Veterinarian Overview
Dr. Joe Whalendrjoephoto-3-768x1024 What is your educational and veterinary medicine background? I graduated from Lake Forest College with a degree in Biology and from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. What made you decide to become a veterinarian? I always knew that I wanted to work with animals. During high school, I planned to become a Wildlife Biologist. After working for the state in road construction a couple of summers and then working for myself doing painting, I realized that I needed to work in the private sector. What is your most memorable moment as a vet? I have lots of great memories, but I think graduating from vet school is my most memorable. How did you come to join LePar Animal Hospital? After working a few years at Blum Animal Hospital in Chicago, I started to get antsy to own my own practice. I looked all around the Chicagoland area, but after working a couple of days at LePar on a trial basis, I really fell in love with Southsiders. Our clients are genuine, down to earth people that really care for their pets. What are the best things you find about being a veterinarian? I love the variety in our profession. This keeps my job interesting every day. What is the most common problem you encounter in the pets you see? Because of my special area of interest, arthritis is the most common thing I see. What was the most rewarding case you have had as a veterinarian? I get super excited when pets that initially are unable to walk respond to treatments and regain their mobility. What are your special interests in the field of veterinary medicine? Orthopedic surgery, acupuncture, chiropractic and rehabilitation. What is the most unusual pet you have helped treat? Hedge Hogs. They are cute and friendly but you need to anesthetize them to do an exam. What are your favorite activities outside of treating pets? Exercise-running, biking, tennis, basketball, lifting weights, gardening, cooking and hanging out with my family. What is your biggest pet peeve? Waiting or making people wait for me. Favorite place to eat? Any Brazilian Steakhouse Favorite place to visit? Any place of natural beauty with my family.
