Dr. Shannon Gowland, DVM, DABVP

Dr Shannon Gowland graduated from OVC and then started working in a 24 hour small animal primary care and emergency hospital in Ottawa. Though she enjoyed the excitement of emergency practice, primary care is her true passion as she loves getting to know her clients and patients well and providing excellent care over time. She also worked in an exotics hospital caring for birds, reptiles and wildlife. Dr Shannon loves cats and worked at a feline only practice, but ultimately missed the dogs too much and returned to working with both cats and dogs. Dr Shannon was the first veterinarian to work at the OVC Smith Lane Animal Hospital when it opened in 2010 as a primary care teaching hospital. Dr Shannon became ABVP board certified as a specialist in Canine and Feline Practice in 2018. Her special interests include dermatology, behaviour, ophthalmology and ultrasound. Helping our students to learn how to provide excellent care for our patients, from communication with our clients to performing thorough physical examinations, making diagnostic and treatment plans, and supervising surgical procedures is incredibly rewarding. She loves continuing to learn new techniques and ideas. Dr Shannon and her husband have two children who are both University of Guelph students. They love their Standard Poodle Finn and their brown tabby cat named Bikkie. Outside of work Dr Shannon loves to swim, paddleboard, kayak, hike and spend time at the cottage.

Dr. Tiffany Durzi, DVM, CVA. CCRT. CVPP, DABVP

Dr. Durzi, an Ontario Veterinary College 2000 alumni who has been a Primary Care Veterinary Educator at the OVC Smith Lane Animal Hospital since 2010. Dr. Durzi is Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA), a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) and a Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner (CVPP) and she is the Chief of Service at the OVC Fitness and Rehabilitation Service and the Section Head of OVC Primary Care. She became a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) in Canine and Feline Medicine in 2021 and has a special interest in pet mobility and chronic pain management. She is a member of the ABVP organizing committee for the Veterinary Pain Management Fellowship. She has a hungry pug mix named Chewy and a curious tabby cat named Gus; both who motivate her to be the best vet she can be.

Tiffany, is the Chief of Veterinarian at the OVC Fitness and Rehabilitation Service, established in 2013. She has a special interest in integrative medicine and pain management. She is a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA) through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS), a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) through the Canine Rehabilitation Institute (CRI), and a Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner (CVPP) through the International Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM). Dr. Durzi has a special interest in treating chronic pain. She is currently pursuing her board certification in canine/feline medicine through the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP). Tiffany currently resides in Guelph, Ontario with her two beautiful children, husband and pets.

Dr. Omar Khan, DVM

Dr. Khan graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2000 and began working at a 24-hour hospital doing a mix of emergency medicine and preventative health care. He developed a passion for veterinary dentistry, ophthalmology and ultrasound while at that hospital for 10 years, attending numerous lectures, workshops and courses to advance his clinical, surgical and diagnostic skills.
During 2010 to 2017, Dr. Khan moved to Trinidad and Tobago, working at the School of Veterinary Medicine, The University of The West Indies, to oversee their Veterinary Teaching Hospital and instruct final year students in surgery and diagnostic ultrasound. In 2018, he joined the OVC Smith Lane Animal Hospital Team to strengthen their veterinary dental component, increasing phase four student veterinarians’ exposure to this aspect of preventative health care, and incorporating diagnostic ultrasound wherever possible.

While not at OVC, Dr. Khan most enjoys spending time with his wife, three children, four dogs and three cats. He also works at various emergency hospitals, another passion of his; and volunteers with the Guelph Humane Society and Brampton Animal Services.

Dr. Kate Wycherley, DVM

Dr. Kate Wycherley earned her veterinary degree from the Ontario Veterinary College as a member of the class of 2019. She started her career at a busy mixed animal practice, which affirmed her love of small animal medicine and surgery. Kate holds a particular place in her heart for feline medicine, dentistry, soft tissue surgery, and ophthalmology. It was her love of teaching however, that made it clear that Smith Lane was the perfect place to be.

In her spare time, Kate loves spending time with her husband, Kyle, and her cat Midna. Kate loves any opportunity to take in a good story, be that through the fantasy books she can't put down or through the podcasts that make up the background noise of her day-to-day life. She also takes every opportunity to be creative, with art supplies littering every room of her house.

Kate is so excited to have the opportunity to help animals in the community she loves so much and is so happy to be a member of a team that feels the same way.

