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Your Partners In Pet Health

At Waterloo West Animal Hospital, we would be honoured to partner with you in helping your furry, feathered, or scale-covered companion live a truly amazing life.

From wellness care to surgical services and everything in between, we care for your pets as if they were our own. We work with you to keep your pets happy & healthy.

Our TeamOur Services

Meet Our Amazing Team

We are a group of passionate animal lovers who are thankful for the opportunity to take care of your pets. Always professional, we strive to give you and your pet the best veterinary care possible.

If you think you would be a great fit as part of our team, send us your resume to: info@waterloowest.com

Our Veterinarians

Dr. Tahir Mahboob, DVM, MSC

Practice Owner, Veterinarian

Dr. Tahir Mahboob graduated with distinction from Veterinary College in 1994. He received a Masters Degree in Veterinary Microbiology in 1996. While doing his Masters, he had three research articles published in International Journals of Veterinary Medicine.
Following graduation, he served as a Veterinary Officer with the Government of Pakistan. After gaining valuable experience with them, he later managed his own practice for a few years.
In 2005, Dr. Mahboob moved to Canada and became licensed by the CVO. He worked in multiple clinics around the Greater Toronto Area and in Florida. In 2010, he decided to plant his roots in beautiful Waterloo.
Dr. Mahboob loves his job! He is dedicated to modern veterinary medicine by keeping up to date with continued education. Dr. Mahboob sees small animals as well as exotic pets. He especially loves orthopedic surgery. He holds certification in cruciate repair and patellar luxation.
In his spare time, Dr. Mahboob enjoys spending time with his wife, two daughters and son, and their cat Taps

Dr. Padmini Makkapati, DVM

Practice Owner, Veterinarian

Dr. Makkapati is a dedicated small animal veterinarian who has been practicing for nearly two decades since obtaining her license in 2005. Her commitment to providing excellent care is evident in her ongoing efforts to stay current with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Makkapati believes in utilizing all available resources to provide comprehensive care for pets. Her approach involves employing advanced diagnostic tools to accurately assess animal health, offering a wide range of treatment options, from traditional to innovative therapies, tailoring care plans to the individual needs of each pet.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Dr. Makkapati lives with her husband, two daughters and a playful golden doodle named Maple as part of their family.

Apart from working and her family life, her hobbies include cooking, travelling and gardening and enjoys long walks with her puppy.

Dr. Reuben Ong, DVM

Veterinarian

Dr. Reuben was born and raised in Malaysia. He came to Canada in 2008 to attend the University of Guelph, where he graduated in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biomedical Science. Following this, Dr. Reuben was accepted into the Ontario Veterinary College in 2013, where he earned his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2017!
Dr. Reuben enjoys the various aspects of veterinary medicine, particularly the surgical side of the profession, as well as educating owners on how to keep their beloved pets healthy and happy.
Reuben shares his home with a cat that goes by the name of “Pocky”. When he is not busy working at the clinic, you can usually find him watching movies and TV shows or singing. He also enjoys visiting local restaurants and coffee shops around Kitchener and Waterloo with his partner.

Dr. Rama Veluvolu, DVM

Veterinarian

Dr. Rama joined the Waterloo West team in March of 2022 as an associate veterinarian!
Dr. Rama grew up in the lush countryside of India, where his family is involved in livestock & cash crop farming. He his obtained his veterinary medicine license in India and worked as a locum veterinarian in a mixed animal practice before moving to Canada in 2016.
Dr. Rama completed his post grad studies from the Memorial University of Newfoundland. Since obtaining his CVO license, he has been working at WWAH, which has been a rewarding experience!
One of the things he loves most about working in clinic is working with our compassionate team that help provide gold standard care to the urgent cases that come through our doors. Dr. Rama has a special interest in internal medicine & radiology interpretation. As much as Rama loves to be in general practice, he hopes to expand his skills and pursue a residency in veterinary radiology & explore applications of AI in this field.
Outside of the clinic, Rama enjoys travelling with his wife, spending time with his family & friends, reading and learning how to skate over the last 4 years!

