To deliver exceptional, progressive and compassionate veterinary care while fostering long term relationships with our valued clients. At Dogwood Veterinary Hospital, we treat your pets as if they are our own.
We take pride in delivering consistent and reliable care, holding ourselves responsible for the health and comfort of every animal we treat.
We prioritize honest communication and a transparent approach to medicine, fostering meaningful connections within our community.
We build lasting relationships by providing compassionate care and expert advice that our local pet owners can depend on.
We are committed to staying at the forefront of veterinary medicine, offering progressive treatments in line with industry best practices.
Our aim is to provide the highest quality veterinary care in a relaxed and friendly environment. Our team is composed of receptionists, veterinary assistants, veterinary technicians and of course our veterinarians. We feel our combined education allows us to have valuable insight into what makes working together as a team. Recently our hospital endeavoured to make everyone FEAR FREE certified.
Fear Free involves the concept of practicing veterinary medicine that involves the reduction of feeling of stress in our patients which in return will result in a better experience for all involved pets, owners, and the veterinary team. All employees from reception all the way to our doctors are Fear Free certificate professionals. Meaning we believe in reducing the fear, anxiety and stress from the moment we book our appointments, arrival and how we conduct our examinations and treatments. We utilize white noise machines, feline and canine specific pheromones, cage covers, strategic booking/timing arrivals, oral sedation options and much more.
Dr. Hamlund grew up in Victoria, BC. He worked a variety of jobs after high school before deciding to return to college to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. After graduating from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 2010 he returned to Vancouver Island to work as an associate veterinarian in Courtenay. Seeking a change, he did relief work all over BC before purchasing the Dogwood Veterinary Hospital in 2016.
Dr. Hamlund enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine but has developed a particular interest in endoscopy and laparoscopic surgery. When not at work he enjoys spending time with his wife and family walking their dogs on the trails, travelling and in the nicer weather, stand-up paddle boarding and riding his motorcycle.
Dr. Richelle Kendall graduated with distinction from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 2008. Upon graduation, she and her husband returned to the Island, and they have been pleased to make the North Island their home ever since.
Richelle enjoys all aspects of veterinary practice, from first puppy /kitten appointments, to managing the complex medical needs of geriatric patients. Her interests include behaviour, dermatology, dentistry, internal medicine and soft tissue surgery. She has a special interest in conducting abdominal/soft tissue ultrasound examinations.
Richelle particularly loves forming long-term relationships with clients and their pets, always striving to provide compassionate care. She has over 16 years experience as a companion animal veterinarian, having worked at various practices in Campbell River and the Comox Valley.
In her spare time, Richelle enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking and mountain biking with her husband and two sons. She can often be found exploring local trails with her Boxer Staffie cross, Shirley. When her busy schedule permits, she also enjoys reading, sketching, and snuggling with her two cats, Sylvie and Esther.
Dr. Zita Doeschner was born, raised and educated in Germany. Upon her graduation from Hannover’s University of Veterinary Medicine in 2001, Zita, along with her husband, relocated to Whitehorse. Zita and her family have called the west coast home since 2004.
Zita has a soft spot for senior pets and a special interest in end-of-life care. Zita enjoys the challenges of internal medicine and dermatology. She is known for her caring, gentle and compassionate approach to veterinary care and for meeting the individual needs of her patients. When she is not busy chauffeuring her teenagers around, Zita spends her time away from work enjoying all the delights of the outdoors; hiking, biking, backcountry camping and skiing.
Dr. Michelle Hughes grew up in Campbell River and happily returned to the island in 2017 after graduating from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon.
She settled in the Comox where she practiced for a number of years as an associate veterinarian before changing gears; spending the last few years offering relief coverage to various clinics in the Comox Valley and Campbell River. In addition to providing veterinary house-call service, providing end-of-life care for animals in their homes. It was through her relief work that Dr. Hughes was introduced to Dogwood Veterinary Hospital.
Having enjoyed the staff and clients so much she decided to become an official part of the team! Michelle brings a thoughtful and compassionate approach to her work. She loves the diverse practice that veterinary medicine offers and especially enjoys internal medicine, developing trusting relationships with clients and patients, and helping senior pets to feel their best. Outside of work, she enjoys running, hiking, yoga and exploring the island.
Erika and her husband moved to the Campbell River area from Ontario in 2013, and have adored every minute of it. In 2008, Erika graduated with distinction from the 3-year veterinary technology program offered by St. Lawrence College in Kingston, Ontario.
