Meet the CROC Team

We are Medical Professionals.

Our team is composed of the most accomplished, licensed, certified, & skilled Veterinary Medical Physical Rehabilitation specialists in Orange County with more than 10 years serving our community's pets.

Learn about our Credentials

Certified Companion Animal Rehabilitation Therapist

North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine's CCAT program provides the most up-to-date information in the constantly evolving field of companion animal physical rehabilitation taught by active university instructors, expert clinicians, researchers, and recognized industry experts. The CCAT program draws from ongoing research, hands-on training, evidence-based case studies, clinical experience, and leading companies in the field of veterinary medicine. Only Veterinarians, Licensed Veterinary Technicians, Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, and select students in one of the accepted professions are permitted to enroll and proof of degree/licensure is required. To begin, CCAT students study animal anatomy and physiology, developing a deep understanding of the body's normal and abnormal cardiovascular functions, skeletal structures and joint biomechanics, nerves, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia including where they're located, what they're attached to and interact with, what their purpose is, how they change with age, how to identify any dysfunction within each structure, and how to best manage associated medical conditions with medication, therapy, and/or surgery. Next, they learn how to perform physical examinations and outcome assessments that go well beyond the typical vet visit, including gait evaluation, measuring range of motion, circumferential musculature measurements, testing reflexes and proprioception, and identifying less obvious signs of pain and inflammation. Once that foundation has been established, CCAT students will study exercise physiology, therapeutic massage, range of motion, stretching, gait training, strengthening exercises, balance and proprioceptive exercises, aquatic exercises, and exercises for wellness/prevention as well as clinically proven modalities such as superficial heating and cooling agents, therapeutic ultrasound, extracorporeal shockwave treatment, pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, laser therapy, and electrical stimulation so that they can prescribe and perform therapeutic exercise programs. After completing those courses, CCAT students are then required to participate in 40 hours of in-clinic observation under the supervision of an approved CCAT or CCRP program graduate, during which time they will draft multiple patient case studies discussing each patient's medical history and presentation, why certain modalities are prescribed, how those treatments work, potential risks of treatment, the patient's response to treatment, and how the prescribed treatment plan may change as the patient's status changes. Upon meeting the above described requirements, CCAT students must then pass both a written and practical exam to demonstrate their proficient understanding of and skill in performing Companion Animal Physical Rehabilitation. Source: North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

The University of Tennessee Canine Rehabilitation Certificate Program (CCRP) is the world’s first and best university-based credential program and is open only to Veterinarians, Licensed Veterinary Technicians, Physical Therapists, Physical Therapy Assistants, Occupational Therapists or select students. The curriculum, discipline, testing and review requirements to become a CCRP were developed under strict guidelines of evidence-based results, clinical experience and faculty board review and is taught by an internationally recognized faculty, including board-certified veterinarians, university instructors, researchers, and other experts, many of which are responsible for the publication of a majority of the available literature on canine and feline physical Rehabilitation. CCRP students begin by learning comparative anatomy, commonly seen orthopedic and neurological conditions, response of tissues to disuse and remobilization, and commonly used therapeutic interventions. Next they learn the method of action and clinical application of physical agent modalities used in canine physical rehabilitation including superficial heating and cooling agents, therapeutic ultrasound, extracorporeal shock wave treatment, cold lasers and neuromuscular electrical stimulation as well as the skills necessary to prescribe and provide therapeutic exercise programs for dogs including nutritional modifications, range of motion, strengthening exercises, aquatic exercises and exercises for wellness/prevention. An entire course of the program is dedicated to understanding the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis, including the importance of normal cartilage structure and function, looking at the joint as an organ, and the efficacy of different treatment options. After completing their courses, CCRP students are then required to participate in 40 hours of in-clinic observation under the supervision of an approved CCRP program graduate, during which time they will draft multiple patient case studies discussing each patient's medical history and presentation, why certain modalities are prescribed, how those treatments work, potential risks of treatment, the patient's response to treatment, and how the prescribed treatment plan may change as the patient's status changes. Upon meeting the above described requirements, CCRP students must then pass both a written and practical exam to demonstrate their proficient understanding of and skill in performing Canine Physical Rehabilitation. Source: University of Tennessee Veterinary Academy of Higher Learning

