel and shares her home with her two wonderful cats, Peebs and Xander (pictured).

Dr. Mark Sadler

Team Medical Director

Dr. Sadler joined the Duke Animal Hospital team in September 2019. He grew up in northern Illinois before moving to Alabama for college where he earned his Bachelors of Science Degree from Auburn University as a University Honors Scholar. He then returned to the midwest to receive his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree from the University of Illinois. He has experience in emergency and critical care as well as general practice, and enjoys taking on challenging cases. Dr. Sadler is a big proponent of client education and has interests in surgery, clinical pathology, and emergency care. In his free time he enjoys playing sports, exercising, catching the latest movies, spending time with friends, and traveling.

Dr. Madeline Benjamin

Associate Veterinarian

In Spring of 2024, our team had the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Madeline Benjamin as an esteemed associate veterinarian. Dr. Benjamin's journey into veterinary medicine is a testament to her unwavering passion for animal care. Graduating with a Major in Biology and Minor in Chemistry from the University of Iowa, Dr. Benjamin's early experiences at a veterinary clinic solidified her dedication to the field. Pursuing her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, she immersed herself in various endeavors, including serving as Vice President of the Human-Animal Bond Association. Her commitment extended beyond academia as she collaborated with prisons, facilitating the pairing of inmates with shelter dogs for service dog training—an initiative showcasing her compassion and dedication to animal welfare.

During her collegiate journey, Dr. Benjamin also actively participated in the Veterinary Business Association and lent her expertise to the Wildlife Medical Clinic, further enriching her understanding of diverse aspects within the field.

Bringing her wealth of experience to our clinic, Dr. Benjamin is poised to forge meaningful connections with pet parents and their beloved companions. Her return to Chicago, accompanied by her beloved Fox Terrier/Pitbull mix, Noe, and her trusty bearded dragon, Lady, underscores her deep-rooted ties to the community.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Dr. Benjamin finds solace in the outdoors, culinary adventures, and the gripping narratives of horror thrillers.

Dr. Hilary Coulombe

Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Coulombe joined Duke Animal Hospital in the spring of 2021. Having graduated from Kansas State University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2017, she has been practicing in the Chicagoland area for several years. She is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and Chicago Veterinary Medical Association. Dr. Coulombe's approach to medicine is to establish meaningful relationships with clients in order to care for her patients through all life stages. She believes in helping her clients understand preventative care and the benefits it can yield in the long-run to avoid issues in the future. Dr. Coulombe's special interests in the field are internal medicine, and senior wellness aging care. She also wants to continue to expand her knowledge of exotic pets. She can sometimes be spotted working at vaccine clinics with the Anti-Cruelty Society here in Chicago. Outside of work, Dr. Coulombe spends her time with her teenage son as well as her border collie mix, Nymphadora. She also loves attending music festivals, camping out in the wilderness, and exploring local restaurants. 

Dr. Nicole Hoogerhyde

Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Hoogerhyde graduated from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine and joined Duke Animal Hospital in the summer of 2022. She is originally from New Jersey and received her Bachelor's of Science Degree in Animal Science from Rutgers University. During veterinary school, she was able to spend a lot of time in Chicago completing several externships in the area, and decided to relocate to the city after graduation. Dr. Hoogerhyde's special interests include internal medicine and dentistry. She is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Outside of work, Dr. Hoogerhyde enjoys thrifting, traveling, and spending time with her adorable dog Cato.

