Meet Our Team!

Sara Marchlensky

Veterinary Office Assistant

My name is Sara I have been working in veterinary medicine for 4 years. When I am not working I enjoy snowboarding in the winter time and hiking in the summer. My typical day off you can find me curled up watching something true crime hanging out with my cat Benny and my boyfriend Mason.

Jenna Reinisch

Registered Veterinary Technologist

Jenna has always been passionate about helping animals and wanted to find a career that reflected this passion. She became an RVT in 2023 after graduating from the Animal Health Technology program at Olds College. She strives to make veterinary visits as stress-free as possible for both patients and their families. In her free time, she enjoys exploring the mountains and playing board games.

Andrea Ploeger

Veterinary Office Assistant

Andrea has a passion for all animals, large and small, and has been in the veterinary industry for over 5 years, from managing to being a veterinary assistant. Her hobbies include photography and teaching her great niece to be confident in riding her miniature pony named “Cash”. She also has three cats: Baby Cat (Daddy’s Girl), Buddy (aka Devil Child), and Dr. Pepper (Scaredy Cat).

Ali Silver

Clinic Manager

Ali has been in the industry for about eight years. She adores senior animals – they have a special place in her heart. When she’s not working, she enjoys golfing and, of course, finding fun new places to eat!

Nina Hobart

Registered Veterinarian Technologist

Quick Facts:

Since starting my career as a veterinary assistant in 2006, I have dedicated myself to the well-being of animals, working predominantly with dogs and cats, but also caring for a variety of other species. My personal life reflects my professional passion, with a home filled with 1 dog, 2 cats, and a bearded dragon. Moving to Calgary in 2013, I ventured into emergency and then primary/urgent care veterinary medicine.

A significant milestone was achieved in December 2023, when I graduated from Thompson Rivers University, followed by obtaining my Registered Veterinary Technologist (RVT) certification in March 2024. This accomplishment marks a dream realized and opens a new chapter in my veterinary career.

Driving Passion:

What excites me about my work is the opportunity to make veterinary visits a positive experience for pets and their owners alike. I specialize in calming nervous or aggressive animals, creating a welcoming environment for them. My approach leads to happier clients and pets, enhancing the quality of life for animals at every stage and providing support to families during difficult times.

Personal Pursuits and Aspirations:

Beyond my professional life, I aim to become a dog trainer to further support animal well-being. My adventurous spirit is evident through hobbies such as off-roading, snowboarding, and engaging in adrenaline-fueled activities like skydiving. I dream of combining my love for adventure with my passion for veterinary medicine, aspiring to experiences like shark cage diving and visiting penguins in their natural habitat.

My journey from a high school placement to a certified RVT is a testament to my dedication to animal health and my continuous pursuit of personal and professional growth.

Erin Levine

Registered Veterinarian Technologist

Quick Facts:

I grew up in Montreal, QC. I went to school for Animal Health at Vanier College and graduated in 2016. I started working with lab animals in Montreal but then moved to Calgary in 2017 where I started working with small animals and exotics in clinic. I spent the first 4 years of my career here at a 24/7 emergency hospital, then I was a full-time locum bouncing around to different clinics in the city for a few years before settling here at Royal Loop part-time.

When you engage with a client, what is your ultimate goal? What can they expect from you?

 I know that it can be hard for lots of clients to bring their fur babies in to be seen by a vet and even harder to know who to trust. My goal is to help increase clients’ comprehension of vet care and help them feel more at ease with us caring for their pets. They can expect me to always be open and honest and to take my time to educate where needed. I also always love a good story so they can expect me to be very interested in chatting when time permits it!

Funny, quick habit or tidbit about you:

In my spare time, I love to travel. I have friends all through North America so any chance I get I love to go see them; ideally with a road trip involved. I love to learn about new cultures, try all different kinds of food, and go to as many shows, art exhibits, music festivals, you name it, as possible.

Dr. Rachel-Flath

Associate Veterinarian

Quick Facts:

I graduated from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon in 2021. I then completed a small animal rotating internship here in Calgary at VCA Western Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Centre in July 2022. For the past 6 months I have been working in emergency medicine and a variety of general practices as a locum doctor. I am beyond excited to have found a place to call home with the amazing team at Royal Loop Vet. 