Dr. Hardik Patel, DVM

Veterinarian

Dr. David Costello, DVM

Veterinarian

For as long as I can remember, animals have been an important part of my life. Like many people, I have been blessed with some amazing pets over the years. It comes from this that I appreciate the very strong relationship and bond one can have with these wonderful creatures.
I graduated with a background in medical microbiology, and as Doctor of Veterinary medicine. I have been working with Waterloo West Animal Hospital for many years. In the early years I have also worked in the local veterinary emergency hospital which has helped hone my skills of critical care, and gaining experience in what clients and veterinarians go through during a crisis.
Over the years I have met many wonderful people and their pets. Although I look after the health of thousands of people’s pets, I strive to treat each person and their pets as individuals. Getting to know the owners and their pets has been part of my mandate and is just good medicine.
I spend countless hours (actually counted, lol) on continuing education to keep me up to date with advancing medicine and to hone my skills.
My hope is that through my knowledge and experience, I can help pet owners ensure that their animals live long and healthy lives as loved members of their family.

Dr. Tara Arabi, DVM

Veterinarian

Dr. Targol (Tara) Arabi completed her veterinary degree at Tehran University, Iran in 2005. After this, she moved to Canada in 2016 and was accepted into the Veterinary Skills Training and Enhancement Program through the Ontario Veterinary College!
A few years later, she obtained her license to practice veterinary medicine in Ontario in 2018.
Dr. Tara has practiced at several clinics in urgent care and high volume spay and neuter. She joined the Waterloo West team in February of 2022 as a veterinarian.
She currently lives in Waterloo with her husband, their son and their Standard Poodle. When Dr. Tara is not busy at work, she enjoys working out and reading.

Dr. Julianna Sacco, DVM

Veterinarian

Her journey working with animals began in high school as a dog groomer. She had always known her dream was to practice veterinary medicine, so she was thrilled to be accepted to the University of Guelph for Animal Biology. During her undergraduate studies, she spent her free time working as a vet assistant by day and milking cattle by night.
In 2022, she was honoured to graduate from the Ontario Veterinary College with distinction.
Julianna loves all things veterinary, keeping up with the latest evidence-based medicine through continuing education. She enjoys working with clients as a team and taking s a collaborative approach to patient care. Her special interests include emergency and critical care, internal medicine and enhancing the human animal bond.
When she is not at work, she is usually powerlifting or spending time with her zoo of animals. She has 2 cats, Fred and George, a lionhead lop rabbit named Gregory, a 28-year-old African Grey Parrot named Buddy, and Lupin, her crazy Doberman.

Our Management

Leonard

Clinic Cat/True Manager

Say hello to Leonard, the heart and soul of our clinic, and true manager! With a charming blend of warmth, curiosity, and some of mischief, Leonard has been a beloved fixture in our clinic since 2022. Known for his soft purrs and headbutts, he has a special talent for brightening everyone's day. His favorite pastimes include lounging in sunny spots, chasing spring toys, and ensuring that all staff members are adequately spoiled with his affectionate nudges.

Leonard has truly made a mark on our team, and while he's thoroughly enjoying his time here, he's also open to finding a new forever home with the right family. He’s looking to spend the rest of his senior years in a loving, quiet environment where he can continue to share his purrs and cuddles as the only pet in the house. If you have a cozy spot in your home and a warm heart, Leonard might just be the perfect addition to your family!

Madilynn

Practice Manager

Madilynn joined the Waterloo West team in June of 2024 as their Hospital Manager
Madilynn has been a Practice Manager since 2022 but has been working in the veterinary industry since 2012! She has worked in general practice as well as emergency and critical care. She can’t decide what one she loves more! Madilynn has a keen interest in fear-free practice and preventative care. She has been level 3 fear free certified since 2019! Aside from her hands-on skills, she is hoping to help guide the team at Waterloo West in ensuring that gold standard medicine is practiced for all our patients.
Madilynn is a graduate of Conestoga College with a diploma in human anatomy and physiology. She is also a graduate of Olds College with a diploma in Veterinary Practice Management. Madilynn is a strong supporter of continuing education and believes that there is always room for improvement as the veterinary world is always evolving!
Madilynn shares her home with 2 mischievous cats, Ace and Luna. While these 2 at home sure keep her busy but in her spare time she enjoys reading, walking, spending time with her family and friends, or visiting nurseries to see what plant she can take home next!