Since her graduation, Erika has worked in small animal, mixed animal and emergency medicine. Erika’s passion for animal care and her strong belief in the human-animal bond led her to be involved in various aspects of animal care. While she loves the day-to-day role of being a RVT in veterinary medicine, she has also developed a passion for practice management. Erika thoroughly enjoys ensuring that the DVH team and hospital are constantly evolving to meet the needs of our patients and clients.
Sarah has lived in Campbell River since 1986. Sarah began her career in the veterinary field shortly after in 1988. Sarah then spent the next 21 years in the veterinary field, beginning as kennel assistance, then a veterinary receptionist and finally moving on to become the veterinary hospital office manager.
Sarah changed careers from working in the veterinary field to become a small business owner in Campbell River, and then worked as a receptionist/manager at a local spa before coming full circle to her true passion and calling in life, joining the Dogwood Veterinary Hospital.
Sarah has owned a vast array of different species as her pets; from reptiles, birds, chickens, pocket pets, cats, dogs and horses to name a few. Currently, Sarah has 4 dogs, Emerson, Berry, Ducky and Popcorn. Sarah also has several aquariums which are home to a large variety of saltwater and freshwater fish.
Jennifer has been a RVT for over 20 years. She graduated from Fairview College in Alberta in the early 2000’s. Jennifer began her career working in large animal medicine. She has gained an array of diverse skills from pivoting her focus on exotics to companion animals. It is through this evolution that she has developed her career passions; geriatrics, physiotherapy and dentistry. Jenn has lived and worked in Campbell River for the past 12 years.
Outside of work she dedicates her time to her rescue; See Spot Smile Dalmatian Rescue. Her rescue aids in re-homing, fostering and providing invaluable education and support for Dalmatians nationwide.
Jennifer has two Dalmatians with whom she regularly participates in dog sporting events such as; agility, tracking, and obedience. Her dogs also enjoy paddleboarding, hiking and running alongside the bike.
Jordyn grew up on Quadra Island where she looked after everything from donkeys to chickens on her family’s hobby farm. This is where she first realized her passion for veterinary medicine. Jordyn graduated from Thompson Rivers University in 2017 and immediately passed the national licensing examination to become a Registered Veterinary Technician. She began her career working in small animal medicine in both a private practice and shelter setting. Jordyn is thrilled to be working again in companion animal care as she loves the variety of pets and their people that she meets at the clinic.
When not at work Jordyn can be found hiking with her Border Collie Kit, reading or playing the guitar.
Maggi always knew she wanted to have a career working with animals but it was after she volunteered with a local veterinary clinic that she decided on becoming a veterinary technician. A Campbell Riverite through and through, Maggi has always called Campbell River home, having only moved once, in 2013 to Kamloops to attend Thompson Rivers University’s Veterinary Technician course. After graduation, she quickly made plans to return to the island. Since then, Maggie has been working in small animal medicine.
When not working Maggi spends her time sticking close to home, playing video games, watching movies, reading and painting as well as appreciating the splendors of Campbell River with her dog Kiki, who thoroughly enjoys walks at the spit!
Tara grew up in Campbell River and relocated to Victoria after completing her schooling. She was there for over 20 years, first in general practice and then at a surgical referral hospital. She has now come back home and is loving being back. She is looking forward to rediscovering all the local gems and finding new ones. Pictured is her adored cat, Ollie, who found his way to her via the SPCA after being found hit by a car and in need of extensive surgery.
Nikki was born and raised in Toronto but drove West to Campbell River with her husband, their two children, and pets in the Summer of 2014. Nikki has had a love for animals from an early age and decided that working with animals was going to be her career. Fittingly, she has been a veterinary technician for the past 25 years.
Her full household of fur babies includes 2 dogs (Hank and Stu), 3 cats (Mabel, Liam and Sawyer), and two guinea pigs named Norm and Cliff. Even with her hands full, Nikki is always ready to go on an adventure and explore what the island has to offer. She has a passion for healthy living, and loves to put on her running shoes and train for her next race.
Raya was born and raised on Vancouver Island. She has had a deep love for animals since she was a little girl, so it comes as no surprise that she pursued a career in animal care. Her love, care and compassion for animals has only grown stronger each year since she started her career in the veterinary field in 2008. With years of experience behind her, you can be sure she will treat your fur baby with the utmost care.
Raya loves the outdoors and spends much of her time in Vancouver Island’s beautiful wilderness; camping, hiking and fishing with her husband, son and silver labrador Gauge. She also has two precious senior cats, Quido and Nala.