Dr. Caraline Nack

Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Nack joined the team in Summer 2022, and is a graduate of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. Having always had a love for animals and science, Dr. Nack found veterinary medicine to be the perfect combination of the two, and during her schooling traveled to Thailand on a two-week veterinary externship with the Thailand College Veterinary Service where she volunteered a week each at Elephant Nature Park and the Dog Rescue Clinic outside of Chiang Mai. Working in this industry has been a joy for Dr. Nack as she has built meaningful bonds with pets and their families, and fostered a community within the veterinary community among colleagues and support staff. At U of I, Dr. Nack was involved with the Companion Animal Veterinary Association and Public Health Association, and externed at the Chicago Anti-Cruelty Society and PAWS Chicago as a part of their spay/neuter programs. She also completed multiple externships at Eye Care for Animals in St. Charles, IL. Dr. Nack is currently a member of the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association, Chicago Veterinary Medical Association, and American Veterinary Medical Association. When not working, Dr. Nack is settling into the city by exploring new restaurants, attending varied Chicago sports games/matches, and binging the newest shows on Netflix. She also is the proud foster mom of a young Pitbull named Cam!

Dr. Caitlin Strowzewski

Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Caitlin Strozewski hails from Mount Prospect, IL, where her journey into veterinary medicine began. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience from Tulane University in 2018, where she was actively involved as a research assistant in the Tulane Learning and Brain Development Lab. During her undergraduate years, Caitlin dedicated her time to animal welfare, volunteering at Animal Rescue New Orleans and the Louisiana SPCA.

Continuing her academic pursuits, Caitlin achieved her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Illinois in 2024. Throughout veterinary school, she immersed herself in various clubs such as the Feline Club, Emergency and Critical Care, and Internal Medicine. Caitlin gained valuable experience in small animal emergency care and briefly volunteered at the Wildlife Medical Clinic, further broadening her expertise.

Caitlin's passion for veterinary medicine stems from her lifelong love of science, biology, and animals. Her particular affinity for feline medicine and neurology drives her professional interests, with aspirations to specialize in soft tissue surgery.

Outside of her veterinary practice, Caitlin finds balance through yoga, crafting and embroidery, and indulging in anything Halloween-related, such as watching horror movies. At home, she shares her life with Bella, a pitbull mix, and her three beloved cats: Salem, Goblin, and Frankie.

Britt , (she/her)

Project Coordinator, Techician Assistant and Client Service Representative

Britt first came to Duke Animal Hospital in 2015 as a client before joining the team in 2017 as a client service representative. She now fills the role as as project coordinator, while helping provide support for the medical team as a technician assistant. Currently, she is working towards becoming a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager. She especially enjoys client education, as she knows how important it is to feel confident in your pets' care. She finds any excuse to talk about her three spoiled ferrets - Ragnar, Chachamaru, and Masubi - and show off her attention-seeking cats Mr. Bumi and Vonnugget. She also has a rescued Cattle Dog mix named Ainslie who wrestled with his tiny sister, a stray Yorkie that Britt took in who has taken the name Darla.  Aside from her obsession with her pets, her other passions include writing, reading tarot, and playing the Sims 4 obsessively.

Cindy , (she/her)

Medical Support Staff and Facilities Manager & Veterinary Assistant

Corinne , (she/her)

Medical Support Staff and Facilities Manager & Veterinary Assistant

Corinne came to Duke Animal Hospital during the summer of 2015 to complete her practicum in the Veterinary Technician program at Fox College. It was a great fit and she started full time after graduation! Corinne's pets include her bulldog mix Torple and her three cats Van Gogh (pictured), Bellatrix, and one-eyed kitty named Cyborg.  With a background in the music industry, Corinne spends her free time going to see local bands perform along with reading, riding her bike, and camping/hiking.  Her eclectic likes include dinosaurs and terror birds, pathology, parasitology, math, puzzles, fractious cats, playing Dungeons & Dragons, and eating jalapeno chips!

Kristy

Human Resources Manager and Senior Receptionist

Kristy joined the Duke Animal Hospital Team as a receptionist shortly after the hospital opened, and has since moved into the role of Human Resource Manager. She comes from a background of animal lovers, as her family currently has 9 dogs ranging of all breeds and sizes! At home, Kristy has two rescued dogs that can be frequently seen greeting clients at reception - Gomez and Louie. Kristy loves to go out dancing and does so as often as possible.  She also has a special interest in pet-sitting, photography, and cooking. Kristy is pictured with her late dog, Diva.