Our Veterinary Technicians

Marisa

Registered Veterinary Technician

Marisa started in May of 2020 as a Veterinary Technician! She worked with us for a year before moving into a part-time position! Before this, she enrolled and graduated from the Veterinary Technician through St. Clair’s College and obtained her registered status the same year of graduation.
In the clinic, Marisa loves to see the exotic patients that come to see us. Aside from this, she has an interest in radiology and ensuring that every x-ray she takes is perfect!
At home, she has her own small farm of animals that keep her busy! She has 2 dogs, 1 cat, chickens, a bunny, and a Myers parrot! When not busy at work, you can catch her gardening, reading or bringing her dogs on a hike.

Anna

Veterinary Technician

Anna joined the team at Waterloo West in September of 2020. Since joining us, she has moved into the role of our lead morning technician!
Anna originally grew up in Austria and moved to Canada to finish high school here. After high school, Anna went to the University of Guelph and graduated with a bachelor's degree in Bio Sciences. After this, she went back to Europe and completed an accelerated program to become a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Post graduation, Anna worked as a DVM in Austria for a year. In 2020, Anna decided to move back to Canada. She has been working with WWAH as a technician while she works on getting her Canadian DVM license!
In clinic, Anna is our lead morning technician, but also our lead surgery technician! Her favourite things to do are monitoring pets while under anesthesia, caring for hospitalized patients, and gaining hands-on new learning experiences.
Anna shares her home with her rescue German Shepherd mix from Mexico named Django! When not at work, you can catch Anna rock climbing, hiking or camping!

Justin

Veterinary Technician

Justin joined the team here at Waterloo West in 2014 as a veterinary technician! Before this, he went to school and graduated in 2012 from the technician program through the University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus!
In the clinic, Justin’s favourite patients to work with are our exotic patients, along with the occasional wildlife that we get to see!
At home, Justin shares is space with 2 dogs, a Beagle and a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, as well as 3 cats! 1 domestic short hair, and 2 Devon Rex’s. When not at work, he enjoys hiking with his family and keeping up with his photography skills.

Guillermo

Veterinary Technician

Guillermo joined our team in June of 2024 as a Technician! Before coming to Canada, Guillermo was born and raised in Mexico and worked as a veterinarian there for 7 years! He spent most of his years as a veterinarian working in immunology and neuroinflammation research but also spent 2 years working in general practice and surgery.
Currently, Guillermo is working on getting into veterinary school here and pursue the dream of becoming a licensed veterinarian in Canada!
Currently, he has 1 cat at home who goes by the name of Xolotliltzen. When he is not working or studying, you can find Guillermo at the gym, gardening, playing video games, or keeping up with his hydroponics at home.

Samm

Veterinary Technician

Samm joined the team at WWAH in August of 2024 as a Veterinary Technician! Samm is originally from London, Ontario and went to tech school through Northern College. Samm is a recent grad! Samm did a schooling placement at a small animal/exotic clinic and fell in love with exotic care, hence the interest to join the WWAH team!
Samm is newer to working in clinic since graduating but loves to learn new things! Samm enjoys getting to meet breeds and species that come into the clinic. Sam also enjoys getting to work with all the diagnostic equipment and think that’s it interesting that we can get a glimpse into how animals’ bodies work with the equipment we have.
Eventually, Samm would like to bring technician skills into marine animal conversation. At home, Samm has a Husky + 2 cats! When not working, Samm enjoys reading and creative writing.

Tereziia

Veterinary Technician

Tereziia discovered the WWAH team in July 2024. She recently comes to us from Ukraine!
We are thrilled to have Tereziia on our team as she had such an extensive background. Before coming to Canada, she was head of the clinic at Eco Centr Lokes and head of the department of therapy named after professor P. Lokes (her father!) both in Poltava, Ukraine.
In 2012, she received her complete higher education specializing in veterinary medicine and obtained her qualifications to become a veterinary doctor, in 2013 she finished her Masters of Science in veterinary medicine, in 2015 she obtained her PHD in specialty diagnostics and therapeutics of animals, and finally in 2020, she obtained her certificate of associate professor!
Tereziia enjoys the atmosphere of being in a clinic specifically, she enjoys the warmth amongst our team. She can appreciate their professionalism and dedication to a common goal: helping the animals!
Tereziia is working on becoming a licensed veterinarian here in Canada, while she does this, she is also working to deepen her knowledge in the diagnostics and treatment of exotic animals and birds. At home, she shares her space with 1 dog, 1 cat, 2 parrots, 1 bearded dragon and a fish! When not working, she enjoys hiking, martial arts and reading.