What part of your job makes you excited to wake up and go to work every day?

My favourite part of my job is meeting so many amazing animals and people every day. I am lucky enough to care for animals and in doing so, help people as well. The Royal Loop community is so welcoming, and I cannot wait to meet you and your furry loved ones.

Funny, quick habit or tidbit about you:

In my spare time, I enjoy travelling and getting outdoors. My favourite activities include skiing, hiking, mountain biking and wake surfing. I grew up in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and have quickly fallen in love with Calgary and its accessibility to endless adventures. 

Dr. Kaylan-Elock

Associate Veterinarian

Quick Facts:

I have wanted to be a veterinarian since I was 7 years old. I grew up riding and living on a small farm outside of Sherwood Park, which further fueled my passion. I graduated from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon in 2007 and have been working in general small animal practice since. Herbal medicine and natural nutrition have become a huge passion of mine; I have a graduate diploma in Veterinary Food Therapy and Veterinary Natural Nutrition. I love working with clients to find integrative solutions for their pets. 

What part of your job makes you excited to wake up and go to work every day?

I am so fortunate to be able to say I love my job! Every day is a new day and I am constantly learning new things. I love the interactions I have with patients and clients and the relationships that are built. Every day I get to come to work and be around a positive team that is compassionate and a ton of fun. I am so grateful for this profession and the amazing families I meet every day!

Funny, quick habit or tidbit about you:

I am kept busy with my two sons and husband however I also enjoy karate as my own hobby. I love to be outdoors and enjoy travelling to new places. I always have on a different pair of fun shoes at work and feel a day at work must include lots of laughing and fun. My pets at home include 2 cats and a small Staffordshire terrier, Myla, who has a cleft lip and palate. 

Tasha-Gosselin

Registered Veterinary Technologist

Quick Facts:

I became an RVT in 2018 after I graduated from Olds College. I was born and raised in Calgary and love it! Ever since I was young I had an absolute love for animals. My goal is to ensure every animal is treated like family and with the utmost compassion and care. I am very passionate about animal dentistry and nutrition. My pets include my precious golden retriever mix named Keva who has been by my side for 8 years and a talkative orange tabby named Milo.

What part of your job makes you excited to wake up and go to work every day?

I love going to work and know I am making a difference; from educating pet parents to helping with surgery it all makes a big impact on the lives of the animals and their owners. It brings me joy to see a pet go home happy and healthy. I love talking to owners and figuring out things that work best to make every experience the best it can be for the pets and ensure no questions go unanswered. One of the best parts of my day is when I get to snuggle and comfort pets as they wake up from surgery. Being an RVT means I get to learn new things every day, meet people who are passionate about their pets, and, of course, meet new dog and cat friends!

Funny, quick habit or tidbit about you:

I love board games and have a forever-expanding collection. My husband and I enjoy having board game nights frequently with our friends or our many siblings. My current favourite game is Betrayal at House on the Hill — it is incredibly fun and unique each time you play it. Our board game nights always include Keva at our feet napping and Milo trying to play with the pieces or sleep in the boxes. 

Alisa-Siklodi

Veterinary Office Assistant

Quick Facts:

Since childhood, I have been an animal lover and knew that is what I wanted to do as a career. I was lucky enough to be accepted at Olds College for their Veterinary Assistant Certificate while still in high school. Since then I’ve been working in the industry, and love to learn all I can since there is never a shortage of knowledge! Along the way, I’ve picked up a clowder of 6 cats and a corgi of my own. 

What part of your job makes you excited to wake up and go to work every day?

My favourite part of this job is building a relationship with clients and their pets. The best part of general practice is seeing those familiar faces in, getting to know each one’s quirks and charms. I am lucky to work in an industry where I can treat other people’s pets as I would my own!

Funny, quick habit or tidbit about you:

I am a huge nerd and love all things geeky. Both my desks at work and home are always decorated with knickknacks and collectables that I’ve obtained over the years. Two of my cats and my dog are named after a character that I love from a show or video game. When I’m not at work, I’m at home playing video games and working on writing my own novel.