Maggie , (she/her)

Front Desk Manager & Client Service Representative

Natalie , (she/her)

Administrative Manager, Bookkeeper and Receptionist

Natalie joined the Duke Animal Hospital team in 2015 as a receptionist and has also taken on the role of administrative manager and bookkeeper. Hailing from England, she moved to Michigan in 2006 and graduated from Western Michigan University with an undergraduate degree in Business. Having always had a huge soft spot for animals, Natalie enjoys the diverse array of animals we see at Duke Animal Hospital, thriving in her ability to meet and learn more about them and their care. Natalie's dog Milo (pictured) is never far from her and always keeps her company as she works. Natalie also has three cats (Esme, Negan, and Kevin), three bunnies (Belle, Hagrid, and Piglet), Potato the hedgehog, and a crested gecko named Jerry. She hopes to one day open an animal sanctuary to take in at-risk and abandoned pets and give them a peaceful place to live. Aside from her passion for pet care and rescue, Natalie enjoys going to concerts, painting in her spare time, and traveling.

Sally , (she/her)

Client Liaison & Receptionist

Sally is a lifelong animal lover and has lived with a variety of pets over the years.  Originally from the east coast, she and her husband Niles are happy to call Chicago home.  She serves as the client liaison at the clinic, working directly with pet parents as needed to provide information about services and procedures and ensure satisfactory care. Sally has a love of long walks, eating and cooking amazing vegetarian fare, and reading. Sally and Niles currently have two cats, Celeste (pictured) and Raven.

Abby , (she/her)

Ward Assistant

Abby joined the team as a Ward Assistant in July 2023 and is originally from St. Louis, Missouri. She is eager to hone her animal caretaking skills while assisting the medical team and working hands-on with our patients.

At home, Abby shares her life with two cats, Philly and Sookie, both of whom were found in alleys. Outside of work, Abby enjoys reading, eating Japanese food, and watching movies.

Alexis , (she/her)

Technician Assistant

Alexis joined Duke Animal Hospital as a Technician Assistant in early 2022. At home, she shares her life with Xena, her dog, and Babybird, her blue parakeet. When she’s not at work, Alexis enjoys focusing on self-care, taking nature walks, and motorbiking. Along with her passion for pet wellness, she also enjoys teaching others about plant-based health and wellness practices.

Alicia , (she/her)

Client Service Representative

Alicia has been a vital part of Duke Animal Hospital since 2015, transitioning to a full-time Client Service Representative in May 2016. With 18 years of experience in the veterinary field as a receptionist and assistant, Alicia brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for animal care. Having known Dr. Duke for years, she was drawn to the clinic’s strong team spirit and welcoming, family-like atmosphere.

At home, Alicia’s two daughters adore their sassy chihuahua rescue, Nena. Outside of work, Alicia is often found rescuing strays or experimenting in the kitchen, creating delicious desserts to share with her family, friends, and coworkers.

Alyssa , (she/her)

Technician Assistant

Alyssa joined our team in 2020, bringing her years of experience as a groomer and her dedication to animal care through volunteering at humane societies. As a Technician Assistant, she works closely with our veterinary technicians and veterinarians to provide top-notch care for our patients. Alyssa has a particular passion for surgery and is on track to become a certified veterinary technician. At home, she enjoys life with her two dogs—a kleekai and a chihuahua. When she’s not at the clinic, you can find her immersed in a great fantasy novel.

Christina , (she/her)

Client Service Representative, Certified Pet Loss Bereavement Specialist

Christina joined Duke Animal Hospital in Fall 2020 as a Client Service Representative, bringing years of experience helping pets through her volunteer work and pet-sitting. Originally from a small town in northern Illinois, she is currently pursuing a certification in pet bereavement counseling. Christina has a deep compassion for both pets and their owners during times of loss and completed the certification process to become a pet loss bereavement specialist. She wants clients to know they should never hesitate to reach out to her for support in coping with pet grief, either by calling the clinic or emailing her directly at cmatticksdah@gmail.com.

