Our Staff

Staff Staff

Practice Manager

Practice Managers Mary Francuz at IVS-UP and Sharon Freshour at IVS-Northpark, have been actively caring for pets and people, and their respective staffs, for over 23 years. A Practice Manager’s primary responsibility is assuring the smooth day-to-day operations of a Veterinary Hospital, open 7 days a week, with primary emphasis on overseeing strict standards of quality care.

Mary Francuz
Mary Francuz

"At IVS-UP we know that clients value a special relationship with their Veterinarian and staff. After 32 years in practice we are fortunate to have a sizeable base of both longtime and new clients," comments Mary Francuz. "The most significant challenge we face each day is to take time with our clients - to explain not only the details of today's treatment or service but what "well care" and preventative care options should be addressed in the future. Healthy and happy pets are the result of well educated owners - we are dedicated to making sure that our clients are as educated as we are in caring for our own pets!"

Sharon Freshour
Sharon Freshour

"I enjoy being able to interact with both clients as well as their pets. There’s nothing like a soft, furry greeting to turn your day around. I am thrilled to be in a practice with such competent and caring doctors and staff. I relish the opportunity to get to know the wonderful client/pet base at IVS-Northpark and am excited to be a part of such a truly caring and upbeat team. I look forward to many years of success at IVS."
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Assistant Managers

Heather Finney
Heather Finney

"I have enjoyed working with the staff at IVS for over 10 years.  It is rewarding to work with a group of individuals that are so dedicated to helping pets and the people who love them.  What gives me the greatest satisfaction is when we can treat a pet and have such a positive impact on its quality of life."

Melanie Capps
Melanie Capps

"Having grown up on a farm in Texas, I've always had a deep love for animals. After years of training and showing horses, I decided to join the veterinary world as a receptionist when I was 17 years old. I later went on to become an office manager then a veterinary technician for many years. I've always loved my job and can't imagine being in another field."
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Head Technicians

Chris Tanaka
Chris Tanaka

Head Technician Chris Tanaka has been working with Dr. Cole at IVS-UP for over 14 years. "I love the medicine," comments Chris. "It is my responsibility to make sure our extremely competent six-technician staff has the most advanced equipment available to them and the most up-to-date training. It is my express responsibility to oversee the maintenance and calibration of all hospital equipment-from an oxygen generator to our ultrasound unit and digital x-ray unit.

By supporting my Tech team I am assuring that all patient care and treatment is always at the highest level. As Technicians our job is to provide treatment and diagnostic support to our Veterinary staff enabling them to focus on diagnosis and treatment protocols. Together our primary role is assuring pet comfort and clear communication with our clients."

Aimee Schildt
Aimee Schildt

Head Technician Aimee Schildt at IVS-Northpark is an IVS veteran of six years and is a seasoned technician with over 17 years experience in Veterinary Medicine. "Our 4 tech staff is excited about our new Northpark location and is enjoying the daily opportunity to see long-time clients and the many new clients. Our new facility is equipped with the latest technology - and we are using it to practice the highest quality medicine available."
Staci Lemke
Staci Lemke

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Technician/Nursing Staff

Technician/Nursing StaffTechnician/Nursing Staff


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Receptionist Staff

Receptionist StaffReceptionist Staff


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