Understanding and Managing Laminitis in Horses Laminitis. It’s a word that no horse owner ever wants to hear. This painful hoof condition can come on suddenly, and if not managed properly, it can have devastating consequences. But with the right knowledge and a solid prevention plan, you can help protect your horse from this potentially [...]
Why Pre-Breeding Exams Matter Breeding your mare is an exciting journey, but success involves more than just selecting the right stallion. A pre-breeding soundness exam (PBSE) helps ensure she is in peak reproductive health, improving her chances of conception and a successful pregnancy. Skipping this step can lead to failed pregnancies, unexpected veterinary costs, and [...]
Understanding Urinary Tract Infections in Pets: Signs, Treatment, and Prevention Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are a common yet serious health issue in pets that can cause significant discomfort and lead to more severe complications if left untreated. Recognizing early signs, understanding treatment options, and implementing preventative measures are key to keeping your pet healthy. At [...]
Dental Health Month: Why Dental Cleanings Matter for Pets February is National Pet Dental Health Month, a perfect reminder that oral health is essential to overall well-being. Many pet owners don’t realize that dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs and cats, affecting up to 80% of pets by age [...]
The Importance of Floating Teeth in Horses: Why Regular Dental Care Matters Horses rely on their teeth for proper digestion, nutrition, and overall well-being. However, unlike human teeth, horse teeth continue to grow throughout their lives, making regular dental maintenance essential. One of the most important aspects of equine dental care is floating—the process of [...]
Equine Prepurchase Exams: What Horse Buyers Need to Know Purchasing a horse is an exciting and significant investment, whether you're looking for a performance horse, trail companion, or breeding prospect. However, before finalizing your decision, one of the most crucial steps is a prepurchase exam (PPE)—a thorough veterinary evaluation to assess the horse’s health, soundness, [...]
Pet Obesity Awareness and Management Strategies Pet obesity is one of the most common yet preventable health issues affecting dogs and cats today. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, an estimated 59% of cats and 55% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese. While a few extra pounds may not seem [...]
Lewiston Vets' Approach to Compassionate End-of-Life Care Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most difficult decisions a pet owner will ever face. Pets are family, and when they reach their senior years or are diagnosed with a terminal illness, their care needs change. How do you know when it’s time? How [...]
Keeping Pets Safe During Holidays The holiday season brings joy and celebration to many families. However, amidst the excitement, it's essential to ensure the safety of all household members — including our beloved pets. During festive times, pets face numerous hazards that can easily be overlooked in the hustle and bustle. At Lewiston Veterinary Clinic, [...]
As the leaves turn and the days shorten in Lewiston, ID, the approach of winter brings challenges not only for us but for our animals too. Preparing for colder months is essential to ensure the health and safety of both pets and livestock. Hypothermia and frostbite are real risks during Idaho's harsh winters. At Lewiston [...]
Alysha Schwartz has been a local her whole life, growing up in Genesee with her parents Shawn and Shelly O’Connell and two siblings. She attended the University of Idaho for her Bachelor’s in Animal Science and Washington State University for her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family, riding horses, and attending the Lewiston Roundup and local fairs.
“My love for veterinary medicine began as a young kid watching my mom perform surgeries or pull a calf on my families ranch and wanting to be just like her.” Alysha has a fondness for bovine and equine but developed a love in providing care for small animals. “I am excited to join the Lewiston Vet Clinic family and work alongside friends and family while providing quality care to animals big and small.”
Raegan grew up in Ritzville Washington and has always had a love for animals, especially dogs. She has a 2 year old rescue named Axel who loves coming to work and seeing everyone at Lewiston Vet Clinic. Since Raegan was 10 years old until she graduated high school, she showed pigs at her local fair.
Raegan originally went to school to become a Radiology Tech, but found her way to Lewiston Vet Clinic in 2024 and has enjoyed her time as a large animal veterinary assistant. Her favorite part of the job is that every day is different, and seeing the different personalities of all the animals that come into the clinic. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, friends, pets, and going to her family’s lake house in the summer months.
Dr. Hein was raised in Hydesville, California, and completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Nevada, Reno, where she earned degrees in Biology and Veterinary Science. She went on to attend Washington State University for veterinary school, where she developed a strong interest in internal medicine and working with small ruminants. Her love for veterinary medicine began after growing up in a rural community surrounded by animals and agriculture. Dr. Hein is especially drawn to the problem-solving nature of internal medicine and enjoys the challenges and rewards of working with both companion animals and livestock.
In her free time, she loves crocheting, reading, swimming, and exploring the outdoors with her energetic Border Collie puppy, Peach.
Dr. Hannah Streams grew up on a hobby farm in Schwenksville, Pennsylvania, where she showed livestock in 4-H and rode with her father who was a large animal veterinarian. Upon moving to rural New Mexico in high school, she became involved in FFA and enjoyed training reining cow horses while also working as an exercise rider for Arabian and Thoroughbred racehorses. Dr. Streams obtained her bachelors of science in Animal Science with a minor in Microbiology from Oklahoma State University. She achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian when she graduated from the University of Illinois as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Though she enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine, Dr. Streams has a particular interest in equine dentistry and equine theriogenology. In her free time, she loves to hike, kayak, read, trail ride, and spends time with her two bottle baby cats, Cubby and Sneetch. Dr. Streams is excited to be joining the LVC crew as a mixed animal veterinarian and is looking forward to exploring the PNW!
