Dr. Pat graduated with a B.S. and a D.V.M. from the University of Illinois.  He moved to the southern Wisconsin area and developed a practice in northern Illinois after graduating.  His integrative practice has a local following and attracts clients from the Rockford, Milwaukee and Chicago areas.  The practice brings in clients who are seeking both well patient care and those in need of special care for chronic illness. 

The framework of his practice relies on a foundation of quality diagnostics with an integrated treatment plan that includes diet, exercise, acupuncture, herbal therapy, as well as traditional western medicine and surgery.  He is a founding member of the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture and is a member of the International Veterinary Medical Society, American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, Illinois Veterinary Medical Association, Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association, and the American Veterinary Medical Association.  At the 2010 North American Veterinary Conference, he was awarded the Midwest Veterinarian of the Year by the Morris Animal Foundation.

On a personal note he lives with his wife, three above average kids, two poorly trained dogs, one very controlling cat, and an occasional needy patient.  He enjoys canoeing, camping, kayaking, reading, and the Chicago Bears.  He has served on boards for Fellow Mortals Wildlife Rehabilitation Hospital, the local soccer club and is a member of the Lions Club.

Prior to joining the practice in 2008, Dr. Brand had years of experience working in the veterinary field. 

She graduated from Ross University and finished her clinicals at the University of Missouri.  She has a special interest in internal medicine and has additional training in ultrasound imaging.  In addition, she is pursuing certification in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine.  She lives with a very cute little boy, a husband and a full house of rescued canines and felines.

Dorah began her association with Dr. Hourigan over 25 years ago, first as a client and for over 10 years as a trusted coworker. 

She earned a B.S. degree from the University of Wisconsin at Madison so she is a dedicated Badger fan.

Prior to her arrival at RVC she managed a production facility.  She has years of experience in canine behavior and training.  This has allowed her the patience to live with three Airedales and an experienced husband.

Janel has been with us for most of her young working career.  She is currently working on her Masters in Physical Therapy Counseling and finds time to provide assistance at the reception desk as well as weekend care for boarding cats.  She provides a caring and gentle touch to her duties.

Lyn is the caring voice on the other end of the phone line.  She comes from the human medical field and was managing a doctor’s office prior to her arrival at RVC.  She is responsible for scheduling patients and organizing the office. 

She lives with a beautiful little girl and her husband along with Labrador and a kitty.

Jill has been a full time animal technician that has worked for over 18 years developing her skills.  She joined the practice in 2006 and has more energy than 3 Border collie puppies. 

She brings a spark to the practice and clearly enjoys her work.  She shares her home with her husband and 2 very spoiled cats.

Tina was a client before she joined the practice. She had experience as a nursing assistant and brings that level of compassionate care to her duties at work. She is forever taking in orphaned animals and restoring there health.

Her home is now full so she is constantly looking for homes for the animals in need. There are numerous clients and pets who have benefited from her adoptive nature. She lives with horses, dogs, cats, birds, pigs, three children and a very tolerant husband.

Julie

Julie graduated from Rockford Business College in the Veterinary Technician Program. She has taken and passed the State Board Certification licensing test and is Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT).

Prior to this she has years of experience training and caring for dogs at a local boarding and training facility. She is married and has full house of four legged friends. Animals are her life and her pets and her patients all benefit from her devotion.

Sandy

Sandy is a full time animal technician that splits her time at RVC and another facility. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our clinic. Sandy is noted and apparent due to her ever present smile and cheerful attitude. Clients and patients and doctors enjoy working with her. She lives with two adoring beagles and a human.

Bubba was considered for protection work at his first job. However, it turns out the look they were selecting for was not associated with aggressive behavior. In fact, it was latter learned that Bubba was actually smiling.

He was considered for work as a greeter at the clinic but his appearance scared the other dogs and we had to let him go. In a negotiated settlement we left him on the website. Tragically, Bubba left this world unemployed. Bubba was loved and will live on in our memories and on this website.