Meet Your Veterinarians & Support Staff
Each member of our team has a common goal: deliver the best veterinary experience possible to you and your pet. We go the extra mile to accommodate your pet's every need - and with our level of flexibility, it's no problem at all! Learn more about our exceptional team and don't forget to set up an appointment soon to meet us all in person.
Dr. Schaele | Practice Owner, Veterinarian
Dr. Schaele earned his DVM from the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine in 2004. After graduation, he began his veterinary career as a large animal veterinarian. However, he soon realized that he wanted to be a practice owner. It has been an 11-year journey to get the experience he wanted in order to take the leap into a leadership role. In his current role, Dr. Schaele loves interacting with clients and being able to be a part of their lives. It’s wonderful to see pets grow and age with their families. He also finds it gratifying to develop relationships with multiple generations of families! Dr. Schaele is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Chicago Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), Wisconsin Veterinary Referral Association (WVRA), and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).
Dr. Schaele loves spending quality time with his teenage kids, creating lifelong memories through hiking, biking, and skiing adventures in Colorado. Dr. Schaele also finds serenity in watching sunsets on Florida beaches. Cooking and exploring diverse culinary cultures bring Dr. Schaele immense joy. Dr. Schaele made a heartwarming decision to adopt a dog named Willie back in December of 2024. Willie is remarkably affectionate pup who thrives on spending quality time with his owner. Dr. Schaele is also blessed to have a cat named Flynn.
Dr. Lee | Veterinarian
Hello, My name is David Lee , I attended the University of Georgia in 2018 with an interest in equine sports medicine. Since graduation, I have worked in dozens of clinics ranging from the city to the suburbs. I have a special
interest in orthopedics and diagnostic imaging.
interest in orthopedics and diagnostic imaging.
I have a cat named J.E.D. at home, named after the surgery team that neutered him. I'm excited about my life's journey. I enjoy exploring new worlds through video games and reading, and I cherish moments spent with loved ones. My favorite snack is Pringles, and I'm working towards my dream of sailing around the world.
Ewelina | Practice Manager
Ewelina has been dedicated to the veterinary industry since 2015. Her passion for veterinary medicine stems from shelter medicine. Following a decade of experience in General Practice, Ewelina expanded her expertise by working in the Emergency for Animals, a decision that has been profoundly life-changing. The other significant aspect that fuels her love for veterinary medicine is pit bulls. These animals hold a special place in her heart, consistently brightening her day with their distinctive tail wags, endearing facial features, and unwaveringly loving personalities. This affinity inspired her to share her life with her two pitties, Ella and Pluto. Additionally, Ewelina is a devoted mother to two teenagers at home. Beyond her professional commitments in Emergency, Ewelina enjoys exploring Colorado's hiking trails, capturing breathtaking sunsets. At the core of Ewelina's passion for veterinary medicine lies her commitment to ensuring that all pets receive a voice in their medical care, complemented by the highest standards of compassion and care possible.
Lily | Veterinary Assistant
Hello, my name is Lily and I have been with BGAH for over a year and have been practicing technician work for 4 years. I am currently attending Harper College and am on the pre-veterinary track. I have always had a passion for Veterinary Medicine since I was very young and have 3 cats of my own.
Outside of work my love for animals continues as I do Volunteer work with Barbs Precious Rescue, but I also have a passion for dance and theater. I have been a semi-pro dancer for 3 years and love my work, and just recently had the chance to star in a musical this past summer!
Kristin | Veterinary Assistant
Hello, My name is Kristin, and I am a Veterinary Assistant here at Buffalo Grove Animal Hospital. I have been working in the veterinary field since 2015, and I truly love what I do. I share my home with three birds: two 11-year-old cockatiels and one pigeon who is currently awaiting a new companion after recently losing his mate to cancer. Birds hold a special place in my heart, and I spend much of my free time caring for and bonding with them.
Outside of work, I enjoy staying active through biking, running, hiking, kayaking, traveling, and training Muay Thai at my local MMA gym. I am grateful to be part of the Buffalo Grove Animal Hospital family and look forward to meeting you and your furry friends!
Lauren | Veterinary Assistant
My name is Lauren and I have been dedicated to the veterinary field for more than 40 years. I began my career as a kennel attendant and worked my way up to becoming a veterinary technician, gaining invaluable experience and knowledge every step of the way.
Caring for animals has always been my passion, and I have devoted my life to helping them through every stage of their journey. Whether I’m assisting during routine wellness visits, providing critical care in times of illness of injury, or helping families navigate the difficult end-of-life transition for their beloved companions, I consider it an honor to be there for both my patients to and their people.
Outside of the hospital, my love for animals continues. I have a special place in my heart for rescue animals, especially pit bulls, and I currently share my home with three pit bull mixed, one cat and two “grandcats.” My family knows that there is always room in my heart for another furry friend in need.
When I’m not caring for animals, I enjoy spending time in my garden, baking, trying out new recipes in the kitchen and hitting the open road with my husband on our Harley.
Wynn | Veterinary Assistant
Hello! My name is Wynn, and I have always had a strong love for animals, which has inspired me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. I am currently attending the University of Illinois Chicago, where I study Biological Sciences on a pre-veterinary track.
In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis, photography, hiking, and spending time with friends and family. I am very excited to continue growing my experience in veterinary medicine and learning as much as possible along the way.
Krista | Veterinary Assistant
I’ve been working with animals for the past 15 years, and caring for them has always been a true passion of mine. My heart has a special place for exotic animals, but I’ll never turn down a good cuddle from a dog or cat!
At home, I have a cat, a hamster, and a snake, so my life is definitely never boring. In addition to working with animals, I’m also a full-time Registered Nurse. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending quality time with my son and making the most of our time together.
Akos | Customer Service Representative
Hi, my name is Akos I’m receptionist at Buffalo Grove Animal Hospital I have a strong passion for animals, and I enjoy being one of the first friendly faces clients see when they visit. I try to make every interaction welcoming and positive.
My experience working with people and animals has helped me develop strong communication, organization, and customer service skills. I’m always happy to assist clients, help keep things running smoothly, and support our veterinary team however I can.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, traveling, going to the gym, and caring for my own dog and reptiles. I’m passionate about animals and feel fortunate to work in an environment where I can combine that passion.
Because animals have always been one of my biggest passions, I am pursuing my education to become a veterinary technician. My goal is to build a long-term career in veterinary medicine. I am dedicated to treating every patient with compassion, patience, and the same level of care I give to my own pets. In my free time, I enjoy playing soccer and going to the gym, which help me stay active and energized. I am proud to be part of a veterinary team where I can continue growing, learning, and making a difference in the lives of pets and their families every day.
Max | Kennel Assistant
My name is Max, and I am a 16-year-old junior at Buffalo Grove High School. My favorite subject is Veterinary Science, as I have a strong interest in animals and their care. I enjoy staying active, especially by playing badminton, which I play often during the summer. In my free time, I love trying different pasta dishes—chicken parmesan and carbonara are my favorites. I also enjoy going for walks and spending quality time with friends.