Passion. Purpose. Calling.
Doctors
Kate Raczak
Why did I become a veterinarian? Well, I have always had a profound interest in and a special connection with animals. I’ve always also found myself striving to continue to challenge myself and push myself beyond my limitations, both physically and intellectually. Furthermore, I enjoy giving back to my community. Veterinary medicine is challenging and evolving constantly, it allows me to work with animals every day, and it allows me to give back to my community. This is what has led to a lifelong goal to pursue veterinary medicine and continue expanding my knowledge and understanding of anatomy, physiology, behavior, and medicine. I also have a special interest in acupuncture as an alternative and adjunctive treatment as well as exotic animal medicine (particularly small mammals). My favorite part of my day is interacting with my patients, while my favorite part of my career is when I can send home a healthy patient following treatment. Successful treatment means I get to see my patient go home feeling better. While veterinary medicine is a priority in my life, I also enjoy the outdoors, yoga, fitness, and spending time with friends and family.
Daniella De La Cal
What led you to become a Veterinarian? I originally wanted to be a pediatrician, but then decided that I didn’t like the sight of human blood. I have always loved animals and medicine!
What do you love most about your job? What I love most about my job is of course when I get to save an animal’s life! I also appreciate how important it is to relieve suffering.
What is your favorite part of your work day/what can you not wait to do when you are at work? Finding the answers to complicated cases.
Do you have any particular interests in veterinary medicine? I am very interested in oncology as well as emergency/critical care.
Do you have a code you live by (either career wise/or out of work)? Values/beliefs? “It doesn’t cost a penny to be kind”. I treat everyone the way I would want to be treated. And I treat my patients the way I’d want my own pets to be treated.
Are you passionate about anything outside of work? Hobbies/studies? My husband and I love to see live music, and I love working out and going out into nature. We love UCLA sports, Angels Baseball, and LA Kings Hockey. We have a little boy who is almost a year old, two cats, and one dog!
“You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”
-Jane Goodall
Administrators
“When I look into the eyes of an animal, I do not see an animal. I see a living being. I see a friend. I feel a soul.”
-Anthony Douglas Williams
Veterinary Technicians and Assistants
“One small cat changes coming home to an empty house to coming home.”
-Pam Brown
Client Care
“Sometimes, your pet picks you.”
–Julie Wenzel
Staff Pets
