Nicole Nudo, CVT
Hello there! I am Nicole. I have worked at PetVets for over 15 years now. I am a licensed Veterinary Technician, graduating in 2010 from Joliet Junior College. In 2005 I graduated from North Park University with a BS in Biology and a minor in chemistry. Throughout my schooling I have had the amazing opportunity to intern with the Shedd Aquarium, not once but twice! In their veterinary hospital I worked with beluga whales, penguins, exotic fish and more. Typical medical procedures like radiographs and blood draw become tricky when your patients are aquatic. I also studied the bahamian iguana and cataloged reef fish on Shedd’s research vessel in the Exhmas, Bahamas.
My plan was to become a veterinarian; working at PetVets to “get my foot in the door” I started as a kennel attendant. As my plans changed so did my role at PetVets. I owe a majority of my veterinary knowledge to the amazing veterinarians at PetVets, always willing to teach me. Dr. Cidon couldn’t get my foot out of the door now – even if she tried!
I am currently living every girl’s dream having married my childhood crush; we recently purchased our first home. We have a gorgeous boxer named Gus and two turtles. We are enjoying our family unit in our home, but cannot wait for our family to grow with furry and non-furry babies!
Michele Specht, RVT
Hi, I am Michele. I’ve been at PetVets since its opening day! I started working at animal hospitals at 15 and knew I found my career. I went on to attend Purdue University and graduated with a degree in Veterinary Technology in 1990.
Dr. Cidon and I met at a busy 24-hour emergency facility in the northwest suburbs and I knew she was amazing from the start. When she offered me the wonderful opportunity to open PetVets Animal Hospital with her I knew we would work well together and jumped at the chance.
When I’m not at PetVets you can find me spending time with my family and cheering on the Chicago Blackhawks!
Genevieve Sanchez
My name is Genevieve Sanchez and I am one of the surgical assistants here at PetVets. I have been a Level 1 Surgical Assistant since 2008. I began working at the animal hospital in 2001 while attending UIC in pursuit of my bachelors degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences. After graduation, I eagerly accepted a full-time position from Dr. Cidon and never looked back; PetVets has provided me with extensive in-house training. I soon discovered that my natural aptitude for multitasking, coordinating and structuring blended well with my enjoyment for working directly with the patients.
When my work for the day is done at PetVets, I go home to my husband, our two children, and our little chihuahua family that consist of Boss and Bebe. They are siblings from a foster situation that turned into a forever home!
As a dog owner and animal lover, I understand that it can be stressful to bring your pets in for procedures. My goal is to make sure that the experience for you and your beloved pet is as smooth and as stress-free as possible. I look forward to meeting you!
Sande Ogren, RVT
My name is Sande. Prior to joining the PetVets team in 2007, I worked at another PetVets in Southern California where I had the pleasure of working with some really cool animals including servals and Siberian lynxes. I graduated from the Veterinary Technician program at Pierce College in 2006, and have been working full time in veterinary medicine for 20 years.
In my previous lives I have been an equestrian hunter/jumper trainer, an actor/singer, and I used to work in television production for shows like The Carol Duval Show on HGTV.
In 1995 I left Florida State University with a Theater degree and the friendship of a guy who would later become my husband. Together we have a son who is almost 16 years old.
Taylor Strien, CVT
Hi there, I’m Taylor! I’m one of the veterinary technicians, I’ve been with PetVets since January 2018 so I am newer to the team but very excited to be a part of our amazing hospital! I graduated Fox College Vet Tech Institute in August 2016 and became certified in November 2016. I previously worked at an emergency walk-in clinic and was lucky enough to work with some wonderful animal care professionals and got tons of great hands-on experience. Prior to becoming a tech, I professionally worked over 8 years with animals as a canine coach in doggie daycares, was a pet stylist, and dog trainer!
Ever since I could walk, I had a natural connection with animals. I was always a huge dog lover, but I discovered my love for working with rescue cats while acting as an adoptions coordinator. Consequently, I now am the proud fur mom of three cats; Fern, Arwin, and Zoe.
Over the years I’ve also grown a special fondness for exotics; I also own two sweet male rats, Bowie and Buddha. From large animals to small, working with and caring for animals has always been my dream and I’m so grateful to be able to provide the highest quality of care to your beloved four-legged friends at PetVets!