Jacy Erling, BSc, RVT, CCRP

Jacy earned her BSc in Animal Biology from the University of Guelph in 2013 and graduated from Seneca College’s Veterinary Techician program in 2016. Jacy was lucky to have started her RVT career at OVC right after graduating and has never left! She worked in both small animal surgery and the ICU, before coming to the Primary Healthcare Center in 2018. Jacy has since completed her Canine Rehabilitation certification from the University of Tennessee in 2021. Jacy works in both our general practice and Rehab department.
Jacy loves the variety that general practice brings every day; she especially loves anything hands on that helps further develop her nursing skills and the many interesting cases that keep her knowledge up to date! Working at OVC also helped her discover a passion for teaching; she loves helping the final year students on rotation learn and develop confidence in their skills! Working in the Rehabilitation Department has also taught her so much about pain management, nutraceuticals and how beneficial exercise is to quality of life!
Jacy loves to spend her spare time reading True Crime on her kindle, playing tennis and volleyball, going to the gym and hanging out with friends. Jacy loves travelling and enjoys any opportunity to volunteer her time in Animal Shelters abroad! Jacy and her partner, Spencer, are kept busy at home with their rescue dog, Lucy, and two cats, Milo and Billy.

Alicia Lorch, RVT, CCRVN

Alicia is a true animal lover, big and small. She knew from a very young age that she wanted to surround herself with animals every moment of every day. When Alicia began researching jobs in the animal industry and found the description of a Veterinary Technician, she knew that it was the perfect job for her. She immediately started researching schools and before she knew it she was accepted and started her journey. Alicia attended Georgian College in Orillia were she graduated and received her diploma in April 2018. Later that year, Alicia wrote her Veterinary Technician National Exam, where she completed her educational journey and earned the title of a Registered Veterinary Technician. Alicia was lucky enough to complete her second year placement at the OVC Smith Lane Animal Hospital and was offered a position as an RVT during her time there. Alicia loves all veterinary medicine but has a particular interest in internal and emergency medicine and hopes to one day make it her specialty. When she is not at the clinic caring for others pets, Alicia enjoys spending time with her fur babies, Lumi, Faith, Katie and Billy.

Kayla Malleck, RVT

Kayla went to Northern College and graduated from her veterinary technician program in 2015. She did an extra year at Northern to complete her certificate in Companion Animal Rehabilitation in 2016 and has been working as an RVT since. Kayla has always wanted to work at OVC and was able to do her college co-op placement in anesthesia, small animal surgery and diagnostic imaging department, getting to help in a wide variety of cases. She was able to get her foot in the door through the large animal wards before getting a position at Smith Lane Animal Hospital in 2022! She would like to work on getting her equine certification in rehabilitation in the future so she can help large and small animals feel and perform their best!
In her free time, she loves to spend it outside enjoying nature with her dogs or horse. She is trying to learn how to garden and grow her own fruits and veggies for her and her family to enjoy. Otherwise, she can be found reading a book and hoping her cat will curl up beside her!

Aaryn Murray, RVT

Aaryn graduated with honours from the Vet Tech Program at Seneca College in 2019. After working several positions within the OVC, she started at PHC in 2020. With her passion for teaching and senior animal care, and special interest in small animal dentistry and anesthesia, Aaryn has found PHC to be the perfect place for her. She has participated in several Community Veterinary Outreach Programs and strongly believes that veterinary care should be accessible for everyone.

Aaryn also assists in the Clinical Skills course for the phase two and three DVM students, teaching dentistry labs and guiding students in their surgical exercises.

In her spare time, Aaryn can be found playing basketball or volleyball, reading Game of Thrones, or taking her two dogs for a swim: a 14-year-old lab mix named Cleo, and a three-year-old English Setter named Rush. They, along with her two cats Violet and Lola, keep her very busy!

Mercedes Ready-Campbell, RVT

Mercedes went to school at the U of G Ridgetown Campus and graduated with distinction, earning her Diploma of Veterinary Technology, in 2023. Right now, Mercedes splits her time as an RVT between the OVC Large Animal Clinic Wards and here at Smith Lane Animal Hospital. In these early stages of her career, she developed a passion for emergency medicine; she loves the fast-paced environment and she is considering working towards a Veterinary Technology Specialty in Emergency and Critical Care. In her free time, Mercedes love to ride her horse Sally, hike with her beagle Louise, and rock climb with friends.

