Meet the RRVH krewe
We are a friendly, compassionate team dedicated to strengthening the human-animal bond.
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We are a friendly, compassionate team dedicated to strengthening the human-animal bond.
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Hi! I’m Dr. Courtney Wheeler, the practice owner of River Road Veterinary Hospital. I’ve dreamt of becoming a veterinarian since I was a child, dressing as a veterinarian to my school’s Career Days and spending as much time as I could with animals until I was able to attend Ross University of Veterinary Medicine. I graduated with High Honors and completed a year of clinical rotations at Colorado State University. I’ve enhanced my patient care by becoming certified in Veterinary Medical Acupuncture – Ask me about this therapy at your next visit!
In 2022, I was able to make my dream a reality with the purchase of River Road Veterinary Hospital and have been working diligently to refresh and progress our already wonderfully established practice with the most innovative and progressive veterinary medicine available.
My husband Chase and I welcomed our sweet baby boy, Carver, into our family in 2022. We live with our beloved yellow labs, Cadeaux and Cheerio, and our kitties, Millie and Minnie. I spend my free time with friends and family, out in the New Orleans local community, and also love equestrian sports, particularly show-jumping, with my beloved horse, Daisy!
On a personal note, I would like to thank our incredible clients for supporting Chase and I in this time of growth. As a New Orleans native, I’m thrilled to pursue my goals in providing our community with top-tier veterinary care. Together with our family partnered business, Pawlins, I believe we are bettering the lives of pets and their people.
Hey y’all! My name is Dr. Ben Brignac and I’ve had the privilege of practicing at RRVH since 2019. Growing up here in New Orleans, I spent my summers volunteering at a local animal rescue and working as a veterinary assistant until traveling to St. Kitts and attending Ross University of Veterinary Medicine and completing my clinical rotation at Colorado State University to receive my doctorate in veterinary medicine.
I enjoy community events, spending time with my dog Hazel, practicing yoga, traveling, Mardi Gras, and Saints football! Working with animals has been a passion of mine from a young age and I feel blessed to have made my aspiration to become a veterinarian a reality. It is incredibly rewarding to have the opportunity to help pets live their happiest, healthiest lives. Every day I appreciate getting to know my clients and witnessing the positive impact we can make on the bond they share with their pet. I’m proud to practice here at RRVH and hope to meet you and your pet soon!
Hello! I’m Dr. John Trahan. I was born here in New Orleans and grew up in Metairie. Growing up, I was always an animal lover and especially loved to visit the animals at the zoo. After getting my Animal Science degree at LA Tech, I went on to complete my veterinary degree at LSU’s School of Veterinary Medicine in 2016. I then moved to Phoenix, AZ, for a small animal internship, and stayed there until I moved back home to Louisiana in 2022.
I enjoy all aspects of veterinary medicine and have a special interest in soft tissue surgery, dermatology, and internal medicine. More than that, I truly value building relationships with my patients and their families. I love getting to know each animal’s personality and quirks, and I take pride in being able to provide compassionate care to them throughout their lives.
When I’m not working, you’ll find me hanging out with my wife, Ankitha, and our dog, Ruxin. He’s the best of boys! I also love spending time outdoors – whether it’s fishing, hunting, or traveling. I’ve been practicing my cooking skills lately (and the eating skills too, of course!) I’m a huge sports fan and love playing all kinds of sports, as well as cheering on my favorite teams – like the Saints, Pelicans, and LSU. I root for all Louisiana teams I see!
In the Spring of 2023, I joined the team at RRVH. I look forward to growing with this amazing hospital and caring for your pets!
At the heart of River Road Veterinary Hospital’s operations is our esteemed Chief Cat Operator, Lily. With her keen eye for detail and unparalleled expertise in lounging, Lily ensures that every corner of our clinic meets the highest standards of comfort and care.