Gabriel is from La Grande, Oregon, where he grew up showing steers and raising a breeding herd of Boer goats. The animals he raised throughout his childhood grew his passion for working with animals, especially livestock. Gabriel is currently an undergraduate studying animal science at the University of Idaho with the goal of becoming a veterinarian. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and camping in the mountains around La Grande.
Sydney was born and raised in Lewiston Idaho. She spent 5 years in 4H showing rabbits, pigs, and steers. She is currently attending LCSC for a degree in Biology, then plans on going to vet school. In her free time she loves hanging out with her family, friends doing anything outdoors, from hunting, fishing, jeeping, or sitting around the campfire at her family cabin. She has a golden lab named Oly.
Savannah was raised in South San Francisco, California and attended Montana State University during her undergrad, where she obtained a bachelors in Animal Science. She then moved to Saint Kitts and Nevis to attend veterinary school at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. She then completed her clinical year at the University of Minnesota. Her love for veterinary medicine started at a young age growing up surrounded by ranchers. She quickly developed an greater interest in equine and bovine medicine. She has a Quarter Horse, Sunny, and Sadie, a Border Collie. When she’s not working, she enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, trail riding, and driving on adventures. “I’m really excited to join the team and I look forward to assisting the public in providing good quality care for their animals, big and small!”
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Rachael was born and raised in central Wisconsin, where her love for the veterinary field started. She began at a local non-kill humane society that had a low cost spay and neuter program. Her college career started at the University of Wisconsin – River Falls. While attending UW River Falls she worked at a veterinary clinic as a receptionist, and later began to grow in other parts of the clinic. When her family decided to venture to Idaho, she couldn’t miss the opportunity to experience the amazing northwest. She then transferred to the University of Idaho where she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science Pre-Vet. In her final year of college at U of I, she got a job as a small animal assistant at LVC. She fell in love with the job, co-workers, vets, and decided this is where she wants to be. She has a strong passion in caring for this vet clinic like it’s her own, and takes pride in her job. In her free time she likes to spend time outdoors with her 4 kids and husband. Together they have 3 horses, a dog, 3 cats, 2 ducks, and too many chickens.
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Bio Coming Soon.
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Bio Coming Soon.
I grew up in Woodland, Washington, where my sisters and I were adopted on my 3rd birthday. I really enjoy reading, gardening, hunting, anything outdoors and of course anytime I spend with my kids. I am extremely passionate about my family and friends. I have 4 dogs, 5 chickens and a bunny; although my favorite animal is dolphins. I completed high school at the young age of 15 and was the first in my family to graduate from College with honors and certified in Radiology and Fear Free. We recently relocated back to Lewiston, ID to get a change of scenery and lifestyle. I am currently taking classes to become a licensed Technician, but I did get my Associates Degree in Culinary Arts, Veterinary Assistant and Restaurant Management. The reason I wanted to go into the veterinary field is to make a positive impact on the lives of the animals and their human companions. I find it is a fulfilling career and I get to go to work loving what I do. Every day is a new opportunity to grow and learn.
Kailey was born and raised in Lewiston, Id. She always had a love for animals (big and small). She has 5 fur-kids of her own with her spouse; Marisa. Kailey and her wife were married in May of 2023. They enjoy going for walks, hiking and doing anything outdoors (as long as it’s not too hot). She has been with the Lewiston vet Clinic for a little over a year now. She has learned so much just in her first year of being with the clinic. Her favorite thing about working at Lewiston vet Clinic is the family-feeling environment. At lot of workplaces say they have a family feeling; but they truly mean it here at the clinic.
Heather was born in Grangeville, ID, where she had 2 Appaloosa horses named Mocha and Locka, and a wolf mix named Mauie. She would always catch and help animals in need, like salamanders, frogs, rabbits, cats, dogs, etc. Heather always knew she wanted to become a small animal / exotic veterinarian, with all the love she carries for scaly-furry animals. She is currently working towards her goal to become a veterinarian by taking classes at WSU. Heather is thrilled to have the opportunity to learn and see all the animals at LVC. She enjoys working with such amazing people and clients and is blessed to have made friends with good hearted people here at the clinic.
Brittany grew up in Wallowa, Oregon and moved to Clarkston in 2014. She grew up on a farm with horses, a donkey, dogs, and chickens. Throughout middle school and high school her aunt taught her how to barrel race, pole bend, and trail ride. Towards high school her father and her started a journey to raise and breed 4-H show lambs. She learned at a young age how to vaccinate and take care of lambs. Growing up Brittany thought of going to vet school but diverted to mechanics. Life came back around on her and she got a job here at LVC. Currently she is learning, loving, and enjoying day to day endeavors at the clinic. She continues to push herself to keep progressing and learning here at the clinic with the support of her spouse, Randy, and their 2 dogs, Remi and Duke.