Registered Veterinary Technician

Little known fact - "Veterinary Technician" is a legally protected title in California, despite the term being used to describe most non-veterinarian professionals regardless of their education and state licensure (or lack thereof). A person cannot legally refer to themselves as a Veterinary Technician unless they are Registered as such with the state of California. If they are not registered, they are legally referred to as Veterinary Assistants and do not have the same medical skills and legal abilities as a Registered Veterinary Technician. California RVT's can attain their credentials via two unique pathways. Students seeking their licensure via the Traditional Route must graduate from an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) accredited or California-approved veterinary technology program (typically an associate’s or bachelor’s degree). Their clinical experience is integrated into the accredited curriculum and they are eligible to apply for the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) through the American Association of Veterinary State Boards upon graduation. Highly experienced Veterinary Assistants may also apply for the VTNE upon graduation from an approved post-secondary Veterinary Technology program and completion of a minimum of 4,416 hours of clinical practice under the direct supervision of a California-licensed Veterinarian. Alternate Route students must also submit written documentation from their supervising veterinarian(s) attesting to their proficiency in specific veterinary medical skills. Regardless of route, education to become an RVT includes patient examinations, emergency procedures, laboratory procedures, diagnostic imaging, surgical assisting, anesthesia, animal nursing, nutrition, dentistry, animal behavior, and pharmacology for multiple animal species as well as client communications, medical recordkeeping, and knowledge of California's laws and regulations governing veterinary medicine. Due to their extensive knowledge, experience, and state licensure, RVT's may perform more advanced veterinary medical procedures with less Veterinarian supervision required. They must renew their California license every 2 years and must complete a minimum of 20 hours of formal continuing education during each renewal period. Source: California Veterinary Medical Association, American Association of Veterinary State Boards

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

The average veterinarian completes 4.5 years of undergraduate education, taking classes such as biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, physics, microbiology, anatomy and physiology, math, animal science, and more just to prepare for veterinary school. Some veterinarians already have a Master's degree or PhD before they enter veterinary school. Others may enter a dual DVM/MS or DVM/PhD program, and some go on after veterinary school to get additional degrees and/or specialty training. The next 4 years in veterinary school is equal to what human medical school students receive – but for multiple animal species instead of just one. Course subjects include anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, immunology, pathology, toxicology, biochemistry, surgical techniques, and many more, as well as in-depth courses on specific animal species and body systems. The early years are mostly spent in the classroom and laboratory to prepare the students for client-owned animal patients. Veterinary students get additional education and experience during clinical rotations, seeing animal patients under the close supervision of experienced mentors. Once they graduate from a U.S. veterinary school, they receive a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or Veterinary Medical Doctor (VMD) degree (the degrees are different in other countries). They are now veterinarians and are qualified to perform the duties of the profession. A number of veterinarians also seek additional training in the form of an internship (usually one year) and/or residency (approximately 2-3 years) and may become board certified in a specialty area. In order to practice veterinary medicine on animal patients, they must be licensed in each state in which they practice. State licensure requires a veterinarian to pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination that tests their veterinary knowledge. California also requires a veterinarian to pass the California Veterinary Law Exam, to test their knowledge of the state's laws and regulations governing veterinary medicine. Veterinarians must renew their California license every 2 years and must complete a minimum of 36 hours of formal continuing education during each renewal period. Source: American Veterinary Medical Association, California Veterinary Medical Association

Companion Animal Pain Management Certification

Graduates of the University of Tennessee’s Companion Animal Pain Management Certificate Program have had specialized training to best identify and treat a broad spectrum of painful conditions to help patients feel better fast. The CAPM program is exclusively offered to Licensed Veterinary Technicians and Veterinarians. CAPM students learn about the most effective, evidence-based treatment options and how to best utilize them in a multimodal approach to maximize their patient’s recovery as well as a strong focus on understanding the neurobiology of pain mechanisms and how various treatments interact with them. CAPM graduates have also undergone training to better communicate with pet owners about their pet’s pain and teach them how to be confident, active participants in their pet’s care with the goal of improving compliance with the prescribed treatment plan and optimizing the pet’s response to treatment. Source: University of Tennessee Veterinary Academy of Higher Learning