Amy-Jane has always called Campbell River home. She grew up loving animals, having family pets and forming friendships with her neighbours farm animals. Because of this it was natural for her to grow up wanting to work in the animal field. Amy-Jane started out as a receptionist at Dogwood and took additional training to become one of our veterinary assistants. She is working towards fulfilling her long term goal of becoming a registered veterinary technician.
Amy-Jane spends her time away from work appreciating early morning walks with her dog Tucker. Amy-Jane also has two cats, Moe-Moe and Muffin, who love to cuddle while she’s at home reading or playing the piano.
Laura started her adventure in the Veterinary field in Campbell River in 2009 when she obtained her “Animal Care Aide Certificate” through North Island College. In 2015, she got her Low Stress Handling Silver Certificate through Dr Sophia Yin. Laura is passionate about animal behaviour and strives to create a low stress atmosphere for all of our patients. An animal lover of all kinds, she and her 3 children share their life with a variety of barnyard critters as well as a handful of dogs, cats and pocket pets.
Starting early in her endeavors Mckenzie volunteered at a veterinary clinic during high school. There she developed a fondness for the animal care industry. She then pursued and obtained employment in Victoria as a veterinary assistant. McKenzie is currently enrolled in the Thompson River University Veterinary Technology Diploma program to become a registered veterinary technician while working at Dogwood. Having grown up in Mill Bay, living in Victoria and recently relocating to Quadra Island, McKenzie is well versed in the outdoor enjoyments our beautiful area has to offer. When not working McKenzie fills her days with doggie hikes, gardening and camping.
Rebecca started working within the veterinary field in 2020, after completing the Animal Care Aide course offered at NIC. While she has not always been sure of which career path she wanted to follow; Rebecca has decided that becoming a veterinary technician is her ultimate goal. Together with DVH she will endeavor to obtain her training via distance education. Rebecca’s family includes her daughter Piper, dog Minerva and her cat Phoebe. Rebecca was born in Campbell River and after a few years out of province returned home to the island. Rebecca is passionate about animal nursing and ensures every patient is cared for like she would her own. Rebecca spends her time outside of work with her daughter, reading and collecting books and ensuring her active pup gets all the playtime she needs!
Tessa brings 5 years of veterinary medicine experience to the DVH team. Tessa was born and raised in our beautiful city and doesn’t have any immediate plans to move anywhere else. Currently, she is our veterinary assistant extraordinaire! However, her 5-year plan includes attending TRU’s Veterinary Technologist Diploma program. She shares her home with her fur babies; an Aussie x Border Collie named Atlas and a kitty named Ripley. Time outside of work is spent engaging in relaxing and therapeutic activities like knitting and paddle boarding.
Jessie and her family moved to Campbell River early 2022 from the Okanagan. After taking the summer to explore all the delights of the island, taking time to settle into their new home and the kids into their new schools, Jessie found herself looking into getting back into the workforce. With her past experience in hospital administration and a history of fostering puppies for the BCSPCA Jessie knew she wanted to find employment that would encompass both. When Jessie is not at work keeping the appointments on schedule, she keeps herself busy by refinishing furniture, spending time with her two huskies on the sea walk, and doing puzzles with her family. When the sun is out so is she; kayaking and paddle boarding the beautiful waters surrounding Campbell River.
Mackenna is no stranger to the veterinary industry and the ins and outs of a veterinary hospital. She is a second-generation veterinary receptionist and was born and raised in Campbell River. When she is not at work providing exceptional customer service to the clients of DVH, she spends her time enjoying walks with her family and playing video games while her 3 cats cheer her on!
Taylor grew up in Cochrane, AB, where her love for animals began while riding horses and caring for all kinds of creatures. Her passion for animal care led her to pursue a Veterinary Medical Receptionist diploma at Olds College in Fairview, AB. After completing her studies, she worked in the veterinary field for three years, gaining valuable experience before making the exciting move to Vancouver Island with her loyal dachshund, Chester.
Now based on the island, Taylor enjoys exploring her new surroundings and discovering all the beauty it has to offer. When she’s not working, you can often find her relaxing with a good book. Taylor’s love for animals and dedication to providing top-notch care make her a welcoming and compassionate part of our team.
Vicki has been in the veterinary field since 1994, having started her career with DVH before moving to a neighbouring clinic that she managed for 27 years. Vicki enthusiastically embraces opportunities to expand her veterinary knowledge, attending continuing education courses whenever she can. Born and raised in Campbell River, Vicki graduated with a bachelor of science in geography from the University of Victoria. She shares her home with her husband, Dan and three cats, Pinto, Quinn and Simon. When she’s not at the clinic, Vicki enjoys spending time with her family, dining out, visiting the casino and traveling.