Our Staff

• Dr. Neil A. Patton , Practice Owner

  
  

  Born in Upstate New York, Dr. Patton has considered Las Vegas his hometown since 1962. By Vegas standards, that makes him practically a native! Dr. Patton is a graduate of Rancho High School, where he met his wife and co-owner, Erna. He attended the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) with an interest in wildlife management and medicine and graduated in 1976 with a dual Baccalaureate in Biology and Zoology and a minor in Chemistry. He decided to combine his interest in both fields, and was accepted to Colorado State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Patton graduated Colorado State University with his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 1980, and decided to return to his hometown of Las Vegas. “With parents, 3 brothers, and 1 sister, there was a practice just waiting for me”. In 1983 he did just that and became the proud owner of Rainbow Animal Hospital. Twenty-five years later Dr. Patton continues to be on the cutting edge of veterinary medicine, keeping his hospital supplied with the latest technology.  In addition, he is a big advocate of his team members attending continuing education classes. His special interests include veterinary dentistry, cardiac disease, laparoscopy and ultrasonography. He also has a special interest in working with the wonderful clients who rescue those beautiful gentle Greyhounds. Dr. Patton is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Nevada Veterinary Medical Association, the American Animal Hospital Association, and the American Veterinary Dental Society. He was also honored by Las Vegas Life magazine out of over 300 veterinarians, as one of the city’s best vets. When not attending a continuing education class somewhere he can be found enjoying photography, especially wildlife photography, hiking, and in general loving the great outdoors. He also enjoys going to the gym (a necessity being over 50), reading, and going to the movies. Except for one old mangy male cat, Timmy, Dr. Patton has the challenge of living in a household of females. He and Erna have two daughters, Lindsay, 23 and Jordan 17. “It has been wonderful seeing our two girls grow into the beautiful individuals they are today”. Rounding out the female roster include canines: Bailey, the Golden Retriever, Betty, the Japanese Chin, Becky, the yapping Papillion, felines: Timmy’s littermate, Rachel, and Shelby, his wife’s soul mate. “I truly love my profession. Each day brings new challenges. Like the day Maggie, a Labrador Retriever, was brought in after someone saw her swallow a golf ball at the driving range. Radiographs revealed that these had become something of a regular dietary supplement. Six were surgically removed from her stomach. She has since then entered rehab, and is now the spokes dog for GBEA, Golf Ball Eaters Anonymous". “If you are fortunate enough to have a companion pet that lives to be 16-20 years of age, remember he or she is equivalent to a 90-100 human being, and you are a fortunate soul indeed”.

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• Dr. Elizabeth L Wolf , Associate Veterinarian

  
  

  Dr. Elizabeth Wolf has been a member of our professional staff since 1999.  Las Vegas born, and Mid-West raised, she grew up in Missouri.  She attended the University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou) where she graduated in 1993 with a Baccalaureate of Science in Biology, and a dual minor in Chemistry and French.  She received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 1997 from the University of Missouri-Columbia. When she began college it was Dr. Wolf's desire to go into research.  She soon realized that meant a whole lot of time watching fruit flies breed, or the equivalent.  Her journey led her to a volunteer position at Noah's Ark Animal Hospital in Columbia, Missouri where she spent long hours doing kennel work and multiple flea and tick bathes for free.  There, she found her calling, and loved it.  When she learned she could combine the hands-on work with medicine and surgery, she decided a career in veterinary medicine was for her.  The following year she was accepted into the school of veterinary medicine and 15 years later is still following her professional passion.  Her special areas of interest include anesthesiology, pain management, dentistry and feline medicine, including feline rescue.  She has the honor of holding the unofficial title of the Rainbow Cat Pimp! Dr. Wolf is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, a National Public Radio member, a member of the Ultimate Players Association, and a proud card carrying member of the Mizzou Alumni Association. In 2003 the former Elizabeth Steininger met and married Eric Wolf, and today are the parents of a 1 1/2 year old daughter, Eileen.  When not doting over her daughter, Dr. Wolf enjoys swimming, hiking, cycling, downhill skiing, yoga, and is a voracious reader.  Dr. Wolf, Eric, and Eileen also share their home with Millie, a 9 year old rescue cat, Petunia, a 7 year old rescue cat that survived facial reconstruction surgery after being hit by a car as a stray, and keeping the cats in line is Typhon, a mixed breed dog.

