Today is a special day as I get to introduce Dr. Ann Schneider of Hallett Veterinary Hospital to all of you. She’s a veterinarian immersed in the compassionate world of a small animal clinic, where each day unfolds with a tapestry of joy and fulfillment. The unique and rewarding dynamic that arises from daily interactions with pets and their devoted owners is nothing short of extraordinary. Within the intimate confines of the clinic, she is privileged to form deep connections, not only with the animals entrusted to her care but also with the compassionate families who share their companions’ well-being. Witnessing the positive impact of veterinary care on the lives of these cherished pets is immensely gratifying.
Whether it’s offering preventive guidance, diagnosing and treating illnesses, or providing solace in times of distress, Ann discovers purpose and satisfaction in contributing to the health and happiness of our furry friends and their families. The sense of community within the small animal clinic enriches the overall experience, allowing her to forge meaningful connections and make a significant difference in the lives of both our two-legged and four-legged community members. Join me on this heartfelt journey where the bonds formed and the positive impacts created resonate within the tapestry of a close-knit veterinary practice.
About Ann Schneider
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have been married to my high school sweetheart, Ryan, for 11 years and we have two wonderful children; Benjamin and Maggie. We also have two fur babies; Hank and Chip. We love spending time outdoors – running, fishing and gardening to name a few.
Q: Please tell us about your life and what you do (whether working in our community, a business owner, volunteer, etc.). How did you choose that path?
I work as a full-time veterinarian and share ownership of Hallett Veterinary Hospital. My journey in the field began with graduation from the Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine in 2015. Following my education, my spouse and I spent three years in north-central Wisconsin before relocating to Oconomowoc in 2019. The Hallett team is exceptional, and I feel fortunate that my path led me to this place. My main areas of professional focus revolve around laparoscopic and soft tissue surgery. Serving the vibrant community here brings me immense joy, and I look forward to contributing to its well-being for many more years!
Q: What do you love most about what you do?
I have a passion for establishing connections and nurturing relationships with both our clients and their animal companions, fostering the invaluable human-animal bond.
Q: What was the most difficult challenge in getting to where you are now or in your life?
The educational journey to become a veterinarian is undeniably demanding. Another significant challenge for me was navigating a career shift from mixed animal to small animal practice. Despite the uncertainties, my family and I took a leap of faith and relocated, a decision that turned out to be the best we ever made!
Q: What is the most rewarding part?
The most gratifying aspect of veterinary medicine lies in providing assistance to animals and their owners during critical moments of need.
Q: What are some of your future goals? Do you have anything exciting coming up that you would like to share?
In the field of veterinary medicine, there is a perpetual process of learning and personal growth. My aspiration is to consistently deliver the highest quality of care for our patients and clients, ensuring their well-being remains a top priority.
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in doing something similar to what you have done/are doing?
Join us for a shadowing experience! The most effective way to determine if something is the right fit is to witness it in action and actively engage in the experience.
Ann Schneider & Our Community
Q: What is your favorite thing about our community, favorite thing to do, or something unique about our community that you love? (Feel free to share as much as you’d like!)
Residing in lake country is truly exhilarating. Upon our move to Oconomowoc, we were pleasantly surprised by the warm and welcoming nature of the community. The abundance of year-round activities and events, coupled with the joy of spending a day on one of the many lakes, makes this area an unbeatable place to live.
Q: Do you have a favorite coffee shop, cocktail shop, or restaurant?
Our children delight in grabbing ice cream from Whelan’s or Mullen’s and savoring it on the boardwalk by Fowler Lake. As for a delightful date night, my husband and I enjoy the experience at Wine Maniacs.
Q: What 3 words would you use to describe our community?
Fun, Inviting, Vibrant.
For Fun
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
During the initial three years of my career, I dedicated myself to practicing mixed animal medicine. My daily routine involved traversing from farm to farm, conducting herd checks on dairy cattle, and attending to the health needs of sick goats. It was a rewarding and challenging period, and those experiences played a pivotal role in shaping the veterinarian I am today.
Q: What is your favorite book, TV show, movie, poem, or song? Why?
I am currently reading a series by C.J. Box. I am on book 5 of 24 so I have a ways to go but I can’t put them down! The way he depicts the scenery and adventures in his novels really speaks to the outdoor enthusiast in me.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My husband and children are certainly the inspiration behind all that I do. Additionally, I was fortunate enough to grow up with an incredibly hardworking father and two parents that set such a great example of a loving and Christian marriage. My husband and I hope we can mirror these same qualities as an example for our children.
Q: If you were a drink (can be a coffee drink, alcoholic, non-alcoholic, etc.), what would you be?
Probably bourbon on the rocks – mellow but strong!
Q: If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be with? Why?
I am deeply moved by the influence of my husband’s mother, even though she passed away when he was young. I would love to meet her and express my gratitude for raising such a wonderful son. The thought of being reunited with her in heaven one day brings great comfort.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
The prospect of traveling excites us immensely! While it’s challenging to pick just one destination, exploring Europe is a dream we hope to fulfill someday.
Q: What makes you the happiest?
Achieving the perfect work-life balance is a true blessing. While I find immense joy in my work, there’s nothing quite like the happiness of returning home to my kiddos and hubby each day.
Q: Any general life advice you would like to share?
Anything is possible with a combination of hard work and faith!
Where to Find Ann Schneider
Email: dr.ann@hallettvet.com
Phone: 262-569-0801
