'Continuity Of Care': Family-Owned Vet Business Turns 50 In Glenview

GLENVIEW, IL — Considering she spent much of her childhood at her father's Glenview veterinarian business, it's no surprise Dr. Ashley Rossman, DVM, wound up working at Glen Oak Dog & Cat Hospital. Located at 330 Waukegan Road, the business was founded by Dr. Richard Rossman, DVM, in 1975.

"We truly care about both our patients and their owners," Ashley Rossman recently told Patch. "We treat our patients as if they were our own. We provide up-to-date veterinary technology and state-of-the-art care at a reasonable cost."

For Ashley, she was observing the resuscitation of newborn puppies via Caesarian section when she decided she wanted to follow in her father's footsteps. She attended the University of Michigan and the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, before joining her father and the Glen Oak staff after graduation.

Richard Rossman was educated at the University of Illinois, where he earned his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees. He served with the U.S. Army as a veterinarian in South Korea and achieved the rank of captain. Shortly after completing his military service, Rossman founded Glen Oak Dog & Cat Hospital.

"I feel as if I can continue caring for pets for another 50 years. We have wonderful clients, and an excellent support staff," Richard Rossman said. "I'm very proud that I've been able to consistently care for North Shore pets, and to have my daughter follow in my footsteps for so many years. It's a heartwarming feeling."

Glen Oak Dog & Cat Hospital is an American Animal Hospital Association member clinic, which according to the owners is considered very prestigious, with less than 10 percent of veterinary hospitals achieving such prominence. The doctors are both members of the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association, Chicago Veterinary Medical Association and American Veterinary Medical Association. Ashley Rossman is on the house of delegates for the AVMA and is the current treasurer of the AHVMA.

An active member of the Glenview Chamber of Commerce since 1976, the owners of Glen Oak Dog & Cat Hospital say having a relationship with other neighborhood businesses is very important. In addition, loyal customers have helped the business thrive over the years.

"We have multiple customers that have been part of the Glen Oak family since its inception in 1975," Richard Rossman said. "We sometimes even see their grandchildren come in with their pets. Our patient base continues to expand because our clients are happy with our services."

According to Ashley Rossman, veterinary medicine has dramatically evolved both in the industry and at Glen Oak. In the near future, Ashley predicts the increased use of monoclonal antibodies for a variety of medical conditions. New drugs with fewer side effects will also be produced.

"Ultrasound was in its infancy at the beginning of Glen Oak. Today, we have a state-of-the-art ultrasound machine. We have extremely accurate in-house blood testing machines for emergent cases," Ashley said. "We practice traditional Western veterinary medicine in addition to a variety of alternative modalities including acupuncture, chiropractic and herbal medicine. When needed, we utilize a board-certified veterinary surgeon to perform our specialized surgical cases."

Calling it a "challenging and rewarding career," Ashley Rossman encourages young people to consider a career in veterinary medicine.

"No two days are the same. We experience the highest of highs and the lowest of lows," Ashley said. "However, making a positive difference in the lives of our pet patients and their owners is exceptionally satisfying."

As Glen Oak moves into the future, with the owners excited about the next 50 years for the business, Richard Rossman is happy to be working alongside his daughter.

"It is a very satisfying experience to have my daughter in line to follow me. There is continuity of care going forward," Richard said. "We have a multigenerational knowledge base and often consult with each other on cases."

To learn more about Glen Oak Dog & Cat Hospital, call 847-729-5200 or visit their website at www.glenoakanimalhospital.com for further information.