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Our Team

Our caring and compassionate veterinary care team.

Meet the Veterinarians & Team of Country Doctor Veterinary Hospital in New Tripoli. We’re pleased to provide exceptional vet care for your pets.

Please call us at 610-298-2520 to speak to one of our caring veterinary staff members.

Veterinarian/Owner

Dr. Kim Kish V.M.D

Dr. Kish is a 1994 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Kish, a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 1994, has been a valuable member of the Country Doctor Veterinary Hospital since January 2002. With expertise in the PennHip Radiographic technique, she aims to minimize the occurrence of hip dysplasia in animals. Dr. Kish is actively involved in professional organizations such as the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association and the American Veterinary Medical Association.

In 2021, she and Dr. Trexler-Wertman took over ownership of Country Doctor Veterinary Hospital from Dr. Visintainer, marking a new chapter in their careers. Outside of her veterinary work, Dr. Kish finds joy in various hobbies including gardening, playing hand bells, playing the piano, and exploring different destinations through travel.

Veterinarian/Owner

Dr. Kelly Trexler-Wertman D.V.M., C.C.R.P.

Dr. Trexler-Wertman began her career at the Country Doctor in 1990.

Dr. Trexler-Wertman embarked on her career at the Country Doctor in 1990 and has since held various positions at the Hospital as she pursued her education. After graduating from Temple University in 1996, she continued her studies in Biology at Villanova University while preparing for veterinary college. In May 2004, she obtained her veterinary medicine degree from Louisiana State University and promptly returned to practice at the Country Doctor. In 2015, she earned her certification for Canine Rehabilitation from The University of Tennessee. Beyond her dedication to veterinary medicine, Dr. Trexler-Wertman finds joy in her two sons, gardening, participating in family sports, and cherishing her beloved pets.
Veterinarian

Dr. Ferdinand Visintainer V.M.D

Dr. Visintainer is a 1985 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Visintainer graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 1985. He joined the Country Doctor Veterinary Hospital in 1988 and then formed a partnership with Dr. James Langman, the original owner, the following year. Dr. Langman retired in 2001. In 2021, Dr. Visintainer sold his share of the practice to his partners, Dr. Kim Kish and Dr. Kelly Trexler-Wertman. He continues to practice at the hospital on a part-time basis.

Dr. Visintainer is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Pennsylvania Medical Association. He has also served on the board of trustees for the Pennsylvania Medical Association.

Veterinarian

Dr. Hilary Palmeiro V.M.D

Dr. Palmeiro grew up in Bethlehem, PA and Cumberland, MD.

Dr. Palmeiro grew up in Bethlehem, PA and Cumberland, MD. She graduated from University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Science in 2000, followed by a veterinary degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 2005. She practiced small animal medicine in New Jersey and Delaware before returning to Pennsylvania joining Country Doctor in 2013. Dr. Palmeiro enjoys working with dogs, cats and all sorts of small animals. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, cycling and hiking.
Veterinarian

Dr. Catherine Illuzzi D.V.M

Dr Illuzzi grew up in western New Jersey on a hobby sheep farm

Dr. Illuzzi's passion for working with animals began during her childhood on a hobby sheep farm in western New Jersey. This early experience ignited her love for animals, leading her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.

After completing her undergraduate degree at Loyola College in Maryland in 2008, Dr. Illuzzi enrolled in Ross University Veterinary School on the picturesque island of St. Kitts in the Caribbean. She successfully completed her clinical year training at Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine and graduated from Ross University in 2012.

For eight years prior to starting at the Country Doctor, Dr. Illuzzi was living and practicing veterinary medicine at a small animal clinic in northern Maryland. However, a desire to be closer to her family and friends prompted her decision to relocate to Pennsylvania. In May 2022, she joined CDVH, bringing her wealth of experience and expertise to the practice.
Dr. Illuzzi's professional interests lie in geriatric care & urgent care, as well as feline medicine. She is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to her patients.

Outside of work, Dr. Illuzzi enjoys soaking up the sunshine while reading with her beloved cat, Stormy. She also finds joy in baking, hiking, and exploring both local and distant travel destinations.

With her knowledge and genuine love for animals, Dr. Illuzzi is a valuable addition to the CDVH team.