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• Dr. Alric Vensand , Associate Veterinarian

  
  

  As elusive as a native Las Vegan is, so is the legendary native Coloradoan.  Associate Veterinarian, Dr.Vensand, is just that man.  Born and raised in the beautiful city of Littleton, Colorado, he moved to Fort Collins, Colorado to attend Colorado State University.  He received his Baccalaureate of Science in Microbiology in 2003.  Fulfilling his lifetime ambition of becoming a Veterinarian, he received his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Colorado State University in 2007.  While attending the College of Veterinary Medicine, he met his fiancée, Dr.Terri Fujikawa, also a Veterinarian. Since Dr. Fujikawa is from Hawaii, and Dr. Vensand is from Colorado, jointly they decided Las Vegas would be a nice mid-way point to begin their new life and careers. They are eagerly planning a September, 2008 wedding.    Dr. Vensand is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, and his medical passion lies in internal medicine, neurology, endoscopy, and laparoscopy. He feels fortunate to be part of this profession, as it is truly an amazing profession.  He feels every day brings new challenges, and the chance to help his patients and their quality of life with their human family members.   When not attending to his patients, Dr. Vensand enjoys camping, skiing, team sports (especially basketball and dodge ball) and hanging out with friends and family. If only he could combine all those interest at Disneyland, he’d be one happy man!   Keeping Knuckles, the Hedgehog company at the Vensand home is Bishop, the male pug, Monty, the German Shorthaired Pointer, and Koa, the King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, all rescued dogs that found a loving home.

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• Erna Patton , Business Manager/Co-Owner

  
  

  Erna Patton has been married to not only her best friend, but also co-owner, Dr. Neil Patton since 1975.  Being one of the few actual native Las Vegans, they met at Rancho High School, and were later married while attending UNLV.  In 1976 their life's journey took them to Fort Collins, Colorado for Dr. Patton to attend Colorado State University School of Veterinary Medicine.  "I feel fortunate to have been a part of that process, and saw firsthand and respect the amount of dedication it takes to obtain your DVM degree.  My style of business management is quite simple.  If there is a major financial decision to be made, I first consult with the two Chairmen of the Board.  If they are either eating or napping (95% of the time) then I resort to the time honored Harvard Business School approved method of Rock, Paper, or Scissors.  Dr. Neil and Erna have been blessed with two amazing daughters, Lindsay and Jordan, and a houseful of sometimes less than amazing 4-legged kids, especially when one of them leaves a "present" on the floor.  Currently residing in the Patton home are:  Bailey, the Golden Retriever, Betty, the Japanese Chin, Becky, the Papillion and 3 cats:  littermates Timmy and Rachel, and the most precious soul in the feline world, Shelby.     In what little spare time Erna has she enjoys reading, gardening, spending time with her family, going to the movies, especially dumb comedies, and trying to squeeze out an extra hour or two of the day to walk/run with their Golden.  "My favorite quote is by Camus.  It is:  Live to the Point of Tears.  In this profession sometimes they are tears of sadness, when we have to say good-bye to one of our long time patients, but mostly they are tears of joy.

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• Jeanne , Practice Manager

  
  