Our Veterinary Assistants

Oni

Veterinary Assistant

Oni joined the team at Waterloo West in June of 2023 as a Veterinary Assistant.
Originally, Oni spend most of his life in Nigeria and worked as a veterinarian in his home country for 12 years before relocating to Canada. Oni worked as a clinic assistant in a few clinics before he joined the team at Waterloo West.
In clinic, Oni loves helping pet owners understand that their pets are in good hands under our professional care. He loves to see the smile on their face along with the appreciation they show to us after a successful case and their pet is going home happy and healthy. He finds this has a big impact on our team.
Currently he studying to write his Canadian veterinary licensing exam to practice in Canada. He hopes to open his own practice one day!
Right now, Oni does not have any pets at home, but he is planning to add one to his family very soon! In his spare time, he enjoys watching football, hiking, and going on adventures to visit new places.

Cassandra

Veterinary Assistant

Cassandra joined our team in June of 2023 as a Veterinary Assistant. Before joining our team, Cassandra attended Animal Behavior College and graduated from the Veterinary Assistant course.
In clinic, she loves the never-ending learning! There is always something to learn and expand her knowledge. Her favourite type of patient to help with is all the reptiles! Cassandra hopes to attend Technician school soon so she can continue her education.
Cassandra shares her home with 1 dog, 1 cat, 2 bunnies and a leopard gecko! When at home and not at work, she enjoys catching a quick cat nap, reading or spending some time outdoors!

Selina

Veterinary Assistant

Hi, I’m Selina, and I’ve been a part of the team at Waterloo West Animal Hospital since November 2023. I started here right after finishing my CO-OP for the Veterinary Assistant program at Seneca College, and I’m thrilled to be working with such a dedicated team, wonderful clients, and amazing patients.
I absolutely love my role as both a vet assistant and receptionist. What I enjoy most about my job is getting to know our patients and their unique stories. It’s incredibly rewarding to learn about their lives at home, hear funny anecdotes, see pictures, and understand their quirky behaviors and individual personalities. It’s clear how much love and care their owners have for them, and being part of that process is truly fulfilling.
My time here has inspired me to continue my education and pursue a career as a Veterinary Technician. I’m currently working towards my diploma at Seneca College, with plans to specialize in Emergency Veterinary Medicine. My long-term goal is to become a veterinarian, and I’m excited about the journey ahead.
At home, I’m kept busy by my adorable one-year-old Pomeranian-Yorkie mix, Harley. I like to call her my “little race car” because she’s always zipping around and keeping me on my toes.
When I’m not working or studying, I love to unwind by painting, jamming out to music, and going to concerts. I also enjoy spending time with friends and family, and I find gardening to be a great way to relax.
I’m passionate about veterinary care and look forward to growing in this field and making a difference in the lives of animals and their owners!

Parth

Veterinary Assistant

Parth joined the team at Waterloo West in October of 2023 as a Veterinary Assistant.
As a Veterinary Assistant, he brings over four years of experience in large animal care from India. He holds a veterinary degree in India and is currently preparing for the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE), aiming to become a licensed veterinarian in Canada.
At our clinic, he is passionate about assisting with patient care and surgical procedures, ensuring every pet receives the best possible attention. His journey in veterinary medicine is fueled by a deep love for animals and a commitment to continuous learning!
At home, Parth does not have any pets but may think about it in the future. When he is not at the clinic, you’ll likely find him playing table tennis—a sport that keeps him active, sharp, and ready for the next challenge!