A self-proclaimed cat lady, Christina has a passion for wildlife rehabilitation and has successfully reintroduced many critters back into their natural environments. At home, she shares her life with six cats—Daisy, Charlie, Henry, Athena, Ringo, and Rumi—two guinea pigs, Scout and Ari, and a little mouse named Hamish, who was rescued from aggressive cage-mates.

In her spare time, Christina enjoys crafting, listening to Taylor Swift, and fostering kittens.

Cynthia, CVT , (she/her)

Certified Veterinary Technician

Cynthia joined the team at Duke Animal Hospital in August 2019 after completing an internship rotation here earlier that year. She attended Joliet Junior College for her Veterinary Technology program and became a Certified Veterinary Technician after passing the Veterinary Technician National Exam in 2021.

Cynthia discovered her passion for the field in helping sick patients recover and return to health. Outside of work, she enjoys rewatching Harry Potter, taking walks in the fresh air, and indulging in zombie flicks.

Denise, CVT , (she/her)

Certified Veterinary Technician,

Denise has been working as a Certified Veterinary Technician since 2009 and joined Duke Animal Hospital in the spring of 2016. She couldn’t be happier in her vocation and loves working together as a team to treat patients and build trust with our clients.

Her pet family includes her pit bull, Turbo (pictured), a leopard gecko named Fred, and a ball python named Waffles. In her free time, Denise enjoys cooking, baking, and attending concerts.

Emerald, CVT , (she/her)

Certified Veterinary Technician

Emerald joined our team as a Certified Veterinary Technician in the summer of 2021. A graduate of the Vet Tech Institute of Fox Valley College, she has been in the veterinary field for six years, including her work with a humane society shortly after graduation. Emerald brings her silly sense of humor to the team, lightening the mood and raising everyone’s spirits, even on the toughest days.

Emmit , (they/them)

Ward Assistant

Emmitt started as a Ward Assistant in October 2024 and is from the suburbs of Chicago. They bring experience from working at a doggy daycare and volunteering at Second City Canine Rescue. Emmitt is passionate about becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician and is focused on honing their medical skills.

At home, Emmitt has a very social Italian Greyhound named Fig, who loves treats. Emmitt enjoys going on walks, hiking, and cuddling with their dog.

Felicia , (she/her)

Client Service Representative

Felicia has over 10 years of experience in the veterinary field and joined our team in the Spring of 2023 as a Client Service Representative. She loves greeting clients as they walk in and chatting with them about their pets, and she never hesitates to step around from the front desk to assist clients in the lobby or help them to their cars. Felicia has known Dr. Duke for years and was drawn to our clinic’s welcoming, team-oriented atmosphere.

At home, she lives with her mother's dog and enjoys spending her free time with family, cooking, and pet-sitting.

Gabby , (she/her)

Technician Assistant

Gabby, a Chicago native, has been passionate about animal care from a young age and dreams of one day working with wildlife and living in the countryside surrounded by animals. As a Technician Assistant, she supports our veterinary technicians and veterinarians, helping to provide exceptional care for every patient. Outside the clinic, Gabby enjoys photography, cooking, and exploring the outdoors through camping and hiking. At home, she dotes on Schmidt, her beloved domestic medium-haired cat.

Jailenne , (she/her)

Ward Assistant

Jailenne joined the team as a Ward Assistant in October 2024. She volunteers with PAWS and the Anti-Cruelty Society and is currently enrolled in the Penn Foster Veterinary Technician program, aiming to graduate in 2026. Jailenne enjoys socializing with the variety of pets and meeting so many pet owners.