Charlotte Donohoe, RVT

Charlotte earned her B. A. In psychology from York University but decided to continue her studies in the field of animal medicine. She obtained her Veterinary Technician Diploma from Seneca College and became an RVT. Charlotte's career at OVC has spanned over 25 years and she cannot imagine working anywhere else. Her journey at OVC began in the Large Animal Hospital, but her interest in emergency medicine eventually led her to a position in the Small Animal ICU. After many years in the ICU Charlotte sought and obtained her Veterinary Technician Specialty in Emergency and Critical Care. Charlotte has shared her knowledge and skills through lecturing at provincial, national and international conferences, and has authored a textbook for veterinary technicians in addition to several book chapters and articles. In 2019 Charlotte switched gears and moved to Smith Lane to follow her interest in canine and feline rehabilitation and became a certified canine rehabilitation practitioner (CCRP) in 2020. She has enjoyed the rewarding experiences offered by general practice and thrives on the incredible successes of all of the rehabilitation patients at OVC's Fitness and Rehabilitation Service. Charlotte enjoys a busy and active life outside of work training and competing in dressage, and paddling and camping with her husband and three children. While the family is at work, their home is watched over by their snuggly German Shepherd and their fierce Bengal cat.

Katie Warner

Katie went to Conestoga College for Police Foundations and Seneca College for Veterinary Technician. After working with the OSPCA doing investigations, Katie switched paths and started to work at the Ontario Veterinary College. She worked at the OVC Companion hospital in many roles such as Anesthesia Technician, Client Services and Internal Medicine Client Liaison. During covid Katie took an opportunity to come over to Smith Lane and hasn't looked back since.
In Katie's free time you can fine her spending time with her friends, family and with her two cats Jett and Rupert. She also has started playing roller derby with Guelph's Royal City Roller Derby and has been loving the exercise and learning a new sport.

Liz Clemens

Liz graduated from University of Guelph in Ridgetown as a Veterinary Office Administration and Assistant in 2015. The first 2 years of her career were spent in a routine local small animal vet clinic, which she was able to assist with appointments and help clients at the front desk. Her passion is people and animals always wanting to care equally for both. She then decided to follow up with her dream of working at the University of Guelph in 2018. Liz started as a Hospital Assistant doing inventory control and ensuring that all treatment areas were ready for patients and clinical staff. Liz is happy to be working at Smith Lane Animal Hospital helping all her clients/patients human and furry. Liz spends most of her free time with her husband going to the beach, hiking, travelling and hanging with friends. She loves baseball and volleyball. She is also a loving step mom of Chloe and Megan.

Tahliesa Reid

Tahliesa graduated in 2022 with an Honours Bachelor of Science in Marine and Freshwater biology here at the University of Guelph. She joined the veterinary community in 2020 working at an emergency clinic. Tahliesa later joined OVC where she has been working more hands on in areas such as animal care, surgery, and diagnostics assisting the medical team. With her passion for aquatic animals, research, and now the veterinary field Tahliesa hopes to one day work in an area that encompasses these elements. Wherever the future takes her, she hopes to focus on animal and ecological wellbeing whether that is helping individuals or ecosystems.
During her downtime Tahliesa can be found hiking with her youngest dog Willow, sunbathing with her old pup Tyke, or feeding her bearded dragon Drogon. She enjoys being outside anytime the weather is warm and has recently gotten back into reading.

Kyla Perrin

Kyla has grown up around animals and has had a love and passion to care for them her whole life. Kyla went to school at the University of Guelph for a bachelors degree in psychology and will be pursuing a career outside of veterinary medicine - however the Smith Lane Animal Hospital has been a huge part of her life for a number of years now, and she has learned so many valuable things from the amazing team she works alongside. Outside of work, Kyla enjoys hiking and exploring new trails with her 5 year old pup named Murphy, playing volley ball, boxing, hanging out with friends, cooking and learning new crafts. Kyla's future career will be serving the two legged members of her community instead of the furry four-legged, that being said, she will always hold this position and the Smith Lane family near and dear to her heart.

Sofia Pinol

Sofia is currently completing a Bachelor of Science in Animal Biology at the University of Guelph, driven by her lifelong passion for animals. With previous experience as an animal caretaker at a research facility and a background in volunteering at an animal shelter, she joined PHC as a customer service associate in the summer of 2023. Since then, she has also volunteered as an undergraduate research assistant in the Pathobiology department at OVC and taken on a role as an animal care attendant at the Companion Animal Hospital. After graduation, Sofia hopes to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. In her free time, Sofia enjoys thrifting and movie nights with friends, volunteering at the Guelph Humane Society, and exploring new coffee shops.