Lindsay Astle

Registered Veterinary Technologist

Quick Facts:

My ultimate goal when engaging with clients is to ensure clear communication. I aim for clients to leave with a complete understanding of all the information presented. They can expect thorough explanations and clarity from my interactions.

What part of your job makes you excited to wake up and go to work every day?

My job excitement comes from helping animals heal and giving them care and attention. Seeing their progress and knowing I contribute to their well-being is deeply rewarding. This aspect of my work makes every day fulfilling and keeps me motivated.

Funny, quick habit or tidbit about you:

I’m an outdoor enthusiast who loves hiking, enjoys solving puzzles, and cherishes spending time with my furry pets.

Jenna Whetstone

Veterinary Office Assistant

Quick Facts:

I have been passionate about animals since I was very young and always knew I wanted to pursue a career in the Veterinary field. I just completed my first year of the Animal Health Technology program at Lakeland College in order to become a Veterinary Technician. I am excited to use the skills I have gained from school and apply them in a clinical setting. I love all animals, but some might say I am a “crazy horse girl” as they have always been my number one.

What part of your job makes you excited to wake up and go to work every day?

I am very excited to interact with new people, help animals by applying the skills taught to me in my first year of education, and learn new and interesting things on a daily basis.

Funny, quick habit or tidbit about you:

I spend most of my time with friends and family. I like being outside as much as I can, going to sporting events, and riding horses. When I was younger, I played soccer. My parents would look for me out on the field but would always find me on the sidelines petting each dog I came across. Needless to say, my soccer skills remain subpar, but my animal-loving nature has continued to grow!

Alaynna Heintz

Veterinary Office Assistant

Quick Facts:

I began working in veterinary medicine in 2014 at a busy 24-hour emergency clinic. I completed a majority of my RVT schooling, though deferred my studies once I had my second child. 

Once I returned from maternity leave, I began pursuing my ultimate dream of becoming a veterinarian and started my B.Sc at Athabasca University. While I am highly interested in emergency medicine, I am even more passionate about connecting with pets and their humans. 

What part of your job makes you excited to wake up and go to work every day?

When you engage with a client, what is your ultimate goal? What do they expect from you?

My ultimate goal when engaging with clients is that they feel heard, safe, and respected. People can expect for me to empathize with them, listen, and help educate them in areas they would like to be more knowledgeable about. I may even throw in a good (or awful) dad joke once in a while! Forming bonds with pets is important, but so is building those connections with pet owners. I really enjoy hearing stories and getting to know our clients more!

Funny, quick habit or tidbit about you:

When I am not at work, you can either find me with my 2 kiddos, hiking in the mountains, or rewatching Harry Potter for the zillionth time. 

Maddie Harder

Veterinary Office Assistant

Quick Facts:

I have been a veterinary assistant for eleven years and couldn’t imagine a better career than working in the animal health world. Growing up, I always wanted to be involved in the veterinary community, and I have absolutely found my place! Animals have always been a passion, and I’ve been lucky enough to have had some amazing furkids in my life – three hamsters, a chinchilla, a Shih-Tzu x Lhasa Apso, and two kitties (one of which might be part goblin). They’ve all taught me something new along the way, and I am excited to learn about your own fur family’s special quirks that make them wonderful! I’m thrilled to be part of an amazing team that will help keep them unique and wonderful for years to come.

What part of your job makes you excited to wake up and go to work every day?

I love the fact that while we are helping animals every day, we are also helping their pet parents. The bond between pets and their owners is such a huge, important part of both their lives, and doing everything we can to preserve and celebrate it is an incredible honour. I want to ensure that pets and pet parents alike feel comforted and supported wherever they are in their journey through life.

Funny, quick habit or tidbit about you:

I love playing card games like What Do You Meme, but they generally aren’t built for just two people to play. So, pets started to get dealt with to make it possible. I have lost a shameful number of games to my now-passed Shih-Tzu mix, who was the reigning Queen of Cards Against Humanity.