At home, she has a Shih Tzu named Calliope, who has a unique collection of TY plushies. Jailenne’s hobbies include weightlifting, adult coloring books, and solving word searches.

Jackie , (she/her)

Technician Assistant

Jackie started as a Technician Assistant in January 2023. She enjoys working with all types of animals and collaborating closely with the team. Jackie has a pug named Peppa Pug, who is always the best dressed, and two axolotls she adopted in 2024. She loves spending time with her family, friends, and her dog, as well as crafting. Jackie is also one of our resident doodlers, brightening the clinic with fun drawings on the whiteboards.

Janice , (she/hers)

Ward Assistant

Janice joined our team as a Ward Assistant in June 2024. A Chicago native, she volunteered with the Anti-Cruelty Society throughout high school and later shadowed veterinarians while also volunteering at horse, cat, and bird sanctuaries during college. Janice loves seeing all the pets and observing surgeries and dental procedures to deepen her knowledge. At home, she has a calico cat named Dopey, who was gifted to her at 17. Despite being labeled "mean" at the shelter, Dopey’s charm shines through her signature "mean mug." In her free time, Janice enjoys drawing, painting, and creating ceramics and pottery.

Jasleen , (she/her)

Ward Assistant

Jasleen joined the team as a Ward Assistant in June 2024 and is from Chicago. Growing up in a home with a veterinary professional, she has always been surrounded by animals and has volunteered with them for years. Jasleen is currently working part-time while attending high school and plans to graduate in 2026. She aspires to become a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT).

At home, she has a Shih Tzu named Sparky, who enjoys sleeping, watching TV, and dancing for treats. Outside of work, Jasleen is passionate about creating wall portraits and dog beds for shelters, painting and drawing, and participating in her community art club. She’s also involved in water polo and the fishing club.

Kai , (he/him)

Ward Assistant

Kai joined our team as a Ward Assistant in May 2024. A Chinatown native, he has volunteered with the Anti-Cruelty Society and holds a Fear-Free Certification. Kai aspires to become a veterinarian and pursue a specialty practice in the future. He appreciates the friendly community at the hospital and the consistent, organized workflow. Outside of work, Kai enjoys playing badminton, reading, and shuffle dancing.

Kelsey , (she/her)

Technician Asssitant

Kelsey joined our team in the Fall of 2023 as a Technician Assistant, and has since moved into the role of a Technician Assistant. She graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Animal Sciences. While at school, Kelsey interned at the Champaign County Humane Society in the medical lab and plans to continue her education in the veterinary field.

At home, she shares her life with three German Shorthaired Pointers—Charlie, Jack, and Rosie—whom her family has been caring for since their birth in 2009. At work, Kelsey enjoys furthering her education by observing procedures and gaining first-hand experience in the veterinary hospital setting. Outside of work, she enjoys watching movies, reading books, and spending quality time with her family and pets.

Lisa, CVT , (she/her)

Certified Veterinary Technician

With over 10 years of experience as a Certified Veterinary Technician, Lisa joined our team in 2022 after leaving her work in animal research. Having spent several years in a lab, she is still often drawn to running in-house lab work.

In her free time, Lisa enjoys reading, playing video games, and spending quality time with her son.

Lucy , (she/her)

Ward Assistant

Lucy joined the team as a Ward Assistant in June 2024 and is originally from Ann Arbor. She has spent years pet sitting, volunteering at the Anti-Cruelty Society, and dog-walking in her hometown. Lucy is passionate about continuing to learn new things and gain experience in animal care.

She enjoys working alongside her co-workers and meeting all the pets we care for. At home, Lucy has a talkative cat named June who loves napping in the sun. Outside of work, Lucy enjoys reading, creating art, and watching movies.

