Lea has a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry with minors in biology, chemistry, and math. She went back to school 2004 and completed her Masters of Science in Hospital Administration. Lea has 7 years of veterinary hospital administration experience and clinical training. A dedicated pet lover, her household includes 5 cats and one dog.

Rennie was trained as a veterinary assistant by the United States Army. She has 7 years of clinical experience at Scott Air Force Base with a special ability to hand raise orphaned kittens. The loving care she and her husband give these orphans leads to very spoiled kitten brats. She is the pet parent to one cat named Spike. 

Micki is a devoted mother with a house full of pets. She also earned her RN degree in 2005. She has three years experience as a veterinary receptionist and is an accomplished assistant.

George, Blood Donor and Adventurer

After a significant period of mourning the passing of Gabby, Hope Animal Hospital adopted George from Open Door Animal Sanctuary.

This is one cool dude. Laidback and friendly our biggest problem is keeping people from stealing George. Don’t even think of it, we adore him.

George has a job as a blood donor it’s just not demanding. He has yet been called into service.

He does need male bonding frequently. He defiantly gets tired of being surrounded by all women. Any man around the place cannot sit down for long without George needing some lap time.

George also likes to go outside. When you visit please do not let him out.

Like any Prima Donna Cricket has no duties other than make sure everybody is doing what she wants all the time. Her voice is as annoying and constant as a cricket stuck in the house.

No, Cricket is not pregnant. She came to us because she has a chronic skin disease. She has to be on steroids and it gives her a pot belly. Please don’t tell her this because she thinks she is slim and sleek.

If it is not nap time Cricket will visit you when you come by Hope Animal Hospital.

Lilly and Lenny, Bunny Ambassadors

Lilly and Lenny have some laid out digs in the bunny/kitty room but don’t think they lack attention. Most clients can see them past the reception area and ask to visit. We often take new bunny owners back to see how to set up a play area and see what toys bunnies like.

Lilly was a bunny Hope Animal Hospital took in when her toes were being bit off by a predator when she was kept in an outside hutch. Lenny was here from the Missouri House Rabbit Society for his neuter. When Lilly saw him with his long soft ears it was love at first site. They immediately got married and set up house keeping. Many people do not like to adopt white bunnies with pink eyes but they have a lot going for them in personality.

At the end of the day if we feel a little stressed we turn out the lights and watch the goldfish swim around. What a great way to end the day.

Gabby Smith, Hospital Royalty

Gabby Smith lived with her pet mother in St. Louis. Her mother had to have surgery so Gabby stayed by herself. Her mother is an old friend of Dr. Beisswenger so Dr. Beisswenger cared for Gabby in her home for months. Gabby definitely did not think she needed her medication and even resorted to biting Dr. Beisswenger. Her mother had to go into assisted living so Gabby came to live with us. Gabby definitely runs the show.

After a long battle with renal disease and intestinal cancer Gabby crossed the rainbow bridge in March 2007. We miss her superior attitude and her demanding presence.