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.

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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. Kovacs

Dr. Kovacs | Veterinarian

Dr. Kovacs always had a desire to work with animals and also had an interest in medicine since she was young. She started her journey towards veterinary medicine earning a BS in Biology and later a BS in Biomedical Science at the University of South Florida. During her undergraduate studies, she worked at Busch Gardens in the conservation and education department, which gave her experience working with many different species of animals. Dr. Kovacs then earned her DVM degree from the University of Illinois in 2014. Since graduation she has worked as a small animal general practitioner and also delights in seeing exotic animals and pocket pets.

Dr. Kovacs enjoys helping clients strengthen their bonds with their pets, and working with clients to reach decisions regarding the best care for their pets. Dr. Kovacs is currently a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association (ISVMA).

In her spare time, Dr. Kovacs enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling within the states and abroad, and also engaging in outdoor activities.

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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. 
 
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.
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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.

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Michele | Certified Veterinary Technician

Ever since she was a child, Michele knew she wanted to help animals. She began her career in veterinary medicine as a member of the kennel staff and has continued to expand her skills in the field ever since. Michele is proud to have accomplished her goal of working in the animal field and helping and educating pet owners. Her background includes a Bachelor of Animal Science from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale and an associate vet tech certification from Parkland College. Michele enjoys being able to take care of animals through all the stages of their lives and play a role in keeping them happy and healthy.

She has 2 pets of her own, a Chihuahua named Ren and a domestic shorthair cat named Mouse. In her spare time, Michele enjoys bike riding, hiking, and traveling. 

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Lily | Veterinary Assistant

My name is Lily and I am a college Freshman pursuing a major in Biology and a degree in Veterinary Medicine. I have been practicing technician work for 4 years now and volunteering at Barbs Precious Rescue. My love for animals started at a very young age and I have 3 cats of my own. I started working at Buffalo Grove Animal Hospital back in June and really enjoyed it!

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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!
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Akos | Customer Service Representative

My name is Akos, and I am 22 years old. I grew up in Spain, where my love for animals first began. From a young age, I was always drawn to caring for pets and learning everything I could about their health and well-being. That passion has only continued to grow over the years. I currently share my life with my 5-year-old dog, Koda, and multiple reptiles. Caring for them has given me hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the unique needs of different species. I truly enjoy learning more about animal health every day and providing them with the best care possible.
 
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.
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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.