  Jeanne has been an integral part of Rainbow Animal Hospital for 22 years.  Jeanne was born and raised in the suburbs outside of Philadelphia.  She attended Harcum College in Bryn Mawr, PA, and was 2/3 of the way in completing her Associates degree in Animal Health Technology when she met "the boy".  In 1986 she and Sean moved to Las Vegas.  They are the parents of ten year old  Brynn. As a child Jeanne's parents were involved in the pet care industry.  She always loved helping out when one of the pups had to go to the Vet, and thought she might like to be involved in the medical aspect of animal care.  Little did she know at the time that one day she would manage a large successful practice.  Also, at that time, she was not aware that her life would be blessed to have in it a beautiful domestic long hair kitty for 21 years, Miss Manny.  She was Jeanne's first pet as an adult, and her first child, with a personality as unique as her looks.  Miss Manny crossed over the "Rainbow Bridge" in late 2007.  Because of this once in a lifetime bond they shared, Jeanne is very cognizant of the human-animal bond, and the role the Veterinarians and the supporting healthcare team provide in managing a pet's quality of life. In Jeanne's spare time she enjoys cooking, listening to music, watching movies (or catching up on Tivo!) and making great memories with family and friends.  True to the occupational hazard of working at a veterinary hospital, Jeanne, Sean, and Brynn share their home and an industrial strength vacuum with two 5 year old Labrador brothers, Cole and Tanner, plus "Momma" the domestic long hair cat and her two sons, Prince and Twisty.  Rounding out the gang, representing the Guinea Pigs's of America is Big Momma and her son Timmy.

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• Summer , Office Manager

  
  

  Summer became a Rainbow healthcare team member in 2004.  Born in Ottawa, Canada she came to Las Vegas by way of sunny beautiful San Diego.  After 16 years of enjoying the California lifestyle of sun, surf, and sand, she and her significant other, Scott,  decided to make Las Vegas their hometown.    Her interest in veterinary medicine began at the age of 7 when she was actively involved in the care of her first pet, a black cat named Ashley.  At the age of 12 she began doing volunteer work at a family veterinary practice.  After volunteering there for several years, she accepted a permanent position dividing her time between being a receptionist and a veterinary assistant.  When she arrived at Rainbow, she decided to focus on client care by beginning as a Customer Service Representative, then later promoted to Office Manager.  Her organizational skills are phenomenal, and she is responsible for keeping Erna and Jeanne on task – not an easy feat on some days!   She has a special interest in pet weight management, much to Jimmy and Jack’s displeasure.  She has seen firsthand that so many secondary medical issues can be prevented by making smart food choices for our pets.  Much like the human dilemma, but with sad puppy eyes to contend with!    In Summer’s spare time she enjoys riding, rebuilding, and polishing vintage motorcycles and Italian scooters, cooking, camping, off- roading, photography, reading and most of all, just kicking back and enjoying life with good friends.    Summer and Scott share their life with Bodacious, a mixed breed pound puppy, Cessna, the Border Collie (named after her late brother Piper, and Summer’s fondness for airplanes) and Mr. Kitty, a female feline, who is now residing in San Diego with family in order to escape the Border collie’s constant herding.

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• Dan , Hospital Operations Manager

  
  

  Since 1999, Dan has been Rainbow Animal Hospital’s lifeline to technology.  Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, his career in the Army brought him to Las Vegas is 1989. As the hospital’s Operations Manager, he is literally responsible for maintaining the working knowledge of every piece of equipment on premise.  He is constantly excited and amazed at the technology that is being rapidly introduced into the field of Veterinary Medicine on a daily basis.  Equipment and procedures, such as digital radiography and endoscocy, that not to long ago, were only available on the human side of medicine are today considered the gold standard of care in Veterinary Medicine. Dan has been instrumental in implementing those procedures and the equipment required to our practice. One minute you’ll find him troubleshooting a $50,000 piece of surgical equipment, the next minute, explaining to Erna that the reason she can’t hear sound from her I-Pod player is because she doesn’t have the volume turned on.  He certainly earns his much deserved time off as he runs the gauntlet past Erna’s desk, Jeanne’s desk, then past Dr. Patton’s desk without hearing, “Dan, do you have a quick moment”?   When not trying to convince Dr. Patton to go paperless in the practice Dan enjoys camping, hiking, music, and after recent adventures to Maui, Hawaii, is learning to play the Ukulele.  Being the Renaissance Man that he is, Dan claims to no children, but has birthed several wonderful vacations!   Married to Carolyn since 1999, their home is filled with the pitter-patter of 4 rescued dogs:  Patra, a female Labrador cross, found in the desert as an abandoned puppy 12 years ago, Lucy, an 8 year old female Miniature Dachshund, Biscuit a 7 year old Rat Terrier and Ozzy, the 6 year old male Pekingese.  Beaver, the 9 year old male feline makes sure the dogs behave!!   Dan lives by the philosophy that “the only people with whom you should try to get even are those who have helped you”.  If only everyone could see the world that way, as Louis Armstrong sung…”What a wonderful world”.

