Hi, I’m Dr. Jessica Kowaleski! I graduated from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine in 2009 and have been part of the Veterinary Village family since 2012. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work in various practice settings — from small and exotic animal practices to rural clinics and humane societies — which has given me invaluable experience in treating a wide variety of cases and clients.
I am a proud member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association.
Why I Chose this Profession
My love for animals started at a young age. Growing up, I was always surrounded by animals, starting with our family Labrador Retriever. Whether I was searching for frogs and snakes in the backyard or caring for my own unique pets like anoles and ferrets, I was drawn to animals and their well-being. Becoming a veterinarian allowed me to turn that passion into a career, where I can help pets live their best, healthiest lives.
Favorite Part of My Job
What I love most about being a general practitioner is the variety! Every day is different, and I never get bored with the cases that come my way. I particularly enjoy working with internal medicine cases, as they provide a great challenge and an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of pets. Skin diseases are another area of interest for me — I find it so rewarding to help animals suffering from significant discomfort find relief. And, honestly, there’s nothing more fun than puppy and kitten visits! Their excitement and energy are contagious, and it’s always a joy to see them grow and thrive.
Personal Hobbies & Interests
When I’m not at work, I spend most of my time with my family. My two boys, ages 8 and 10, keep me busy with their sports, Cub Scouts, and other activities. We’re often at soccer games and tournaments, but whenever we can, I love to take my Golden Retriever, Josie, to local hiking trails where she can run and swim. I also enjoy gardening — each summer, I harvest a variety of vegetables and freeze enough stuffed peppers and zucchini bread to last us through the year!
Getting To Know You
If you weren’t a vet, what would you do?
I did consider going into human medicine, but animals have always held too much of a draw for me to do anything else.
What animal scares you more than any other?
Hyenas!
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?
I have 2:
1. Winning over my husband when I wanted to bring home a rescue dog I'd fallen for during vet school and he initially said no (does it really count as an accomplishment when it was done by crying for 3 days until he caved in?). She came to us deaf and with no training, and we learned a lot in the early days after taking her home! We were fortunate to have 10 wonderful years with her.
2. My kids - corny but true! My boys are imaginative, busy individuals who make everyday fun and different. I can't imagine life without them!
What do you do in your spare time?
I have little spare time nowadays with my boys getting into sports (soccer and basketball are the favorites). When we can, we love to hike on local county trails. Especially ones that traverse woods.
What do you see as the greatest danger toward household pets?
Being loved to death by overly caring owners who feed them until they are obese, leading to a myriad of other health problems. Exercise, good nutrition, and moderation are just as important for pets as they are for us.
What is the most exotic animal you have ever treated?
I loved seeing the occasional pet rat at my previous clinic in Minnesota. They’re friendly and inquisitive creatures. I even got to surgically remove a very large tumor from one.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Anything sweet — fruit if I’m feeling healthy, otherwise chocolate or cheesecake.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
When people don’t clear their sidewalks of snow.
Name 5 things people might be surprised about if they knew about you?
1. I can’t watch horror movies because I usually end up in tears halfway through.
2. I also cry every time I watch Homeward Bound (at the end when Shadow arrives home).
3. I clean and cook my own fish that I catch.
4. I prefer eating the wild game I grew up with (venison, duck, geese, and pheasants) to store-bought meats.
5. I snore.