Kalynn Koza
What is your educational and work background?
I completed my undergraduate degree from Kansas State University in Sociology and International Studies in 2008. I graduated from the University of Illinois in 2015 with a doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. Since graduating, I have been practicing in the small animal hospital setting seeing dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, and guinea pigs.
What made you decide to become a vet?
Like many others, it was my childhood dream to become a veterinarian; as I matured, I discovered it perfectly merges my love for animals and my passion for science.
Why did you decide to join the Companion team?
Companion’s mission statement mirrors my belief to practice high quality medicine with a compassionate team.
What is the best thing about being a vet?
I love seeing my patient back after the treatments I have instituted and watching how happy both the pets and owners are at the progress they have made. It makes me feel as though I am truly making a difference in this world.
What is one of the most common problems you’ve encountered in pets you treat?
Dental disease. It surprises many owners to learn how quickly our pets teeth can decay and how a little home care can go a long way in preventing infection and pain.
Do you have any special interests in vet medicine?
Soft tissue surgery, internal medicine, and exotic small mammal medicine (rabbit, rodent, & guinea pig)
What is the most unusual pet you have helped treat?
Kinkajou
What are some of your favorite activities outside of work?
Spending time with my family, learning new crafts (stained glass, knitting, Cricut projects, etc), exploring the nearby forest preserves
What is your biggest pet peeve?
When someone takes the last of something and doesn’t refill it
Favorite place to eat?
Portillo’s
Favorite place to visit?
Glacier National Park
Favorite movie?
Star Wars: A New Hope
What are your favorite sports teams?
Hogwarts Gryffindor Quidditch Team
Name 3 things people might be surprised to learn about you:
- I love cult classic films
- I have been skydiving
- My favorite patients to treat are guinea pigs