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• Ann , LVT Manager

  
  

  As Manager of the Licensed Veterinary Technicians, Techs in Training, and Veterinary Assistants, Ann has been a valued Rainbow healthcare team member since 1994.  She holds the honor of being one of the first graduates of the accelerated Veterinary Technicians program at the College of Southern Nevada. Being a native California "Valley-Girl" from Lancaster, California, she married her high school sweetheart, Chris, and moved to her newly adopted hometown of Las Vegas.  After 14 years of marriage, and 10 years in the making, Ann and Chris received their true blessing.  They are the proud parents of one very handsome 5 year old son, Taylor.  Keeping Chris, Ann, and Taylor in line is one crazy Pekingese named "Wookie", whose talent is bringing you her squeaky toys, and being able to identify all of them. Ever since Ann was a little girl she would be the one bringing home the wounded bunny, bird, or stray animal and would nurse them back to health.  She still maintains that passion in her adult life as she assists Dr. Patton in his laparoscopies and procedures.  She also holds a special interest in dentistry and feline medicine.  In fact, it was Ann that took two very tiny abandoned kittens home every night and tube and bottle fed them every 2-3 hours until they were able to eat on their own.  Those two rascals are Timmy and Rachel Patton - Dr. Patton's daughters' cats! In the little spare time a working Mom has, Ann enjoys riding with her husband on his motorcycle, cooking, and being Taylor's Mom. True to Ann's philosophy, she believes animals are not just pets.  They are family.  In fact, many say they are their children.  She is devoted to helping them live longer and healthier lives as part of our family members.

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• Marie , LVT

  
  

  Marie has been a member of the Rainbow healthcare team since 2005.  She is another great example of the College of Southern Nevada's Veterinary Technicians program.  Always there with a "can-do" attitude she lives her life heeding the advice of an unknown author, "What one does for one's self dies with us.  What one does for others lives on".  Born in Santa Clara, California, she moved to Tonopah, Nevada in 1987, and considered Tonopah her hometown until 1998, when she moved to Las Vegas to pursue her education.  She has always had a love of medicine, and began her medical career as a CNA, on the way to becoming an RN, when she had an epiphany!  It came to her that perhaps she liked animals a little more than humans.  She has a special interest in the study of parasites and microbiology, and wound management. When not keeping us in line at the hospital, she enjoys riding motorcycles, camping, and fishing.  True to the fisherman's creed:  Any day fishing is a good day!  She shares her life with her awesome daughter, Ronnie, and her wonderful significant other, Frankie, along with Dozer, a 1 year old Bassett mix and 2 year old feline, BAM. To quote Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Happiness is a perfume you cannot pour on others without getting a few drops on yourself.  We are fortunate to have a team member with that positive outlook on life.

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• Amber

  
  

  Amber was born a Chelsea, Massachusetts army brat.  Being a member of a military family she has made several trips across the country and beyond – hanging her hat in Japan, Hawaii, Michigan, South Carolina, Texas, Florida, Massachusetts, California, and Washington D.C. In 1993 she decided to call Las Vegas, Nevada home.  She is the proud mother of two lovely daughters, Mackenzie, 16 and Madison, 18. Amber has always been involved with animals professionally, working in pet stores when she was younger, as a sales representative for wholesale pet companies, and as a volunteer at Keepers of the Wild. In August, 2005, Rainbow Animal Hospital had the privilege of Amber joining our healthcare team as a customer service representative. Amber’s very interesting assortment of furry family members include Zonker, the twenty-eight year old (yes, you heard us right!) Blue Front Amazon with a speech impediment, Puss Puss (reportedly the sweetest cat on earth, but we’ve heard this before!), three ferrets – one of which was adopted from Rainbow Animal Hospital since he was handicapped, and couldn’t find a home, and Hannah (aka: Hannibal, as in Hannibal Lecter) a very sassy chow-mix, (who is usually found hungrily eyeing Zonker).  When she is not cleaning ferret cages, walking her dog, petting her cat, talking to her Amazon, and enjoying the challenge of raising two teenage daughters, Amber enjoys getting together with friends, camping, playing bingo, and making “sock-dogs” (colorful puppets made from fun socks).  Amber’s motto is: Enjoy Life! There is plenty of time to be dead.