Belle

Veterinary Assistant

Belle is a veterinary assistant who joined Waterloo West in July of 2022. Belle completed most of her studies in French in her hometown of Sudbury. She moved to Guelph in 2021 where she graduated from the University of Guelph with a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences. Belle is currently working hard to gain entrance into OVC in the hopes of one day becoming a veterinarian.
In the clinic, Belle enjoys learning anything and everything she can (specifically clinical skills) as well as educating clients on a variety of subjects, especially dog behavior. She also loves to teach other team members and is always happy to have a good laugh.
Outside of work, you can find Belle at a dairy barn milking cows or out on an adventure with her best friend, Buck the Bernese Mountain Dog. If she is not out and about or at a hockey rink, you can always catch her taking a quick nap with her 5 cats!

Tania

Veterinary Assistant

Tania started at WWAH in October of 2021 as a Veterinary Assistant! She studied Animal Biology at the University of Guelph and received her Bachelor of Science Degree in 2021. Currently, she is completing the Veterinary Technician Program at Sheridan College and hopes to become a registered tech by the end of 2024.
In clinic, she is most passionate about emergency and critical care, senior patient palliative care, and a fear free approach to veterinary medicine!
At home, Tania has a cat named Salem, who is now a senior and simultaneously her baby boy; and a beautiful ball python named Linguini.
Outside of work she will spend as much time as she can being creative through various crafts and art projects.

Vedya

Veterinary Assistant

Vedya started at Waterloo West as a Veterinary Assistant back in 2021. Vedya found herself gaining an interest in Veterinary Medicine when she started fostering cats and volunteering with a wildlife rescue. What made her move into general practice was the human-animal bond that occurs as clients come to us with their pets.
In clinic, she enjoys educating our clients on how to help their pets, as well as the animals in our environment. Ultimately, she wants to make a difference in improving our patient’s quality of life as they come into the hospital. Aside from all of this, Vedya’s favourite type of pets to see are our exotic patients!
At home, Vedya shares her space with a sweet cat that goes by the name of Mkali.

Andrew

Clinic Assistant

Andrew started with Waterloo West in January of 2024 as a clinic assistant! Andrew was introduced to us as a co-op student placement through his high school.
Some things he loves the most about being in clinic are his co-workers and seeing the wide array of animals that come to see us! Andrew plans to go to school to be a Veterinary Technician for post-secondary.
At home, Andrew has a dog that goes by the name Sammy, a cat named Raggedy Ann and two rabbits named Moon & Lily! Outside of work, Andrew enjoys video gaming and Osteology.

Kaitlyn

Veterinary Assistant

Kaitlyn joined the WWAH team in August of 2024 as a veterinary assistant! Before coming to us, she had a background in working with large animals and some experience working in other general practices. She has a passion to be around dogs and horses! The best of both worlds.
A few things that Kaitlyn enjoys about working in the clinic are seeing the worst cases turn into the best ones. We get regular opportunities to help animals that are in a crisis, and we can help them so they can return home to their families. Kaitlyn finds a great sense of accomplishment when involved in these cases! She is also passionate about the wellbeing and welfare of animals.
Kaitlyn is hoping to expand her education and go to tech school soon. When not working towards this goal, she is a full-time mom and spending some quality time with her son, and fur-babies! She has 2 dogs, Millie the Beagle and Oakley the Bernese Mountain dog who are accompanied by her cat, Jorgia. On her spare time, you can catch her at the barn riding horses, milking cows, playing rugby and baseball, or relaxing at her cottage.

Jessica

Veterinary Assistant

Jessica started at Waterloo West in February of 2022 as a Veterinary Assistant! Right now, she is in her last year of Veterinary Technician school through Sheridan College.
Jess has been working in a clinic setting for the last 5 years and plans to stay, as she hopes to move into a technician role after graduating. Upon graduation, her studying will not end as she plans to take her VTNE and become a registered veterinary technician.
The thing she loves most about being in clinic is the element of surprise! Every day is different, and each pet is unique in their own way. Jessica particularly likes to see our exotic patients!
At home, Jess has 3 dogs (Mocha, Rex, and Nala) along with 3 cats (Mira, Mercury, and Lucifer)!
When not at work, Jess enjoys her new role of being a mom at home to her baby girl, as well as playing hockey. Jess grew up playing hockey and has kept up with the sport for the last 25 years.