Certified Veterinary Acupuncture Therapist

Certifications in Veterinary Acupuncture Therapy are offered by multiple esteemed institutions but all are exclusive to Licensed Veterinarians and students who will become Licensed Veterinarians before completing the program. CVAT programs begin with in-depth anatomy and function of all the major acupuncture points including the neurological, musculoskeletal, fascial, and lymphatic structures associated with each for multiple species of animals. With that foundation in place, students learn how acupuncture influences pain modulation and neurological function so that they can then apply specific techniques, combinations, and even the addition of electroacupuncture to treat a wide variety of medical conditions. Given the delicate nature of acupuncture, it’s imperative that veterinarians become proficient in low-stress animal handling and quick, confident needle placement. As Acupuncture originates from Traditional Chinese Medicine, some programs will approach training with more focus on the concepts of Chi, Meridians, and Channels as opposed to Western Medicine’s focus on anatomy and physiology. To earn their certification as a Veterinary Acupuncture Therapist, Veterinarians must complete all courses and hands-on labs, submit case studies, and pass both a written and practical exam. Source: Canine Rehabilitation Institute, Chi University

Canine Arthritis Management Practitioner

North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine's CAMP program is the most comprehensive overview of canine arthritis management for veterinary professionals worldwide. Through case-based learning, students delve into all aspects of the identification, diagnosis, and multimodal management of the disease, as well as palliative/end of life care considerations. Emphasis is placed on following an evidence-based multimodal approach to management, with consideration of the biopsychosocial care model and focus on improving client compliance through enhanced communication and owner education. CAMP graduates are equipped with the latest research findings regarding pain medication, weight management, physical rehabilitation therapy, nutrition and supplements, injectable and intra-articular treatments, and surgical techniques to ensure patients receive the most effective treatment and remain comfortably active. Source: North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Wilbur

Dogtor of Veterinary Medicine

Dogtor Wilbur has been living and breathing rehab since he was just a pup. He spent months of his puppyhood with a splinted leg, then worked his way through physical rehabilitation to regain the strength and flexibility he had lost. These days, he strictly manages the CROC team, ensuring the high level of medical care our patients deserve. He frequently sacrifices his time and dignity to personally test all equipment, exercises, and treatments to make sure they meet his expectations for patient experience. His favorite part of rehab is meeting new patients that need a little confidence boost and helping them take on new challenges. In his free time, Dogtor Wilbur enjoys whipping human legs with his incessant tail wags, visiting the pet stores to get free cookies, and sunbathing.

Lauryn Harker, CCAT, CCRP, CAPM

Practice Owner & Rehab Practitioner

After years of experience in management, emergency medicine, and small animal care in pet hospitals throughout Orange County, Lauryn found her niche in Canine Rehabilitation. A graduate of the University Of Tennessee School Of Veterinary Medicine Canine Rehabilitation Program, Lauryn has received her Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner's License (CCRP) and is a member of the American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians. In 2024, Lauryn earned her Certification as a Companion Animal Rehabilitation Therapist from the North Carolina State University, making her among the first in the nation to become double certified in Veterinary Physical Rehabilitation. Lauryn holds a special place in her heart for older pets and enjoys giving impromptu massages to many of Canine Rehabilitation of Orange County's elderly patients. When Lauryn is not at Canine Rehabilitation of Orange County, she is an instructor at Orange County Veterinary Assistant School in Garden Grove. In her spare time, she likes to "rehabilitate" her mid-century ranch home with her husband, daughter, and her bully mix, Wilbur.

Giuliana Troutman, CCRP, RVT

Rehab Practitioner & Veterinary Technician

Giuliana graduated from Medaille University with a degree in Veterinary Technology and went on to pass her national veterinary technician exam in 2019. She then continued to specialize her Veterinary Medical education by enrolling in University of Tennessee School Of Veterinary Medicine Canine Rehabilitation Program and earned her Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner's License (CCRP) in 2022. Giuliana is a bold one with a sense of adventure. Having only visited California twice, she uprooted her east coast living and moved to Orange County to come join the CROC team. She is excited to experience Southern California winters and explore the various sushi options OC has to offer. She shares her home with her cats, Zeke and Zolla and in her spare time enjoys photography and nature.

Tiffany Downing, RVT

Practice Manager & Veterinary Technician

Tiffany has been working in Veterinary Medicine since 2011, graduated from Heritage College's Veterinary Technician Program in 2016, and earned her Registered Veterinary Technician license in 2017. Her experience ranges from general practice to emergency medicine, as well as neonate and exotic medicine on top of her experience working at CROC since 2016. Tiffany has a soft spot for XL and Molosser breeds and is currently "mom" to her big white supermutt, Kratos, and her menagerie of snakes. She is a strong believer in keeping pups fit and active to extend their quality and length of life. Her favorite part of Rehab is getting to see her favorite patients improve each week as they recover from their injuries/surgeries and developing relationships with patients that lasts for years.