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• Lindsay

  
  

  Lindsay has been part of the Rainbow Animal Hospital family, and coincidentally also part of the Patton family for 23 years.  As urban legend goes, (aka: her Mom) when most newborns are discharged from the hospital, their first stop is their home with their beautifully decorated nursery, and adoring family members waiting to meet the newest member of the family.  Well, being a Vet’s kid, Lindsay’s first stop was Rainbow Animal Hospital.  Dr. Patton had a critical patient he needed to check on, and because there is no such thing as a “quick check” Lindsay also received her first feeding, and diaper change during that visit.  Thanks to the staff, when they knew Dr. Patton and Erna were on their way in,  as the new parents walked through the back door of the clinic, looking “guinea-pig scared” holding this tiny baby they were greeted with balloons, cake, champagne, and a box of “it’s a girl” cigars.  Today Lindsay’s arrival as her position of a Customer Service Representative is met with much less fan fare!   Lindsay attended Shiloh Christian School, Faith Lutheran, and graduated from the College of Southern Nevada High School.  She attended the University of Nevada, Reno, and is currently attending the College of Southern Nevada part time working toward a degree in mathematical engineering.  Making sure Lindsay is doing her homework; she shares her apartment with Kelsey, a beautiful black and white cat with huge green eyes, Jackie, an adorable but mischievous kitten, whose hobbies include getting into everything and wrestling with Kelsey and the newest victim, Louie, the 4 month old Pomeranian.   When not at the clinic or school, Lindsay enjoys shopping…duh! reading, hiking, video games, spending time with friends, going to the movies, but much to her Mother’s chagrin, not comedies, but the horror genre.    Growing up as a Vet’s kid, Lindsay has seen firsthand the tragic outcome that results of not spaying or neutering your pet, both in the overpopulation of unwanted pets, and the medical conditions that result from not performing this routine procedure.  Her philosophy in this situation is; if you are thinking of adding to your family, please visit the shelter first.  There are many friendly happy faces, most of which are already spayed, neutered, and vaccinated just begging to be part of your family.  Both of her cats are rescued cats, and are her pride and joy.

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• Sasha

  
  

  Veterinary Technician, Sasha, is a true East Coast girl, having been born in Staten Island, New York; she lived there for 12 years before moving to Las Vegas.  While working as a kennel attendant at another hospital, she observed the interaction between the technician and the patient, and it confirmed in her mind that was what she wanted to do.    She wanted to expand her knowledge of patient care, and the interaction between the patient and its caregiver.  She has a special interest in pharmacology because she loves to research and learn the different uses and effects of medicine, and also radiology.  In viewing a radiograph it allows the doctor and tech to be able to see in real time what is happening inside the body and how to proceed with treatment.   As with most of us in Veterinary Medicine, there is usually a special case that stays with us, and bonds us to the field, confirming our belief in the human-animal bond.  For Sasha it was a beagle with congestive heart failure.  She would present once a week with a build up of fluid that would require draining the fluid from her abdomen. She was such a sweet dog that weekly would endure an abdominocyntesis that Sasha would assist with.  She became quite attached to her.  A patient that Sasha will never forget, and makes her the great technician she is today.   Her spare time is spent working out at the gym, and tries to get there at least 4 days a week, where she incorporates turbo kick-boxing. She also enjoys spending as much of her free time with her 9 year old Rottweiler, Bacall, taking her to Red Rock and Lake Mead camping.  Sasha also enjoys hanging out with friends, and going to concerts.  Keeping Bacall company at home is Eugene, an orange male tabby, and the newest member of the club, a female kitten named Ninja.   Sasha’s mantra in life is:  “Life is too precious and short.  Love life – because in a blink of an eye it could be over”.  Something we should all give pause to.