Our Veterinary Receptionists

Eileen

Receptionist

Eileen joined the team at Waterloo West in July of 2022 as a receptionist! Before this, she has 15 previous years’ experience working in the animal field.
Eileen moved to Canada in March of 2022 from a smalltown, just outside of Philadelphia, after marrying her husband! Eileen started her journey in the animal field by working for a non-profit spay/neuter shelter. After this, she gained some experience working in general practices, as well as emergency hospitals.
Since joining WWAH, Eileen has loved meeting new clients and ensuring them that WWAH is the best place for care. She also enjoys building friendships and connections with our existing clients. Eileen is a familiar face during our evening/night shifts. Aside from all of this, Eileen has a special place in her heart for all her co-workers and building a relationship with them.
Currently, she does not have any pets at home, but she is a proud Aunt to her neighbours dog, “Walnut” that she and her husband babysit every week. Her previous dog, Murray passed over the rainbow bridge two years ago. Outside of work, Eileen loves to travel around Ontario with her husband. She also loves to go to baseball & football games, especially when the Philadelphia teams are playing, the Phillies & Eagles!

Melissa

Receptionist

Melissa joined our team as a receptionist in March of 2010 (over 20 years ago!!) and has been a wonderful piece to our puzzle here at Waterloo West.
Melissa took a Veterinary Administration program through Ridgetown College and joined the Waterloo West Team. Melissa is the ‘OG’ of WWAH as she was at the clinic before Dr. Makkapati + Dr. Mahboob took over the ownership.
Melissa’s favourite thing about working in veterinary medicine is the problem solving and seeing the different animals that come our way… and of course, puppy/kitten snuggles!
At home, Melissa has 2 cats, Asher and Patron, who are accompanied by 2 dogs, Si and Nova! In her spare time you will catch her relaxing at the trailer, and spending time with her family and friends.

Ronayne

Receptionist

Ronayne started with Waterloo West in January of 2023 as a receptionist! Ronayne joined our team simply for the love of animals! While she works in human health care full time, she gets her animal fix with us part time! She is a compassionate and empathic person while managing the doctor’s office & helping humans, she is also able to help animals and end up getting the best of both worlds.

At home, she shares her space with Edie & Tulip, her two boarder collie mixes. When not at work, Ronayne enjoys reading, relaxing and hiking with her pups!

Steph

Receptionist

Steph joined our team as a receptionist in February of 2022.
Steph went to Sheridan College and studied Animal Care. Post schooling, she worked at the Toronto Humane Society for 1 year. Otherwise, she has been working in the animal industry for over 15 years!
In clinic, she enjoys seeing all the different type of animals that come through our doors and making a difference in their quality of life. Steph enjoys her position as a receptionist and wants to grow within her role at Waterloo West.
She shares her home with 2 cats that go by Dani and Sheri, but it doesn’t stop there! She also has 2 Guinea Pigs named Chester and Cappy, and a fish! While these critters keep her busy, in her spare time she enjoys spending quality time with her family.

Isabelle

Receptionist

Isabelle, also known as Belly, joined our team in August of 2024 as a Receptionist!
Belly is currently a student at Wilfrid Laurier and is pursuing a degree in science. She has been working in clinics since she was 16 and has never left! Belly enjoys being at the front desk in a clinic setting and sharing some smiles with our clients.
Other than sharing some smiles with clients, she enjoys speaking with them and building a special bond. Belly also likes to share her love with the animals (especially cats!) whenever she gets the chance.
Belly’s future plans involve her becoming a veterinarian and working with exotic zoo animals. She loves learning and teaching what she knows. She believes that there is always an opportunity to share some wisdom.
At home she has 2 cats that go by Turbo and Astro. While they fill most of her time, she also enjoys singing and video gaming.

Our Grooming

Shelly

Dog Groomer

Shelly is the dog groomer here at Waterloo West! She joined our team in February of 2022. Shelly has 10+ years of experience working in the grooming industry.
Some of her favourite things about being able to pursue her passion within a veterinary clinic are seeing all the different types of animals that come to see us and learning new things above grooming. Although this helps keep her day-to-day life interesting, she is also passionate about taking the time with your pet to promote a safe & healthy grooming environment. This means allowing breaks when needed and being able to identify the signs of stress and knowing how to help.
At home, Shelly shares her space with a 13-year-old lab mix! Outside of work, Shelly enjoys golfing, reading, biking, and watching football & hockey!