Dr. Steve Boyer

Associate Veterinarian

Quick Facts:

I am a proud born-and-raised Calgarian who graduated from the University of Calgary, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, in 2013. I started my career in a 24-hour emergency hospital and then transitioned into a primary care role. Being a veterinarian allows me to continuously learn, and I particularly enjoy surgery, dentistry, and, of course, puppy and kitten appointments!

When you engage with a client, what is your ultimate goal? What can they expect from you?

Professionally, my ultimate goal in each consultation is to ensure clients feel comfortable, receive value, and leave knowing we have a plan going forward. Clients can always expect honesty and compassion from me.

Fun Facts:

On a more personal note, I am a very active guy. I am often found on the hockey rink in the winter or golfing in the summer. I also like to keep busy working on home renovation projects or strumming the guitar. Some other fun facts about me are that I have a hat obsession and love travelling with my wife, Gillian, specifically to locations rich with wildlife.

Dr. Jessie Wilkins

Associate Veterinarian

Fun Facts:

I graduated from UCVM in 2015 and also hold a BA in Intercultural Communications. I come to Royal Loop after spending my first years out of vet school in emergency medicine. I loved the fast pace and daily learning in emergency medicine but missed developing longer-term relationships with my clients. I have special interests in internal medicine, diagnostic imaging, and, of course, emergencies! I love working with clients to find the best solutions for their fuzzy family members.

What do you love about the community?

Royal Loop is one of my favourite communities in Calgary — our family can be found here many weekends! Our favourite adventures include stopping for a coffee and a snack in Royal Loop and then taking a long walk at the zoo. I’m looking forward to spending more of my days in the area!

Funny, quick habit or tidbit about you:

I love to travel and learn about other cultures. My favourite adventures include ski-doing on ice roads in the northern Sahtu region of the NWT, building homes in El Salvador, pulling a parasite out of my toe in Kenya, and attending a disco party on a boat in China. My real passion lies in hearing people’s stories and getting a glimpse into what is important to them. I look forward to meeting you and your little creature at Royal Loop!

Dr. Scott Kelman

Associate Veterinarian

Quick facts:

I graduated from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon in 1998. After one year in mixed animal practice north of Saskatoon, my wife Wendy and I moved to Calgary where we’ve remained ever since to raise our family. I was a practice owner for 10 years in southeast Calgary then a clinician in a busy 24-hour emergency hospital for another 10 years prior to joining Royal Loop Vet Clinic.  

What part of your job makes you excited to wake up and go to work every day?

I could not be more excited about what Royal Loop Vet Clinic has to offer our patients and their families in the years to come. This is a top-notch facility with a deep, talented, compassionate team already in place from day one. I advocate passionately for my patients to help them make the best decisions possible for their health and well-being.

Funny, quick habit or tidbit about you:

In my spare time, I enjoy smoking meat…probably too much meat. But I’ve recently purchased an E-bike to tool around the city’s paths, so I think I’ve discovered some balance. I love scuba diving, reading and listening to music. Like Tracey, I am passionate (read: fanatical) about the Saskatchewan Roughriders — Go Riders! My own pet crew includes two sassy Devon Rex cats named Chad and Harrison as well as a rescue Greyhound named Vincent van Dogh and a rescue Heinz-57 named Hula.

Tracey Ruzicka

Owner, Clinic Administrator, Registered Veterinary Technologist

Quick facts:

I’ve been an RVT since 1998 and have worked in management since 2007. Throughout most of my career, I’ve focused on working with dogs and cats, although I also have experience with cattle (both beef and dairy) and some diversified livestock. I have two cats at home: Kokanee, who will be 15 this year, and Frankie Blues Eyes, who is around four years old. I was born and raised in Saskatchewan but moved to Calgary in 2000.

Funny, quick habit or tidbit about you:

My 15 min of fame:

I am a huge Rider fan; our crew has made TSN a few times over the years, no big deal. At one Halloween game here in Calgary, the cameraman did numerous close-ups of my friend and me…. multiple times. I guess he was getting a kick out of us conversing during the game. My phone and Facebook were blowing up with friends and family in Sask watching me on TSN. I had no idea until after because my phone was silenced in my purse. Sigh….. Then, my mother also included this photo in the family Christmas letter she sent out to everyone. I did not know until I got my copy in the mail.