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• Courtney

  
  

  Veterinary Technician, Courtney, is a home-grown Southwestern girl.  Born in Tucson, Arizona, she graduated Arizona State University in 2002.  After graduation she spent two years living in San Diego, where she spent most weekends at the San Diego Zoo.  In 2004 she moved to her new hometown of Las Vegas and attended the Pima Medical Institute, where she received her certification of Veterinary Assistant in 2006.   Married to attorney Brad Myers in 2007, they are pet parents to 3 rescued cats, and the unofficial mascot of Rainbow Animal Hospital, one very precious Chihuahua, Miss Nana. While Courtney is working downstairs, “Nana Bread” often spends her time visiting Jeanne and Erna in their office modeling her latest outfit, and trying to convince the Chairmen of the Board that cats drool, and dogs rule.  Jimmy and Jack most often defer to her logic, as she is usually wearing the most stunning outfit, and like most boys are easily detracted by a girl in a pretty dress, even if she is a dog!   Courtney greets each day with the satisfaction that she is doing her part in helping animals get well, and finds it gratifying and rewarding.  Each day brings new challenges and is never boring.  She is also a big advocate of looking at the shelter if you are ready to bring a new companion into your life.  That is where she found Nana, and we all agree she is a joy to have around.   Courtney’s interests, outside Veterinary Medicine, include traveling, yoga, drinking coffee, reading, and listening to music.  She has been part of our healthcare team since 2006, and we hope for many more years to come.

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• Matt

  
  

  Born and raised in Bellville, Texas, Matt came to Las Vegas after an eight year stint in the United States Marine Corps.   For the past fifteen years he has resided both here, and briefly in Arizona before joining the Rainbow Animal Hospital healthcare team as one of our very skilled veterinary assistants.  Matt is “uncle” to two Huskies, Colin & Dorsett and has two cats as well: a black and white domestic feline named Doc, and Cassie the tortishell kitty.  Growing up in Texas, Matt’s family did rehabilitation work with animals that had been seized by animal control. He saw firsthand the consequences of abusive relationships by the hand of humans toward helpless animals. Matt followed in his family’s footsteps, and decided to pursue a career in the field of veterinary medicine, and is dedicated to helping our furry friends’ live better lives.  His favorite part of veterinary medicine is seeing a patient leave the hospital healthy and whole after coming in seriously injured or ill.    Matt is an avid video-gamer, and is a charter member of “Geeks for good” – a charity that supplies underprivileged children with personal computers.  When not mastering the art of a video game, Matt also enjoys snorkeling and scuba diving.  His philosophy on life is: “Life is grand, love is real, and beauty is everywhere.” This is one “geek” that we are happy to have as a member of our healthcare team.

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• Elena

  
  

  After earning an Associates Degree at Chaminade University in Honolulu, Hawaii, Elena spent several years serving in the United States Armed Forces before moving to Las Vegas with her family.  Elena joined the Rainbow Animal Hospital health care team seven years ago and is our senior animal care provider.  She is the mother of a beautiful teenage daughter who has been in the National Junior Honor Society for the past three years.     Over the years, Elena has been known to stay up around the clock nursing abandoned kittens back to health and finding homes for any stray fuzz balls that come her way.  She has had more than her fair share of “special needs” pets of her own – including a dog who had both eyes removed and a cat who had to receive fluids every week to combat kidney failure.  Any animal residing in Elena’s home is a lucky one indeed; the dedication she has to caring for her pets is phenomenal.  Her current menagerie consists of both feathers and fur, with two cats, two cockatiels, two parakeets, and Shih Tzus Cheena and Butch ruling the roost.  Ever the animal lover – in her free time, Elena enjoys anything that can be done with her pets and her daughter at her side.