Ingrid Valenzuela, RVT

Lead Veterinary Technician

After 16 years in Veterinary Medicine and experience ranging from Oncology and Ophthalmology to Emergency and Internal Medicine, Ingrid has chosen CROC as the second act of her career. She graduated from Professional Veterinary Assistant School in 2010 and earned her California license as a Registered Veterinary Technician in 2011. In addition to the one on one time with patients, her favorite part of working at CROC is being part of a well-versed and cohesive team that works together to support patients' recovery. When she is not here at CROC providing compassionate care to our patients, Ingrid can be found dabbling in art projects and caring for her own pets, 3 cats and a Chihuahua/Terrier mix named Tinee McNubbins.

Lorena Cortez, RVT

Veterinary Technician

Lorena is a graduate of Platt College with an Associate's degree in Veterinary Technology. She has been working in General Practice Veterinary Medicine for several years and earned her license as a Registered Veterinary Technician in 2024. While she is new to Rehab, she is a talented and compassionate professional and plans to pursue certification as a Veterinary Rehab Practitioner through North Carolina's CCAT program. Her favorite part of Rehab is getting to contribute to the transformative recoveries from the most hopeless of cases healing to return to their favorite activities. When not at CROC, Lorena can be found playing both electric and acoustic guitar. She is owned by two senior Chihuahua's named Dodger (she's a huge fan!) and Chancho.

Kathleen Gross, RVT

Veterinary Technician

Kathleen was President of Cal Poly Pomona's Animal Health Science and Technology Association, a group dedicated to promoting the role of the veterinary technician in clinical practice, laboratory animal care, and management, until she graduated in 2024. Prior to joining the CROC Team, Kathleen spent the last 5 years working in OC's general practice hospitals. Her favorite part of working at CROC is getting to develop trusting and loving relationships with her patients so they can relax into her healing treatments and go home feeling much better. In her free time, Kathleen can be found reading voraciously or playing video games. She is owned by Sherman the bearded dragon, Winnie the Domestic Longhair kitty, and Luna the black Lab. If Kathleen could have one super power, she would wish to have a photographic memory to help her remember every medical textbook she's ever read.

Melody Wain, RVT

Veterinary Technician

Driven by a passion for continued growth and a desire to learn from leaders in the field, Melody relocated all the way from Australia to join the CROC Team and pursue advanced training and education. During her time in Australia, she spent several years working extensively with dogs facing mobility challenges like CCL injuries and hip dysplasia and she holds a certification in Canine Myotherapy as well as a diploma in Canine Rehabilitation, Wellbeing, and Recovery. Melody graduated from Platt College in May 2025 with an Associate of Science degree in Veterinary Technology and earned her license as a Registered Veterinary Technician October 2025. Her goal has long been to work in a state-of-the-art facility like CROC where she could contribute to a team of dedicated and knowledgeable professionals. Melody has a special interest in working with large senior dogs and finds great fulfillment in supporting their mobility and quality of life. Outside of the clinic, she enjoys creating art, playing the drums, and taking road trips. She currently lives in Los Angeles with her boyfriend and their Australian Staghound/Golden Retriever mix, Archie.

Amy Yoshizaki

Veterinary Assistant & Animal Massage Therapist

Amy completed her Veterinary Assistant schooling at Orange County Veterinary Assistant School and as of April 2024, earned her Certification as a Small Animal Massage Therapist from the Ojai School of Canine Massage. Amy is also an in-home care giver for seniors and has a special place in her heart for our senior pets. In her spare time, Amy likes to cook (she makes amazing pasta!), color and crochet. Amy shares her home with Zoey the cockapoo.

Talitha Baumann

Veterinary Assistant

Talitha is new to Veterinary Medicine and has big goals to reach great heights here at CROC. She began as a student intern completing her required clinical hours but quickly proved herself and joined the team as a Veterinary Assistant. She is currently studying to become a Registered Veterinary Technician and upon earning her license, aims to become a Certified Veterinary Rehabilitation Practitioner. Her favorite part of working at CROC is knowing that she is a part of a specialized team of veterinary experts operating at the top of their field and she gets to help make big impacts for the pet families in our community. When she is not at school or CROC, she can also be found working at an OC Veterinary Hospital, performing Irish Dance, or crafting. She is owned by two cats as well as geckos, fish, and a desert tortoise named Chompers.