Lily’s journey with us began with a diagnosis of diabetes. But, like the true boss she is, Lily took this challenge in stride. With a revamped diet and a newfound zest for a healthier lifestyle, she not only tackled her diabetes but sent it packing into remission. Her weight loss journey is nothing short of inspirational, proving that a little determination (and a lot of naps) can go a long way.
When she’s not busy overseeing clinic operations, Lily enjoys sourcing the most optimal rays of sunshine, curating an impressive collection of toys, and selflessly sharing her beautiful fur with anyone who may wish to wear it.
Don’t let Lily’s sweet nature and gentle spirit fool you; she is a tough-leader! Lily demands punctuality from her staff at RRVH, most especially when it’s meal time. In her own unique and endearing way, Lily embodies the spirit of our clinic, leaving a paw print of excellence on everything we do.
Chase, known around RRVH as the ‘Boss Man,’ may have a serious demeanor, but those who know him well see the big heart and goofy sense of humor beneath. He’s the kind of leader who strikes the perfect balance between fairness and flexibility, creating a respectful and professional atmosphere in our clinic. We have one very important rule: every golden retriever or lab puppy that comes through our doors gets cuddled by Chase – it’s a duty he takes very seriously!
A true food enthusiast, Chase’s love language is undoubtedly a delicious meal. The team looks forward to the days when he treats us to his home-cooked specialties, turning our workplace into a warm, family-like gathering. He’s not just about work, though; Chase is an avid sports enthusiast. Whether he’s playing rugby, organizing our staff’s fantasy football league, or getting everyone excited about the March Madness contest, he brings his competitive spirit and fun to everything he does.
As Dr. Courtney’s husband, Chase is not just a leader of our team, but the bedrock of the RRVH family. Together, they are a dynamic duo, dedicated to creating a joyful workplace and a gold-standard veterinary clinic. At home, their life is enriched by their baby boy, Carver, and their beloved pets – Cadeaux and Cheerio, the Labradors, and the kitties amusingly referred to by Chase as Black Cat and Gray Cat.
Chase is the main coordinator of the business and our relationship with Pawlins; handling everything with utmost professionalism. His dedication is evident in every aspect of the clinic, from the exceptional care we provide to our patients to the nurturing environment we create for our team. Chase’s unique blend of humor, culinary skills, and professional excellence makes RRVH not just a clinic, but a home away from home for both staff and pets alike.
Matt isn’t just the lead tech at RRVH; he’s right at the heart of our operations, known for his ability to skillfully navigate any challenge that comes his way. His role as “Mr. Fix-it” goes beyond just equipment – he’s the person we all rely on, whether it’s a complex procedure or a need for a quick morale boost. Walk through our clinic, and you’ll often hear calls for “Maattt,” a testament to his indispensability and the respect he’s earned from everyone.
At home, Matt’s world is filled with love and laughter, shared with his wife Stef, and their child, along with their fur family members Ryder the Golden Retriever, and Swiss Roll the cat. Each brings a unique joy to his life, fueling his passion for animal welfare.
Clients appreciate Matt’s exceptional care and expertise, often requesting him specifically for their pets’ needs. His approachability and skill make him a favorite among our clientele.
What Matt treasures most about working in veterinary medicine is the opportunity to be part of the healing journey of animals and to positively impact the lives of their human families. His presence at RRVH is more than just professional; it’s personal. With a joke always ready and stories that captivate, Matt transforms every workday into an experience akin to spending time with a great friend, making RRVH not just a clinic, but a community.
In her dynamic role, Jen oversees front-of-house operations and client relations, while ensuring the hospital’s aesthetic is lookin’ good both in-person and online. Jen’s experience as a veterinary assistant enriches her role in sculpting our digital and community presence, branding, and interior design. She also coordinates RRVH’s community events and is a firm believer in fostering a work environment where joy and professionalism go hand-in-hand.
Passionate about celebrating the team, Jen helps make each birthday, holiday, and professional recognition day memorable for the staff.