Maria , (she/her)

Technician Asssitant

Maria began her journey at Duke Animal Hospital as a Ward Assistant in the winter of 2016, and her growing skillset led to on-the-job training to become a Technician Assistant. A proud Chicago native, Maria divides her time between the clinic, working at a doggy daycare, and hosting events as a venue host. She is a devoted dog and reptile enthusiast who shares her home with two dogs, Chicharron and Canelo, an orange cat named Sazon, and Lt. Dan—a legless bearded dragon with internet fame rescued by Dr. Duke.

Maria loves learning new skills every day and providing exceptional care to our patients. Outside the clinic, she enjoys dog-walking, volunteering at Chicago Canine Rescue, and immersing herself in DC Comics. She’s also the go-to dogsitter for many of the staff’s pets, who adore her welcoming, pet-friendly home.

Meryn , (she/her)

Client Service Representative

Meryn joined the team as a Client Service Representative in March 2024 and is originally from Boston. Raised in a home that bred Jack Russell Terriers, she has always been surrounded by animals. Though she holds a BFA in Theatrical Design and an MBA in Arts Administration, Meryn transitioned into veterinary care after receiving exceptional care from our doctors (she was a client first!).

She has completed a course in basic wildlife rehabilitation with the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council and hopes to build a welcoming pet community where clients feel her compassion and attention to detail from registration to that final visit. Meryn loves working with fellow pet lovers and enjoys snuggling and spoiling pets whenever she gets the chance.

At home, she shares her life with Huck, a Lab mix who’s great at giving smooches; Bruno, the happiest basset hound who doesn’t let bilateral elbow dysplasia slow him down; and Goose, a beagle mix who competed in The National Association of Canine Scent Work and earned an NW1 title. She also loves tending to her backyard farm, curating her puzzle library, and celebrating her Irish heritage.

Monica, CVT , (she/her)

Certified Veterinary Technician

Monica has been a Certified Veterinary Technician since 2014 and joined our clinic when she moved back to the area in 2022. She completed her veterinary technician program at Carrington College.

At home, Monica shares her life with two tortoiseshell cats—Sophie, a rescue from the ASPCA, and Kiara, a former barn cat. Monica thrives in procedures, assisting with dental work, anesthesia monitoring, and ensuring smooth recoveries for patients as they wake up.

Outside of work, Monica loves to bake, spend time in nature, and enjoys painting.

Nessa , (she/her)

Client Service Representative

Nessa joined the team as a Client Service Representative (CSR) in January 2024 and is a Chicago native. She has a wealth of experience in pet care, having worked as a groomer at a pet store, a pet care lead, and a shift supervisor at various pet stores. Currently enrolled in the Penn Foster Veterinary Technician program, Nessa is eager to continue her veterinary journey.

Nessa has a passion for birds, particularly parrots, and was thrilled to finally meet her favorite, the Eclectus, while working here. She enjoys working alongside her teammates and is also a proud pet parent to Zuko the budgie (who speaks and throws tantrums for treats), Poe and Rico (budgies who’ve mastered the stink eye for treats), and Freyja and Floki (cockatiels who are self-proclaimed drama queens). She also has a dog named Cricket, who bears a striking resemblance to Dobby the House-Elf from Harry Potter.

At home, Nessa tends to over 25 plants, enjoys watching crime documentaries, and loves to relax by knitting and crocheting.

Taylor , (she/her)

Technician Assistant

Taylor, a Technician Assistant from Chicago's northwest side, began her journey at Duke Animal Hospital as an assistant. She holds a bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of Illinois at Chicago and is currently enrolled in the Penn Foster program to become a certified veterinary technician. Taylor thrives in hands-on patient care, with particular interests in drawing blood for diagnostics and examining slides under the microscope.

At home, Taylor shares her life with her cat, Kunkins (pictured), who reluctantly tolerates Goop, an eyeless young cat whose pouncing skills remain sharp. She also frequently visits her childhood pitbulls, Baloo and Luna, who keep her on her toes. Beyond her love for animals, Taylor enjoys K-Pop, creating detailed pet portraits, and fostering a sense of community by helping her neighbors.