Nikki

Patient Care Coordinator

Nikki has been in the veterinary field since 2011 and feels very lucky and blessed to have landed here with us at CROC. She knows that times can be tough when our furry friends aren't at their best so her number one goal is to facilitate quality care for our four-legged clients and top-notch communication and support for our two-legged clients. While Nikki is currently owned by a feline furbaby, she is a huge dog-lover and soaks in every second of one on one time with our patients.

Princess Reyes

Patient Care Coordinator

Princess' career working with animals began during COVID when she became an adoption coordinator for a local rescue group, ensuring that animals were adopted to the perfect families. She is currently in school to become a Registered Veterinary Technician and when she is not at CROC, she works in Emergency Veterinary Medicine where she works in Critical Care, Surgery, Cardiology, and Internal Medicine departments. Her favorite thing about working at CROC is the long term relationships built with the patients and their families. She loves to follow their treatment plan and witness their improvements. In her spare time, she likes to cross-stitch, paint by number, reading, and music. She is owned by her Chihuahua/Dachshund, Rosey, and her Poodle/Bully mix, Flurry.

Heidi Tschauner, DVM, CCAT, CAMP

Veterinarian & Rehab Therapist

Dr. Heidi Tschauner graduated with honors from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1991, then continued her education in small animal medicine, surgery, and ultrasonography. After more than 30 years of practice, Dr. Heidi has shifted her focus to rehabilitative medicine to improve recovery and quality of life for animals experiencing mobility issues. She earned her Certification in Companion Animal Rehabilitation Therapy through North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine December 2023. Dr. Heidi is a member of the American, California, and Southern California Veterinary Medical Associations as well as the American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians. She has three feline fur kids, Bodhi-ming, Kelpi, and Sharky. Outside of rehab, Dr. Heidi can be found surfing, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Lauren Brower, DVM, CCAT, CVAT

Veterinarian, Rehab Therapist, & Acupuncturist

A Laguna Beach native, Dr. Lauren Brower graduated from Ohio State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, then went on to become certified in Veterinary Acupuncture in 2008. She enjoys treating patients with an integrative approach, utilizing the best conventional medicine with alternative treatments to allow for a more holistic plan for your pet. When she's not at CROC, Dr. Brower loves riding horses and exploring the outdoors with her family and two dogs, Aggie & Fig.

Katie Fischbach, DVM, CVAT, CCAT

Veterinarian, Rehab Therapist, & Acupuncturist

Growing up in Northern Indiana with dogs, cats, hamsters, birds, and guinea pigs initiated Katie's lifelong respect and admiration for the Human-Animal bond. After graduating from Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, she returned to California and began working in general practice with a focus on reducing patient stress and fear to maximize their benefit from her care. To offer her patients even more support, she became certified in low stress handling and veterinary acupuncture. In 2023, Katie transitioned to hospice care and helping families peacefully say goodbye to their furry friend in the comfort of their own home. In addition to her work in this vital aspect of Veterinary Medicine, she also became CROC's primary acupuncture veterinarian. As of 2025, she became CROC's 5th Certified Rehab Specialist when she completed the CCAT program! Our patients have come to love her for the positive energy and pain relief that she offers them! Her favorite part of working at CROC is helping our patients return to the activities they love.

Tara Haddad, DVM

Veterinarian

Dr. Tara Haddad graduated from Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1997. She completed an Oncology Residency at University of Illinois. Her passion for special needs animals led her to open the first Daycare/Boarding Facility specialized for special needs pets in Orange County. Owning 7 special needs pets at the same time, Dr. Haddad has also been a loyal client to CROC as well as a valued team member. She now shares her home with a young Labrador, Flint, who does not have special needs.... YET!

Miwa Kanbe, DVM, CVAT

Veterinarian & Acupuncturist

With a strong belief in combining holistic medicine with traditional Western practices, Miwa focuses on providing comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional well-being of her patients. She values building strong relationships with her clients, ensuring they feel supported and cared for every step of the way during their treatment journey. Fluent in Japanese, Miwa offers personalized communication in both English and Japanese, ensuring all clients feel comfortable and fully informed. Outside of work, she enjoys recharging with trips to Disneyland, traveling, and spending time with her sweet greyhound mix, Goma, helping her bring renewed energy and compassion to every patient she cares for.

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