Our building was originally custom built as a combined Dental Clinic and residence by Dr. Alex and Mrs. Midge Hart in early 1950’s. In 1993, Dr. Cathy Seabrook remodeled and opened the Island Animal Hospital as a practice serving companion animals and horses. Dr. Seabrook and her family lived in the home adjoining the clinic. Pat Wood, RVT joined the team in Dec 1993 and Deb Pardiac, Receptionist came on board in 2001. In 1995 the residential side of the building was rented to a local Accounting firm. In 2009 Dr Mary Yett joined the veterinary team and subsequently purchased the Island Animal Hospital in 2011. Dr Johanne Paquet purchased the Island Animal Hospital in 2014. Dr. Paquet once again renovated the building and moved into the residential side with her husband and two children.
Pat Wood, registered veterinary technician
Pat was born and raised on a farm in Rockville where, from an early age, she loved being around animals. Pat graduated from New Liskeard College with an agriculture diploma in 1988. In 1991 she enrolled in the Veterinary Technician program at St Clair College in Windsor Ontario, graduating in 1993. She completed her registration exam becoming a Registered Veterinary technician and began working at the Island Animal Hospital in December 1993. With 20 years of experience she brings a wealth of knowledge and capability to the clinic. Pat also has 2 horses and is studying natural horsemanship through the Parelli program. Pat also volunteers with the local skating club where one of her 2 children is an avid skater.
Johanne Paquet, veterinarian, owner
Dr. Johanne Paquet was born and raised in Sudbury and spent her childhood summers at the Providence Bay Trailer Park. Johanne graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2003, after having completed a degree in wildlife biology. She built her experience by working at a small animal clinic in Toronto for 5 years and a 24 hour clinic in Brampton for 3 years. She enthusiastically returned to Manitoulin Island in April 2013 then bought the practice in 2014. Her interests include feline medicine and dermatology. Outside of work, Johanne enjoys spending time outdoors with her family. Johanne lives with her husband and 2 children, she shares her home with 2 cats, Buzwah and Cupcake.
Deb Pardiac, Receptionist/bookkeeper
Deb has been working at Island Animal Hospital for over 10 years. She brings with her a background in corporate administration and 19 years in customer service and business management/bookkeeping. Deb currently shares her home with her husband and their three kitties - Smokey and Chester (the former king of the Kagawon dump) & baby Kitty, and has two grand-dogs and one grand-kitty - all rescues. Along with her love for animals, her interests include travelling, snorkeling, gardening and she is an avid reader.
Steve Fisher, Clinic Manager
Steve was born in a small town outside of London Ontario. He grew up on the family farm with many cats and dogs running around. Steve traded in his 20 years of technical background to move to the island with his wife and 2 children. He works collaboratively with the staff to achieve a common goal. His unique and diverse skills enable him to contribute in a variety of roles. Outside of work, Steve enjoys spending time outdoors exploring Manitoulin with his family. Steve lives with his wife, 2 children and 2 cats.
We are committed to serving you and your pets. Our experienced veterinary team will help you understand your pets’ needs and the options available to you in caring for them
Our goal is to help you always make the best choices for the health and welfare of your animal companion. We know what that means - we’re pet owners too.