Brandon Wagner

Brandon is the newest member to the OVC Smith Lane Animal Hospital team when he joined in June 2024. He has recently graduated from Western University with an Honours Specialization in Environmental Sciences and is now excitedly pursuing his career in veterinary medicine. Driven with a passion for the welfare of animals, he has obtained experience in a variety of related roles, ranging from volunteering at local animal clinics, to working as a barn hand where he took care of horses, as well as working as a rehabilitation assistant at his hometown's animal hospital. He hopes to one day advocate for and provide excellent medical care to every animal he is given the privilege of working with as a licensed veterinarian. Outside of the veterinary world, Brandon has many hobbies and interests, such as drawing, baking, working out, and finding fun ways to enjoy nature.

Charles Boo

Charles grew up nearby in Waterloo, and since 2017 he has been working and volunteering in many different sectors of small animal care including local wildlife & companion animal rehabilitation, ethical use of animals in research, emergency medicine, and several non-profits. In 2020 Charles graduated from the University of Waterloo with a BSc in Honours Biology. Combining his affinity for science and a strong sense of responsibility for the welfare of animals, Charles then pursued a veterinary education and was admitted to OVC in 2023. Throughout his experiences Charles has picked up keen interests in internal medicine, rehabilitation, diagnostic imaging, and an emphasis in Minimally Invasive Procedures (MIPs). It is Charles’ goal to grow as a future practitioner and contribute to the profession by advocating for its standards, serving our community, and being actively involved in the mentorship of the future generation to ensure the prosperity of veterinary medicine.

Aside from school and work Charles is also passionate about coffee, cars, discovering new music, and online shopping. You can often find Charles on hikes with his canine companion, Jax, or on all sorts of adventures with his other half.

Nathan Lau

Nathan graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2022 and began his journey at the Ontario Veterinary College the same year. Currently a Phase 3 student, he is immersed in learning from experienced veterinarians. Nathan has experience working with horses and swine, but his passion has always been in small animal veterinary care. He is particularly interested in emergency and critical care as well as surgery, and rehabilitation. He is gaining valuable insights into preventive care, diagnostics, and compassionate treatment under the mentorship of seasoned veterinarians.
Outside of his studies, Nathan enjoys staying active by working out and playing sports. He also enjoys hiking with his dog, Kolah. These activities keep him energized and balanced.
Nathan is dedicated to contributing to the community's bond between pets and their owners. He looks forward to applying his knowledge to ensure every pet receives the attention and care they deserve.

Ben Ehrismann

Sonia Randhawa

Sonia began working in private veterinary hospitals in 2003 in various support roles, working her way up to practice management. She decided to take a shot at studying Veterinary Medicine and returned to school as a mature student in 2008, attending the University of Guelph to eventually complete her BSc. While admittance into OVC as a student didn’t work out, Sonia knew one way or another she would be a part of this institution and got hired instead! She began working with the University of Guelph in 2012 with OVC’s Alumni and Advancement team on fundraising initiatives and events for the college. While this was a nice change and a chance to develop a new skill set, Sonia missed the clinic environment. The perfect opportunity to utilize new leadership skills and return to a clinic became available in 2016 to manage the OVC Hill's Primary Healthcare Centre. Sonia jumped at it and didn’t look back! Sonia’s favorite aspect of the job is working with the most dedicated and passionate team – not just towards the medicine, service, and care they offer patients and clients, but towards DVM students ensuring they have the best experience while here. They work hard, play hard, and support each other through thick and thin.

Sonia and her partner proudly care for their cat, Caramel, and their two dogs, Phoenix and Mighty. They also hold a special place in their hearts for their beloved boy, Benny, who was the heart and soul of their home and is profoundly missed.

Dr. Deep Khosa BSc, BVMS, MANZCVS (Small Animal Medicine), PhD

I graduated from Murdoch University in Perth, Western Australia as a veterinarian in 1996. The first 5 years of my career were spent in suburban general practice, during which time I also passed my exams for qualification as a Member to the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientist (MANZCVS) in the field of Small Animal Medicine. My next 12 years of clinical practice were back at Murdoch University in the General Practice (Primary Care) department, where I continued to develop a wide range of skills in medicine, surgery, and enjoyed meeting and interacting with an array of pets, pet owners, and veterinary students. After years of clinical practice, I completed my PhD in the field of veterinary education in 2014 and have remained very passionate about teaching, learning and the practice of primary veterinary care – now here at the Ontario Veterinary College as Associate Professor and Academic Coordinator in Primary Healthcare Education.