Sam grew up on a farm in Fraser, ID where she first found her love for large animals, raising cattle and riding horses. She was a member of 4H for 7 years taking market beef. She also enjoys packing flags for the Weippe Rodeo.
Sam’s favorite part about working at LVC is that everyday has a new set of tasks and new cases.
If Sam is not at work, you can find her with her horse, visiting family, or in the woods.
Saige is originally from a small agricultural town in Northern California, where her involvement in 4-H and FFA sparked her passion for veterinary medicine. During high school, Saige gained valuable experience working with both small and large animal veterinarians. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Pre-Veterinary Sciences at the University of Idaho, with an expected graduation in 2025, and is actively applying to veterinary schools. Saige aims to earn her DVM and specialize in food animal medicine. Outside of work and school, she enjoys participating in intramural sports, fishing, and spending time outdoors with friends and family.
Hali is a current student at the University of Idaho pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science Pre-Vet. She plans on going to vet school soon after she graduates from her undergrad.
Hali grew up in Lewiston and did cheerleading in High School and U of I. Hali enjoys fly fishing, dirt bike riding, camping, and of course taking care of animals. She has a dog names Kobi and a cat named Winnie.
Dee is a Large Animal Customer Service Representative and Veterinary Assistant. She has been a part of the LVC family since 2019.
Dee grew up in Boring, Oregon and moved to the LC Valley in 1995. The highlight of her life was raising her 4 children here and watching them participate in baseball, volleyball, basketball, and rodeos. Dee owns her own horses and raises Angus cattle
Outside of work she loves spending time with her family and beloved cows.
Brooke is native to Lewiston, ID, and has grown up in the LC Valley. She has always known she wanted to work with animals from a very young age. She started her veterinary journey across the river at Rustebakke’s before spending some time at Idaho Equine in Nampa. Finally, she made her way back home to the Lewiston Veterinary Clinic in June of 2024.
Brooke started out as a receptionist and is now mainly working as a large animal technician. She enjoys working as a tech because she sees every case is an opportunity to learn something new and expand her skill set. When she is not at work or studying, she can either be found at home curled up with her cat and a good book or on a trail ride with her horse, Bo.
Barb started working at LVC back in 1979. She started out in the barns as a barn hand/assistant and moved into the pharmacy.
Barb enjoys hanging out with her grandkids and family, floating the St. Joe River.
Working here as long as she has, she has gotten to meet a lot of people. Going out on herd farm calls to work cattle, she has been able to see many places. Barb is actively involved in 4H and animal projects, and is currently on the Latah County Fair Board.
Bob was born in Colorado, lived for a time in California, and came to Idaho in 1970 to attend the University of Idaho. He graduated with a B.S. in Animal Science in 1974. He has worked for the US Forest Service in Southern Utah at the Dixie National Forest while in college. During and after college he worked for the TM Ranch on the Idaho/Nevada border. He later returned to the University of Idaho in pursuit of a master’s degree. He came to work at the Lewiston Veterinary Clinic in 1980, where he remains. He likes his dogs, and they tolerate him.
Dr. Missy Covert was raised in Palouse Washington. She attended Washington State University where she obtained a bachelors in Animal Science. She then moved to Grenada to complete vet school at St. George’s University, completing her final year at Oklahoma State University in 2020. She practiced in Roundup Montana for a year before joining the team at Lewiston Vet Clinic in 2021.
Dr. Shelly O’Connell comes from Plains, a small town in the NW corner of Montana. She was raised on a cattle ranch which led to a love of animals and a career in veterinary medicine. She received a Microbiology Bachelor of Science degree from Montana State University and then a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Washington State University in 1993. Upon graduation, she started working at the Lewiston Veterinary Clinic as an associate and has stayed in the Lewiston Valley ever since, while eventually becoming an owner of the clinic in 2003. She enjoys practicing large animal medicine/surgery – equine, cattle, small ruminants, and swine. Over the years, fair time – volunteering with the local 4H/FFA groups and serving on the Lewiston Roundup Board has been very enjoyable. Raising three kids, having a cattle herd, and showing animals over the years keeps life very busy. In her free time, Dr. O’Connell enjoys spending time with her family – grandkids, camping, fishing, riding horses, and looking after the family cow herd.
Dr. Hoch was born in Moscow, Idaho and grew up in the Boise area. He started his college career at the College of Idaho in Caldwell, where he met his wife, and later graduated from vet school at Washington State University. He has been a veterinarian for 38 years and an owner of Lewiston Vet Clinic for about 32 years. He works with many species; exotics, avian, dogs, cats, and in earlier years worked on bovine and equine. Dr. Hoch does everything from regular check-ups, medicine cases, general surgeries, and his favorite, orthopedic surgeries. He knew he wanted to help animals and become a veterinarian when his first dog unfortunately passed away after being hit by a car. He’s always had an interest in medicine, but enjoyed the challenges that veterinary medicine presents, more. Dogs hold a special place in his heart, and he and his wife have 3 of their own, Tule, a Golden Retriever, Bessie, a Cairn terrier, and Bee, a Long-haired Dachshund. In the future, he hopes to find time to retire and have more time to work in the garden, go fly fishing, and Tinker with old cars.
