AZPetVet Happy Valley Animal Hospital

Dr. Zachary Lahay

Raised in sunny Saint Clair Shores, Michigan, a suburb near Detroit, I had wanted to be a veterinarian since I was four years old. Never having a dog or cat myself growing up, my love of animals developed by visiting family and friends who had them. They are such a significant part of people’s lives and bring so much joy.

I received a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Michigan. Go Blue!! After assisting in lab research with mice during my undergraduate and postgraduate time, I attended Midwestern University, earning my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Some of the areas of veterinary medicine that interest me most are internal medicine, neurology, preventative medicine, and exotic animal medicine—especially for rabbits—as I had two growing up.

When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. Personal hobbies of mine include playing video games, watching every Detroit and U of M sports team, watching different movies/shows (I know too many quotes), and practicing guitar. Outdoor time is great too, but the sun and I have our disagreements.

Dr. Victor Saltzman

I am from a small farm town in southern Nebraska. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from the University of Nebraska. My education in veterinary medicine was completed in 1987 at Iowa State University where I received my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. I moved to Phoenix after graduation and have pursued my career in medicine and surgery since then.

My hobbies include hiking, fishing, off-road adventures, and traveling. My wonderful wife and I have been married for 44 years, and our current pet is a dog named Bently who is my buddy and companion.

Dr. Kaylee Yoshimoto

I was born and raised in colorful Colorado, but have been very fortunate to come to Arizona to be a part of Happy Valley Animal Hospital’s exceptional veterinary team. Ever since I was seven years old I dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. My passion for the human-animal bond lead me to the University of Denver where I obtained a B.S. in Biology. I then went on to get my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Kansas State University in 2011 (Go Cats!). While I love every aspect of veterinary medicine, my personal interests include soft tissue surgery, internal medicine, preventative medicine, and pain management.

Away from the hospital I can be found spending time with my family and friends, reading, or playing video games. I have a Maine Coone mix named Eli that has been a part of my family since my days at DU. It is my belief that the relationship between you and your pets is something to be cherished, and I am privileged to be able to provide the best quality of care for your loved ones.

Dr. Christopher Smith

I am originally from Indianapolis, Indiana and earned an undergraduate degree in Animal Sciences from Purdue University. After deciding the midwest was too cold for me, I went to the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and took my first job as a veterinarian in Las Vegas, NV in 2015. I’m so happy to be joining the Happy Valley family and the Phoenix area seems like a wonderful fit for me. Professionally my interests include managing chronic disease, diagnostic imaging, and senior pet care.

I currently live with my two cats and in my spare time I enjoy cooking, playing video games, and I am currently trying my hand at gardening (with mixed results). I look forward to meeting your pets soon at your next visit!

Dr. Kevin Chen

I was born and raised here in Phoenix, Arizona! I earned my bachelor’s degree in physiology from the University of Arizona. After working as a shelter technician at a humane society in Tucson for over two years, I attended Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine to earn my DVM degree, and attended Texas A&M for my clinical year.

I currently live with my significant other and our terrier mix, Scout. My veterinary interests include preventative medicine, shelter medicine, and dermatology. Outside of the hospital, I enjoy playing video games and watching basketball (Go Phoenix Suns!).

Dr. Irina Sirota

I am originally from Ukraine but moved to the United States as a child and have since moved around quite a bit. I was raised in Syracuse, New York, but my family was desperate to escape the snow which brought me to sunny Los Angeles, California. I grew up with a zoo of pets and always had a passion for science and medicine which sparked my interest in veterinary medicine. I obtained by B.S. in Microbiology at California State University, Northridge and was then accepted to Midwestern University's College of Veterinary Medicine here in Glendale, AZ, where I graduated with my Doctorate in 2020. My personal interests in veterinary medicine include internal medicine, dentistry, preventative care, and shelter medicine.

I currently live at home with my three cats; two domestic short hairs named Simon and Oscar, and a Siamese mix named Lucas. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, hiking, reading, or simply catching up on my favorite shows. I am excited to have started my career at Happy Valley Animal Hospital and am looking forward to getting to know you and your pets!

Dr. Lindsey Elsing

Growing up in rural Wisconsin, I have had a passion for animals since I was a young girl. I attended Edgewood College in Madison, Wisconsin where I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. I went on to complete veterinary school at Ohio State University, graduating in 2020. I am excited to be a part of the wonderful team here at Happy Valley Animal Hospital! My professional interests include dentistry, preventative medicine, and surgery.

In my free time I enjoy reading, hiking with my dog, Blake, and cheering on the Milwaukee Brewers. I look forward to meeting you and your companions!

Dr. Janel Schietzelt

Originally, I’m from Saratoga Springs, New York. I attended Montana State University for undergrad, where I earned my bachelor's degree in conservation biology and ecology while working at a mixed animal practice. While earning my DVM at Washington State University, I worked for the small animal ER/ICU as a technician, a patient coordinator, and an after-hours emergency surgery technician for the small animal soft tissue/ER surgery department. The most rewarding part about being a veterinarian is being able to help foster the human-animal bond. Pets are our family members, and they deserve the absolute best care! I'm so thankful that I get to be a part of that relationship.

At home, I have one dog named Mellie, a rescue Staffordshire Terrier-Boxer mix whose favorite things are sweet potatoes and sunbathing. I also have two cats, Luda and Piper, who have traveled from Montana, to Washington, to Arizona with me and are very happy with all the sunshine! My loving parents reside in upstate New York, and I have four wonderful siblings. I love walking my dog, taking care of my many houseplants, paddle boarding, painting pottery, traveling, and spending time with friends and family!