For over four decades, Knollwood Hospital for Pets has been a pillar of veterinary care and integrative therapies under the leadership of Dr. Deborah Mitchell. Dr. Mitchell dedicated herself to her practice, and after years of service, she made the decision to sell her practice and transition into semi-retirement.
“It has been an absolute joy, honor, and privilege to serve as your veterinarian for the past forty-one years,” said Dr. Mitchell. “Because of you, I am as passionate about caring for animals today as I was as a 6-year-old in a crumpled and dirty Sunday dress, being scolded by my mom for getting dirty by playing with strange dogs and cats. ‘But Mama!’, I told her, ‘they’re NOT strangers – they’re my friends!’ I have been fortunate to share this passion with you and your pets.”
Dr. Mitchell’s hands the baton to Dr. Cindy Makofski (Dr. Mak), a Partner Doctor with Hometown Veterinary Partners. Dr. Mak was raised in Carol Stream and has been a well-respected veterinarian in the Chicago area and in Southern Wisconsin for many years. “I knew I wanted to become a veterinarian at five years old when my mother gave me an encyclopedia about animals. I read it every night for a bedtime story,” said Dr. Mak.
When looking for a new owner, Dr. Mitchell wanted to find a woman-owned organization focused on empowering veterinarians that would continue to provide exceptional health care for pets. She landed on Hometown Veterinary Partners, a veterinary group that gives veterinary professionals more career options, including a path to partnership. Keri Kamba, Founder and President of Hometown Veterinary Partners, sought to create a structure that supports and empowers doctors to build the career they want, including supporting doctors who otherwise may not be able to retire and sell their practice.
As part of the rebranding effort, the hospital is expanding its hours to include Fridays and Saturdays and will undergo remodeling, culminating in an Open House for clients in 2025. Dr. Mak shared about the improvements, “One change that I am really looking forward to is expanding our treatment area to accommodate the needs of our clients and their pets.”
Dr. Mak also commented, “We aim to improve upon the things you have grown to come to love and continue to serve you with compassion, kindness, dedication, and a wealth of knowledge. Thank you for welcoming us to the community and the opportunity to serve you and your pets!”
For more information about Hometown Veterinary Partners and the new Hometown Veterinary Partners Schaumburg, please visit hometownvetpartners.com.
About Hometown Veterinary Partners
Hometown Veterinary Partners establishes and operates veterinary hospitals that offer exceptional veterinary care that feels like home.