Outside of work, Jen’s life is shared with her husband Chris, and their pet family: Maple, Lucille, Stevens, Cookies, Green Phillip, and Tonka.
Her driving force in vet-med lies in the opportunity to provide compassionate care for pets. Her passion for making a difference in the lives of animals and their families remains the heart of her professional journey.
Madison, a vibrant and intelligent member of our RRVH team, brings both knowledge and fun to our clinic every day. With a background in pre-vet and medical studies, she’s our go-to expert on surgical instruments, ensuring our veterinarians have everything they need for successful procedures.
Her bond with our clinic cat, Lily, is something special – they’re often seen on little field trips or enjoying sleepovers, a testament to Madison’s loving nature. Louie, her own dog, is another cherished companion in her life.
Madison’s enthusiasm for learning is infectious. Whether she’s studying cytologies or observing surgical techniques, she’s always eager to absorb new information. Her fun-loving spirit is a breath of fresh air in the clinic, often lightening the mood with her banter with the boss or by turning on some party music in the back.
What Madison loves most about working in veterinary medicine is the joy of meeting puppies and kittens and watching them grow through all stages of life. Her passion for animal care and her commitment to making the clinic a lively, enjoyable place makes her a beloved and invaluable member of the RRVH family.
Tori is a vital member of our RRVH team, known for her kindness and dedication. She’s often seen alongside Dr. Courtney, where her reliable and attentive nature shines, making her an indispensable part of the care team.
She’s one you’ll find quietly chuckling at a cat meme one minute, and then diving into action the next. Tori’s the kind of person who might not realize how amazing she is, but we sure do. Tori’s animal family includes Koda, her beautiful Chow mix and Chuck and O’Malley, her beloved cats.
What Tori loves most about her job is simple but powerful – helping our furry patients on their way to feeling better. Whether it’s a reassuring cuddle in the treatment room or ensuring an anxious pet parent knows their fur baby is in safe hands, Tori’s heart is in every gesture. She’s one of the unsung heroes who make RRVH not just a clinic, but a place where every pet is treated like our own.
Lyi is the heart and soul of our front desk at RRVH. Her role as our lead CSR and the mentor for new receptionists is infused with the warmth and familiarity of an old friend. Her big, infectious laugh is a signature part of our day, bringing a sense of joy and ease to both the team and clients alike.
She shares her world with her family and their Boxer, Maggie. Together, they create a lively and loving home environment, reflective of the care and enthusiasm Lyi brings to our practice every day.
Lyi thrives on building lasting relationships with our clients and their pets. She finds immense satisfaction in following up on our patients’ progress, and nothing makes her day more than hearing about pets who are on the mend thanks to our care. Her genuine interest in each patient’s well-being and her ability to remember the subtlest details about our clients’ lives make her an invaluable part of the RRVH family.
Abby is the sharp and quick-thinking anchor of our team at RRVH. As our senior vet assistant, she’s a master of multitasking, always keeping us on track with her intelligent approach and efficient organization. Her ability to learn quickly and adapt to any situation makes her an invaluable asset to our team.
Clients adore Abby for her professional yet warm demeanor, and she’s known for her gentle touch that seems to calm even the most anxious of pets. Whether she’s running our lab/pharmacy or assisting in treatments, Abby does it all with a grace and competence that’s truly inspiring.
At home, Abby’s world is brightened by her two dogs, Lala and Zasha. Her bond with them is a testament to her deep love for animals.
Abby’s favorite part of working in veterinary medicine? It’s the opportunity to bond with our patients and play a pivotal role in helping them recover. She finds great joy in seeing them return to their happy, healthy selves, a mission that she dedicates herself to each day at RRVH.
Emilie is a helping hand in our treatment room at RRVH, known for her dry wit and peaceful presence. She quickly becomes a friend to all, both two-legged and four-legged. Her passion for equine sports is a big part of her life, and you’ll often hear about her weekends spent at the rodeo where she’s winning ribbons with her beloved horses.