Dr. Jodi Harbour

DVM

Dr. Jodi Harbour is a born and raised Calgarian who wanted to be a veterinarian since she was a young child. With her love of animals and her sights aimed on that goal, there was no stopping her. Jodi started volunteering in the veterinary profession in 2003. She then worked at the same veterinary practice to build and grow her skills and client patient relationships until 2024. She received her Bachelor of Science in Zoology, with distinction, from the University of Calgary in 2009, and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, with distinction, from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 2014. Dr. Harbour has a passion for small animal medicine, particularly in preventative medicine, dentistry, surgery, as well as both senior and palliative care. Dr. Harbour encourages collaborative medicine to give the most comprehensive and effective care for each patient.

Dr. Harbour has a sweet senior orange tabby named Little Miss Mello and a whoodle (wheaten poodle cross) named Juno with her partner. She also loves quality time with her fur friends and meeting new critters and fur babies while on adventures.

Jodi enjoys partaking in all sorts of activities and adventures with her family and friends. She especially enjoys quality time in the mountains appreciating nature. Some of the activities that she loves doing include yoga, golfing, hiking, biking, camping, rock/ice climbing and snowboarding. Dr. Harbour also loves to travel to take in the beauty and diversity that the world has to offer. These activities have come to be known as her “fill my cup” time to help provide the balance she needs to make her the caring and hard-working veterinarian that she is.

Jodi is very excited to join our team and start this next chapter in her career with Royal Loop Vet Clinic.

Dr. Heather Pineo

Veterinarian

Quick facts about me:

Since the age of seven, Heather has aspired to be a veterinarian, nurtured by a life in upper Elbow Park/South Calgary surrounded by animals and supportive parents. After earning a Science degree in Ecology from the University of Calgary, she graduated with distinction from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 1994. Following several years in rural practice, Heather returned to Marda Loop with her husband, where they raised three wonderful sons and worked at various small animal clinics throughout the city.

What part of your job makes you excited to wake up and go to work every day?

As the Alberta Director for The Paw Project, Heather passionately advocates for the ban on cat declawing across North America, ensuring that animal welfare remains a top priority. Every day is a privilege to partner with pets and their families in maintaining wellness and addressing health challenges. Collaborating with Calgary’s veterinary community to create effective care plans for animals in need is incredibly fulfilling. With a strong focus on animal welfare and pain prevention, she strives to make science accessible and understandable for clients.

What do you love about the community?

Heather treasures the vibrant Calgary community, especially spots like River Park and Sandy Beach, where she enjoys quality time with friends and family. A fan of Marda Loop Brewery’s Big Juice NEIPA and HotShop hot yoga, she appreciates the unique character of the neighbourhood, especially having Our Daily Brett as a neighbour. Heather’s home is a sanctuary for animals, featuring a mix of rescued pets, special needs creatures (including a three-legged hamster and a blind frog), and currently, two dogs, two cats, and a 30-year-old box turtle named Sammy Nella. An avid scuba diver and disc golf enthusiast, she also judges springboard and platform diving at the international level.

Dr. Ashley Hawley

Veterinarian

Growing up in Cochrane AB, Ashley knew from a young age that she wanted to work with animals in some capacity. She grew up having dogs and cats and was always wanting to spend time at her childhood friends’ properties with horses and loads of other pets. As Ashley was drawn to science and medicine in school, veterinary medicine just made sense!

Ashley obtained a BSc in Zoology from the University of Calgary and graduated from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 2009. She started her veterinary career at a small animal practice in Regina SK but ultimately came back to practice in Calgary in 2010 to be closer to home.

Ashley is passionate about pet wellness and preventative care, pain management and surgery, and loves the bond that general practice allows her to form with patients and clients. She enjoys how each day is different in the clinic and the ways that this challenges her to grow in her practice.

In her free time Ashley enjoys camping (or “glamping” more accurately!), card games, puzzles, travelling and spending time with her husband and daughter. She is an avid water skier in the summer and enjoys stand-up paddle boarding and wake surfing as well. She is also a bookworm and is known to devour the latest Rom-Com and Romantasy books while cuddling with her adorable tabby cat Ember on the couch!