Trinidad , (she/her)

Client Service Representative

Trinidad joined our front desk team in the Summer of 2018 and has quickly become an invaluable member, learning from her fellow staff members. With a background in pet retail, she easily fell in love with animals of all shapes and sizes and came to Duke Animal Hospital to work alongside like-minded individuals who share her passion for caring for and learning about our companions.

A huge Cubs fan, Trinidad’s love for the Bulls tops even that! At home, she shares her life with Mia, a 12-year-old poodle who has the demeanor of a puppy, and Tino (pictured), a 3-year-old blue-nosed pitbull who acts more like a stubborn teenager. When not getting her fill of cuddles from her pets, Trinidad enjoys hiking, watching scary movies, indulging in Italian food, and has a deep passion for butter pecan ice cream.

Sarah , (she/her)

Client Service Representative

Sarah joined Duke Animal Hospital in January 2024 as a Receptionist. After moving around and spending time in the corporate world, Sarah and her family planted roots in Chicago in 2007 after arriving from London, England. She has always had a love for animals, especially her childhood dog, Miss Clancy, who lived to 19 years old.

Sarah finds great satisfaction in interacting with clients, patients, and coworkers. Although she doesn't have a pet of her own, she enjoys spending time with her sister’s dog, Teddy, who is also a patient at Duke Animal Hospital. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys family time, watching her boys play sports, improving her pickleball skills, and volunteering at Nourishing Hope Food Pantry.

Sophia , (she/her)

Ward Assistant

Sophia started as a Ward Assistant in June 2024 and is a local to the area. Prior to joining us, she worked at River Forest Animal Hospital. Sophia is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology and Global Studies, with plans to graduate in 2027. She has attended training for Fear Free certification with cats and enjoys how her team keeps the work fun while managing even the most difficult cases.

At home, Sophia has a 10-year-old pug named Gus, whom she rescued from a shelter, and a pug/Chihuahua mix that resembles Moodeng the hippo. Sophia enjoys reading, shopping, and spending time with friends.

Vanessa , (she/her)

Technician Assistant

Vanessa joined Duke Animal Hospital in 2022 as a Ward Assistant, and worked on training up to become a Technician Assistant. She holds an undergraduate degree in ecology and environmental science and is currently enrolled in the veterinary technician program through Penn Foster. Vanessa plans to continue her career path toward becoming a veterinarian.

As a hands-on learner, she has found mentorship among the staff to help her further develop her skills. Outside of work, Vanessa enjoys anime and comic books, and she is currently fostering two spunky cats at home.

Zach , (he/him)

Technician Assistant

Zach joined our team as a Technician Assistant in 2023, bringing experience from daycare and boarding facilities and a lifelong passion for animals. Since starting in the veterinary field in 2019, he has focused on providing compassionate, hands-on care for pets and their families.

At home, Zach shares his life with three dogs—Diamond, Hazel, and Libby—a bird who is very particular about the people it likes, and an adorable turtle named Boba Tea. When he’s not at the clinic, he enjoys cooking, spending time with friends, and cultivating his many plants.

Heidi

Resident Turtle and Patient Greeter

Meet Heidi – or maybe you already have! Heidi, the Eastern Box Turtle, was rescued by Dr. Duke in 1995. Before coming under Dr. Duke's care, she had been living in a Tupperware container in a basement, refusing food and appearing grey in color. Now, Heidi follows a strict worm-and-tomato diet and has developed the vibrant orange coloring we all know and love.

Heidi not only greets clients and patients but also makes educational trips with Dr. Duke to classrooms and other events. A true diva now, Heidi enjoys daily spa treatments and insists on having a variety of faux plant décor in her space. You may even notice that she swiped a name badge from a former technician with the same name—what are the odds?

And when she’s approached in her cage, Heidi dances around excitedly, moving her legs in delight!