Veterinarian

Dr. Kelly Gruber D.V.M

Dr. Gruber joined the Country Doctor in 2016 as a technician

Dr. Gruber joined Country Doctor in 2016 as a Technician Assistant. Throughout her time at the hospital, she held various positions while pursuing her education. In 2018, she successfully obtained a bachelor's degree in Small Animal Science from Delaware Valley University. Driven by her passion for veterinary medicine, she continued her studies at The University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 2022. This marked her transition from a technician to a fully-fledged veterinarian at Country Doctor.
Aside from her professional pursuits, Dr. Gruber finds joy in physical activities such as running, hiking, and working out. She also shares her home with two adorable cats. One of them is Benji, who was adopted shortly after she started working at Country Doctor. The other cat, Reaper, came to the practice as a stray and unfortunately had to undergo a leg amputation. Despite this setback, Reaper has found a loving home with Dr. Gruber.
Business Manager

Madeleine

I am proud to have been part of the Country Doctor for 35 years.

I am proud to have been part of the Country Doctor for 35 years. I first worked with Dr. Langman and Dr. Visintainer at another veterinary hospital 40 years ago. When Dr. Visintainer left to work with Dr. Langman at his practice in Orefield, I soon followed. I started my career at the front desk and enjoyed getting to know our clients and their pets. As time moved on and I started a family I began to do more of the behind the scenes work and eventually grew into the role of business manager. I have seen our practice grow from a staff of 4 in a small facility to a staff of 25 in the larger, better equipped facility we have today. I have learned so much and been very lucky to work with such kind, caring individuals.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband and my dogs. I have two Scottish deerhounds, Wiggins and Lark. Lark and I participate in obedience and conformation and we all enjoy walks in the woods and the fields around our home. They often come to work with me and are happy to hang in the office.

Senior Technician, Rehabilitation Technician

Jill

Jill graduated with honors from the Lehigh Carbon Community College

Jill, a dedicated and accomplished individual, graduated from Lehigh Carbon Community College in 1999, earning an Associates in Applied Science degree. With a passion for veterinary care, she began her career in this field in 1996 and joined The Country Doctor in April 1998. Currently serving as the Laboratory Supervisor, Jill's expertise is further highlighted by her certification as a PennHp Associate member and her completion of the Rehabilitation Program at the University of Tennessee, where she became a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner.

In addition to her veterinary professional endeavors, she manages her family’s investment properties. In her leisure time she enjoys her adventures with her friends such as road trips, kayaking & clay target shooting.

Front Desk Supervisor

Tara

Tara is our front desk supervisor.

Tara is our front desk supervisor. She has been with the Country Doctor family since 2003. She is loves her family and enjoys spending time with her husband and two amazing daughters. Tara has found the perfect pair of pups. Winston and Willow are very photogenic and brings much joy and laughter to her family. When not spending time with family you can find her curled up with a good book. She has been with the practice for over 20 years and her smiling face is a welcome sight to our clients.
Senior Technician, Surgery Technician

Stephanie

Stephanie is one of our senior veterinary technicians having been with the practice since 2012.

Stephanie, a dedicated and experienced member of our team, has been serving as one of our senior Veterinary Technicians since 2012. With a Bachelor's degree in Veterinary Technology, she possesses a strong foundation of knowledge and expertise in her field. Not only does she excel at her job, but she also finds joy in the company of her beloved cats - Figgy, Bungalow Bill, Scuttlebutt (as shown in the picture above), The Governor, and Agent Orange. Stephanie's passion for animals extends beyond her personal life, as she is always eager to lend a helping hand to any creature in need. With her wealth of knowledge and compassionate nature, she consistently proves to be an invaluable asset to our team.
Front Desk Supervisor

Amy

Amy has been a part of Country Doctor since 2013.

Amy joined Country Doctor in 2013 and has since risen from being a Client Service Representative to becoming a Front Desk Supervisor. Outside of work, she and her mother dedicate their weekends to transporting animals from the South to various rescues and fosters, showcasing their compassion for animals. Amy, along with her husband and their 3 dogs, have a deep love for the outdoors. They indulge in activities like four-wheeling, snowmobiling, camping, and are always open to trying new adventures. While Amy used to be an avid equestrian, she unfortunately experienced the loss of her beloved horse in 2020.
Senior Technician, Surgery Technician

Rachel

Rachel joined the Country Doctor in May 2016 as a Certified Veterinary Technician.

Rachel joined the Country Doctor in May 2016 as a Certified Veterinary Technician. Graduating in 2014 from LCCC Veterinary Technician Program. She lives locally with her husband, 3 children and a cuddle of pets, a greyhound named Mack, a beagle mix named Saylor and three cats-Lu, Ravioli and Kitty Purry. In addition there are three parakeets Bluu, Greene and Greyy. In her free time, she enjoys listening to music, summer trips to the beach and most importantly spending time with her family. In the words of Rachel herself – GO PHILLIES!
Technician Supervisor

Kati

Kati is our technician supervisor and she joined the Country Doctor in 2016.