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• Toni

  
  

  Animal care provider, Toni was born in Detroit, Michigan and moved to Las Vegas when she was eleven years old.  Despite her dislike for warm weather, Toni has remained in the valley with her husband of twenty one years, and two beautiful children, affectionately nicknamed “Sissy” and “Boo.” After raising her human and numerous four-legged kids, Toni began to go a little stir crazy (lucky for us!) and decided to pursue a part-time position as an animal care provider.  Since she is a natural at taking care of any living thing, she was a perfect candidate for feeding, watering, walking, and fawning over our patients.   The members of her family that have tails (the only ones, we hope!) include Nyxie the black lab, Candycane the Papillon princess, Chico the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Tigger, a twenty one year old feline, other cats – Buster, Leo, Clyde, and Marvin, and one very long “tailed”critter…….. Trinity, the two year old corn snake. In the feathered department is "Bird" the dove. Toni has an especially close bond with Candycane.  She was a regular boarding patient at the practice Toni previously worked at, and Toni always looked forward to her visits. It was love at first sight!  In 2005, Toni’s mother, with whom she was very close, passed away.  After struggling with her mother’s passing, Toni was approached by Candycane’s owners who were moving away and could not keep her. They knew how much Candycane meant to Toni, and wanted Toni to have her.  In her heart, she feels that Candycane was a gift that was sent to help her through the most difficult time of her life.   Toni has an interest in forensics, and enjoys reading books and watching documentaries about the subject.  She also likes to study various religions and takes pleasure in reading novels by the psychic, Sylvia Brown.  Toni's favorite words to live by are: "Be the person your dog thinks you are."

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• Jimmy James , Co-Chairman

  
  

  I have decided to tell my own story, because as someone famous once said, “the truth will set you free”.  But who am I kidding?  Why would I want to give up this sweet gig I have going here.  I arrived at Rainbow Animal Hospital as a very, very, sick kitten.  I was not expected to live, and in fact was heading toward the “Rainbow Bridge” by the minute.  Through the expertise of the doctors and staff, the administration of an experimental drug, and lots of tender loving care, I pulled through.  I do recall being swaddled in one of Erna’s daughters’ old baby blankets and her carrying me around in a makeshift baby/kitten sling.  I am still seeing a therapist on a weekly basis for that experience!  Being Co-Chairman of the Board takes a lot out of me and sleep is a necessity.  When not sleeping or eating I usually make the rounds sitting in front of Dr. P, Jeanne, or Erna’s computer screen or walking across their keyboard.  Sometimes I visit Dan in his office; after all he has a refrigerator in his room.  I especially love Tuesdays when all the team members gather in my office for their so called staff meeting.  We all know they come to shower me with attention, not to discuss clinic nonsense.  Lately I’ve become a little leery of Summer.  She has taken upon the duty of being the dietary taskmaster of Jack and me.  Oh how I loved the days when Jeanne or Erna would toss me the crust of Verrazano’s pizza just to get me off their desk.  I had them trained well!  When not advising the management team (seriously, I don’t know how they get anything done without consulting me) you can usually find me enjoying the sunshine in one of the cat towers on the upstairs patio overlooking the comings and goings of our wonderful clients.  If you see me, be sure to wave, and if perhaps a pizza crust comes flying my way, I won’t turn it down….that is why I’m called the “Carbo Kitty”.

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• Just Jack , Co-Chairman

  
  

  Just Jack came to be part of our Rainbow family under tragic circumstances, but with a happy ending.  He was out for a mid-day stroll when he was confronted by a group of hooligans.  They taunted and teased him then grabbed him by his front legs and started swinging him around like a rag doll.  A Good Samaritan, or as Jack likes to refer to her, his Guardian Angel, came to his rescue.  She gave the teenage boys a good tongue lashing, and then brought him into Rainbow for emergency care. After recovering from shock and several lacerations a decision needed to be made concerning his right front leg.  The doctors at Rainbow and 2 board certified orthopedic surgeons all agreed his leg could be amputated, or left alone and used as a crutch when he walked.  He was not in pain so his leg was left attached, and he has a built in crutch.  “I don’t know why I was named Just Jack, except at the time there was a show on TV called Will and Grace, and let’s face the truth.  I do LOVE my brother from another mother, Jimmy James very much”.  When not in a management meeting, or intervening when Rock, Paper, or Scissors takes an ugly turn, he can be found visiting the staff lounge looking for a handout when Summer is not looking, or laying in the sunshine by the doctor’s desk.  Sometimes he visits Jimmy in one of the cat towers on the patio, so be sure to give a “shout-out” if you see him.  In spite of his early encounter with humans that did not go well, Just Jack is full of love, and is a joy to be part of the Rainbow team.

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