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Business & Tech

10 Questions for Veterinarian Hilary Wheeler

Dr. Wheeler began her career as a child performing 'surgery' on her stuffed animals.

Meet the Owner is a weekly column that features business owners in the town of Los Gatos. Los Gatos Patch asks each owner the same 10 questions every week so the community can get to know the people behind our local businesses.

At her veterinary practice , Dr. Hilary Wheeler’s love of animals comes through in her treatment of her client’s pets. She and her staff provide individualized care for each animal, evaluating the pet’s needs from all angles. That, along with her enjoyment of working with people, makes this Los Gatos veterinary office a welcoming place for you and your pet.

Los Gatos Patch: What did you dream of being as a kid?

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Dr. Hilary Wheeler: A veterinarian, of course. I was an avid reader, and loved the James Herriot novels. I spent hours performing “surgery” on my stuffed animals to repair tears in their fur, missing appendages, lost eye buttons ... I grew up with a house full of family pets and would dress my cat up in doll clothing and parade him down the street in a toy baby stroller. He was a really patient cat.

Patch: How does your personality play into your business?

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Dr. Wheeler: I have always enjoyed interacting with people, and feel that I am open to many different personality types and perspectives on life. Life is a constant work in progress, and there is always more to learn, which helps to motivate me on a daily basis. I enjoy being a leader, while continually learning from my clients, patients and team members—they challenge me to work harder, laugh more, and enjoy the ride.

Patch: At what moment did you decide to open a business?

Dr. Wheeler: Two years ago my husband was laid off after 10 years at a high tech company. I had been working part-time as I juggled my career with raising our two young children. It was truly a life-changing moment, and we were both forced to re-evaluate our goals. My husband has always wanted to start his own business, and I have always dreamt of creating my own veterinary practice. We decided that life was handing us an opportunity, applied for the loans and off we went.

Patch: What inspired you?

Dr. Wheeler: I have always been inspired by my colleagues, my patients, their “people,” and the veterinary staff members I have worked with over the years. I wanted to realize my dream, and create something really special for myself, my patients and the community. My two children have also inspired me. I think it is a wonderful lesson for them to see their mom as a veterinarian and business owner.

Patch: Describe the biggest challenge of owning a business in the town of Los Gatos?

Dr. Wheeler: The permit process was by no means simple or straight-forward, but overall we were very well received by the town and community. Rents are certainly higher than other areas, but the location makes it worthwhile. We’ve had the occasional challenge of working around local events given our location, but we are learning to plan ahead and rearrange our schedule when needed. Los Gatos residents have high expectations, but I feel this is a good thing, and love it when we are able to exceed those expectations.

Patch: Describe the best thing about owning a business in the town of Los Gatos?

Dr. Wheeler: It is a beautiful place to be—just look around. The people are warm and friendly, and I love the combination of great restaurants and shops while maintaining a small town feel. Best of all, Los Gatos is a pet-loving community.

Patch: What is one thing you would never change about your business?

Dr. Wheeler: I love our team of staff members, and hope to maintain the small practice, family feel even as we grow. We now have three doctors, but we work closely together, sharing ideas and giving each other feedback. I also love our location and physical facility, and would never want to relocate.

Patch: What is your business' greatest asset?

Dr. Wheeler: We have an incredible team of dedicated, highly trained professionals who genuinely love what they do. We not only focus on the best care for our patients, but try to care equally for the people they live with as well. We provide an integrative approach to veterinary medicine, combining modern medicine and technology with complementary therapies such as nutrition counseling, acupuncture, chiropractic care and herbal supplements.

Patch: What is your favorite spot in town?

Dr. Wheeler: I love sitting by the fountain in the town center, watching the people go by as I enjoy the trees and fresh air. My children and dogs love it, too.

Patch: What's one thing the community should know about you?

Dr. Wheeler: I love to share my story with people, with the hopes it inspires and motivates them to pursue their own dreams. As challenging as it has been to juggle running a business and striving for excellence in veterinary medicine, while trying to balance work with home life as a mother and wife, I genuinely love what I do. I can’t imagine doing things any other way.

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