Kati is our technician supervisor and she joined the Country Doctor in 2016. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Small Animal Science from Delaware Valley University. She loves hunting with her husband and walking the trails with her two sweet daughters and their two canine companions, Lucy the black lab and Tucker the Cavalier.
Senior Technician, Surgery Technician

Brittany

Brittany is our go to for all questions about medications. She is a Certified Pharmacy Technician since 2015

Brittany is our go to for all questions about medications. She is a Certified Pharmacy Technician since 2015 and a Certified Veterinary Technician since 2014. Brittany and her husband are passionate about adopting cats with a focus on the specials needs cats. They currently have 2 special needs cats amongst their 14 cats! Besides her cuddle of cats, Brittany has three mice, one hamster, a Red Eared Slider Turtle and Ball Python. She loves to go antiquing, and collecting antique Veterinary collectibles including books, medicine bottles, equipment and tools.
Surgery Technician

Ray

Rachel or Ray as she is known by the staff, has been a veterinary technician with the practice

Rachel or Ray as she is known by the staff, has been a veterinary technician with the practice since graduating from LCCC in 2018. She loves the outdoors and enjoys camping, hiking, kayaking. She grew up on a small farm with beef cattle, sheep and goats. Ray is well acquainted with early mornings and hard work.
Client Service Representative

Sabra

Sabra has been our resident nerd since 2021.

Sabra, our resident nerd since 2021, hails from both Alaska and the West Coast. She is currently taking a break from her bachelors in English and deciding if she chould change majors into computer science. With her extensive knowledge of computers, she has become known as the go-to person when technical issues arise. Additionally, Sabra's passion for all things Disney is evident, as she is a devoted enthusiast.

At home, Sabra shares her space with two feline companions. Endy Isis Romero, a long-haired diluted Calico, and Cosmos Dresden Anubis Romero, a black cat who was rescued and brought to CDVH at just 3 weeks old. In her leisure time, Sabra indulges in activities such as cross stitching, video gaming with her boyfriend, and engaging in the fantasy world of Dungeons and Dragons.

Not only is Sabra a lover of Disney and cats, but she also has a deep appreciation for language and linguistics. In fact, she is currently working on mastering her fifth language. Her dedication to expanding her linguistic repertoire speaks to her passion for communication and understanding different cultures.

Technician Assistant

Sonya

Mandy Hogan is a dedicated veterinary technician assistant with a strong passion for hands-on training.

Mandy Hogan is a dedicated veterinary technician assistant with a strong passion for hands-on training. Although she already possesses valuable experience, she is actively working towards obtaining her certification in the near future. Mandy's interests extend beyond her professional life, as she enjoys spending time outdoors, engaging in activities such as camping, skiing, and visiting the beach.
Originally from Virginia, Mandy comes from a close-knit family, having been born and raised there. Interestingly, she has a twin sister who currently resides in Charleston, South Carolina. In fact, Mandy herself lived in Charleston for seven years, during which she acquired her technician training by working at three different veterinary clinics. This diverse experience has greatly enriched her skillset and knowledge in the field.

In addition to her dedication to animal care, Mandy is a proud pet parent to two adorable dogs. Luna, a lively maltipoo, and Ranger, a charming English cream retriever, bring joy and companionship to Mandy's life.

Technician

Erin

Erin recently graduated with an A.A.S Veterinary Technician Certificate from LCCC in 2022.

Erin, a recent graduate of LCCC in 2022, obtained her A.A.S Veterinary Technician Certificate. During her externship, she discovered that Country Doctor was the ideal starting point for her Certified Veterinary Technician career. Apart from her professional aspirations, Erin finds joy in spending quality time with her large family, consisting of her parents and three siblings. In addition, she is a proud pet owner of a German Shepherd named Lily, a Pit Bull named Bandit, and a small flock of chickens. Erin's passion for horseback riding is evident, and she also has a talent for baking delicious treats.
Client Service Representative

Sonya

Sonya was a client of the Country Doctor for many years before she joined the Country Doctor team in 2023.

Sonya, a long-time client of the Country Doctor, became a valued member of the Country Doctor family in 2023. With her expertise as a Basic Canine Obedience Trainer and a Tellington TTouch Companion Animal Certified Practitioner, she is dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing and behavior of animals. Sonya's passion for learning extends to anything that can benefit the physical and mental health of animals. Outside of her work, she enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors with her beloved 11-year-old Vizsla named Cosmo. Sonya is truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Country Doctor family, as it aligns perfectly with her love for animals.