In her personal life, Emilie is surrounded by a diverse and beloved animal family. Mocha, her goat; Malibu and Kiwi, her cats; and Frost and Streak, her horses, all play a significant role in her life.
Emilie’s unique talent lies in her ability to connect with cats, earning her the title of our go-to cat whisperer. This skill, combined with her passion for animals, makes her an invaluable member of our team.
Her favorite part of working in veterinary medicine is having the opportunity to help as many animals as possible and positively impact the lives of pet owners. Emilie’s commitment to animal welfare and her ability to form meaningful connections with pets and their owners truly make a difference at RRVH.
Zoe brings a unique blend of expertise and enthusiasm to RRVH, thanks to her background in helping with husbandry and training of service dogs. This experience has given her a profound understanding of animal behavior and needs, making her a wonderful asset to our vet care team.
Bubbly and full of life, Zoe shines in her work ethic and compassion for both her human and animal colleagues. She’s a quick and confident learner, always ready to delegate tasks efficiently, ensuring everything in the clinic runs smoothly.
Her animal family includes Sage, a loving chocolate Lab; Zayne, a spirited toy Aussie; and Finn, her clever kitty. Each of them holds a special place in her heart and life, contributing to her deep love for all animals.
Zoe’s favorite aspect of working in veterinary medicine is creating a bond with each animal that comes through our doors. She is passionate about making every visit a positive experience, believing in the healing power of an animal’s love. Her commitment to ensuring that pets are safe and healthy so they can be the best companions possible is a testament to her dedication to patient care at RRVH.
Kirsten is an important part of the front desk team! Our clients are greeted with Kirsten’s welcoming demeanor, making every visit to RRVH a pleasant experience. She has a natural talent for making both humans and animals feel at ease, adding a touch of warmth to every interaction.
At home, Kirsten shares her life with her family and their pups Bruno and Rocky. Her bond with her own pets deepens her understanding and compassion for all the animals that come through our doors.
Kirsten’s favorite aspect of working in veterinary medicine is the opportunity to get to know our clients and their pets. She delights in building these relationships, contributing to the friendly and caring atmosphere that defines RRVH.
Breane joined the RRVH krewe in April 2024, bringing with her a sharp intellect and a proactive approach to veterinary care.
She’s not only quick to learn but also deeply committed to advocating for her patients’ well-being. When she’s not at the clinic, you’ll likely find her with her Great Pyrenees pup, Kano.
What drives her to the veterinary field? A genuine passion for enhancing the lives of pets and their families! Breane’s blend of expertise and empathy ensures that every patient receives top-notch care at RRVH.
Joining our team with a warm heart and an ever-curious mind, Brooke is one of our newest veterinary assistants at River Road Veterinary Hospital. Her journey in veterinary medicine is fueled by a genuine passion for animal welfare, a path she began in animal rescue. This experience not only honed her skills but also deepened her compassion for our four-legged friends.
Brooke’s sidekick in life is Sweet Pea, a spirited Husky mix, who is as much a part of her journey as her love for vet med. What excites Brooke the most about working in veterinary medicine is the diversity of each day – the constant learning and the new challenges that come with each patient. Her kind-hearted nature and eagerness to absorb knowledge make her a valued member of our team.
Brooke is a testament to our commitment to compassionate, top-tier care for your pets. Every day, she brings her big heart and sharp mind to ensure your furry family members receive the best care possible.
Harlow is the man who keeps our facilities looking great and running smoothly at both Pawlins and RRVH. He’s our maintenance supervisor and a real pro at fixing things and keeping our place looking sharp. With his easy-going style and his favorite New Orleans saying “yea you right,” he’s a beloved figure around here.
Harlow’s not just good with his tools; he’s a friendly face that makes our days better. Whether he’s fixing a leak or sprucing up the grounds, Harlow does it all with a smile.
Thanks to Harlow, our buildings are always in great shape. His hard work lets us focus on taking care of the animals, and we couldn’t be happier to have him as part of our team.
