Stephen Juriga DVM, Dipl. AVDC.

My family moved to a 20-acre farm in Wheaton when I was about 7 years old. It was a very momentous move in my life because it really allowed me great exposure to all types of animals. Over the years we had horses, cows, chickens, rabbits, sheep, dogs and just about any and every stray cat that needed a home. I really had a bond with animals and truly enjoyed caring for them.

I vividly remember the excitement of lambing seasons. My brother and I took turns going to the barn at 10:00 PM and 3:00 AM to check on the ewes. When an ewe was giving birth or had just done so, we were the extra pair of hands to help clean the lambs and get them to nurse.

Dr. McCaslin, our good family friend and Veterinarian, would often visit our farm for sheep and horse ailments (my brothers' horse kept running through fences!) and his "job" fascinated me. Over the years I spent time at his hospital as well as worked for the DuPage Animal Control. Both of these experiences bonded me even more strongly to the profession of Veterinary Medicine.

I feel lucky to work in a field that allows me to re-live memories of my childhood. It is a very rewarding experience to have the ability to help and heal the animals I love best.

Degrees:
BS Microbiology University of Wyoming 1985
DVM University of Illinois 1987

Areas of Interest: I enjoy the medical, surgical and dental care of all my patients as well as the relationships I have developed with their Moms and Dads. Veterinary dentistry, surgery and ultrasound are areas of enjoyment and constant learning within the veterinary field. My goal is to offer preventative care and solutions to problems that exist in order to maximize the health and well being of your pet.

Pets: "Derby" our Golden Retriever was our kid before kids. He is kept company at home with "Rex" a 1 year old golden retriever, "Harry" the rat, Rosie the tarantula, two frogs and "Jack" a Jackson Chameleon.

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