Veterinarians
Dr. Jeff Dand - Owner/Operator as of 2017
Dr. Jeff Dand graduated from the Atlantic Veterinary College in 1997, after which he spent a year in Florida, focussing on medicine and behaviour, one of his key interests to this day. He then moved to Calgary, where he worked in emergency medicine before opening his first private practice. With a focus on quality care and compassion, he has since expanded to four clinics in both Calgary and Victoria, as well as the world-class Springbank Pet Resort. Dr. Dand has always been passionate about creating a stress-free environment for pets, and after 20 years of clinical practice, is happy that he can now pursue this approach to veterinary care with our teams.
Now living in Victoria, where he and his family enjoy the wonderful climate and community to be found here, he is excited to begin practicing at our clinics. His two rescue dogs, Coco and Rocco love exploring the beaches and parks around town, and their cat Bandit holds down the fort at home as the resident leader of the group. Dr. Dand and his wife have been honoured to work with so many wonderful pets and owners in the clinics over the years and are now hoping to expand their commitment to the pet-loving community in Victoria and be of service in a larger context.
Now living in Victoria, where he and his family enjoy the wonderful climate and community to be found here, he is excited to begin practicing at our clinics. His two rescue dogs, Coco and Rocco love exploring the beaches and parks around town, and their cat Bandit holds down the fort at home as the resident leader of the group. Dr. Dand and his wife have been honoured to work with so many wonderful pets and owners in the clinics over the years and are now hoping to expand their commitment to the pet-loving community in Victoria and be of service in a larger context.
Dr. Kevin Hunt
Dr. Kevin Hunt graduated from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon in 2013. After graduation, Kevin worked in a small animal clinic in Airdrie, Alberta for 4 years. He returned to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine where he taught small animal dentistry and elective surgery to third and fourth year students. Prior to coming to James Bay Veterinary Clinic he spent 2 years at a feline only practice.
Kevin's top areas of professional interest are dentistry and feline medicine. Outside of the clinic he enjoys SCUBA diving and taking his dog for a hop by the ocean.
Dr. Rachel Turecki
Dr. Turecki is originally from Vancouver, BC. Ever since she was little she knew she wanted to be a Veterinarian (cliche, right?). Rachel felt a certain bond with animals that she couldn’t quite explain and knew she wanted to be involved with their health and well being. In high school, Rachel developed a love for science, which only strengthened her determination of becoming a veterinarian. After school, Rachel took time off to travel and this is where she met her amazing husband.
Dr. Turecki attended the Ross School of Vet Medicine in the Caribbean and completed her veterinary degree at the age of 31. As part of this program, students complete their final clinical year at an affiliated school, Rachel chose to attend WCVM in Saskatoon. From there, she chose to join the amazing team at James Bay Veterinary clinic.
Rachel has learned so much throughout her years as a student, meeting mentors along the way that inspired and motivated her, but she knows she has so much more to learn and she looks forward to the next adventure ahead.
Dr. Turecki attended the Ross School of Vet Medicine in the Caribbean and completed her veterinary degree at the age of 31. As part of this program, students complete their final clinical year at an affiliated school, Rachel chose to attend WCVM in Saskatoon. From there, she chose to join the amazing team at James Bay Veterinary clinic.
Rachel has learned so much throughout her years as a student, meeting mentors along the way that inspired and motivated her, but she knows she has so much more to learn and she looks forward to the next adventure ahead.
Dr. James Wenzel
Dr. James Wenzel is a dedicated veterinarian who joined the James Bay Veterinary Clinic team in November 2024. He has many years of experience in the veterinary field since graduation from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2010. He practiced companion animal medicine for several years in the Victoria area before moving into the pet nutrition industry where he gained valuable insights into canine and feline nutrition - as Hippocrates said, “Let food by thy medicine”. Beyond his passion for pet food, he has interests in the management of medical conditions, evidence based medicine, and strives to enhance the well-being of his patients throughout all life stages. Known for his amiable demeanor and thorough approach, Dr. Wenzel believes in empowering pet owners through education.
While he currently has no pets of his own, he has cared for dogs and cats for most of his life and is a firm believer in the mutual benefits of the human-animal bond. Outside the clinic, he enjoys a wonderful life with his partner, taking advantage of everything downtown Victoria has to offer. Dr. Wenzel is also an avid fitness enthusiast, active in many different activities and sports he can rarely be found idling! His passion for animal welfare and commitment to the profession shines through, and he hopes to continue being a trusted resource for pet owners for years to come.
While he currently has no pets of his own, he has cared for dogs and cats for most of his life and is a firm believer in the mutual benefits of the human-animal bond. Outside the clinic, he enjoys a wonderful life with his partner, taking advantage of everything downtown Victoria has to offer. Dr. Wenzel is also an avid fitness enthusiast, active in many different activities and sports he can rarely be found idling! His passion for animal welfare and commitment to the profession shines through, and he hopes to continue being a trusted resource for pet owners for years to come.
Registered Veterinary Technologists
Ej
E.J. is a passionate Registered Veterinary Technologist with over 5 years of experience in veterinary care. After graduating from Olds College in 2019, he joined a very busy mixed practice clinic in Central Alberta, gaining lots of experience in lots of different species from rabbits to horses. He joined James Bay Vet in the summer of 2023.
With special interests in areas such as anesthesia, emergency care, diagnostic imaging, and dentistry, E.J. is dedicated to ensuring the health and well-being of every animal he encounters. He excels at building strong relationships with clients, educating them about their pets' needs, and providing compassionate support during visits.
Outside of work, E.J. enjoys photography, watching sports, and spending time with his family. E.J. is committed to continuous learning in the field and is excited to contribute to the ongoing care and happiness of animals.
With special interests in areas such as anesthesia, emergency care, diagnostic imaging, and dentistry, E.J. is dedicated to ensuring the health and well-being of every animal he encounters. He excels at building strong relationships with clients, educating them about their pets' needs, and providing compassionate support during visits.
Outside of work, E.J. enjoys photography, watching sports, and spending time with his family. E.J. is committed to continuous learning in the field and is excited to contribute to the ongoing care and happiness of animals.
Rachel
Rachel is a dedicated veterinary technician with over six years of experience. A graduate from the veterinary technician program at the University of Guelph, she has a special interest in emergency medicine and exotic animals. Rachel is passionate about providing high quality care and support to a diverse range of patients. She enjoys volunteering and educating pet owners.
Outside of her professional life, Rachel enjoys practicing mixed martial arts, playing soccer, spending time with her animals, and diving into a good book.
Outside of her professional life, Rachel enjoys practicing mixed martial arts, playing soccer, spending time with her animals, and diving into a good book.
Grace - Veterinary Technologist Student
Grace is pictured here with her best friend Murphy. Born with a passion and love for animals, and now living her dream of having a career dedicated to improving the lives of pets all over Victoria. Grace spends her free time with friends and loved ones, hiking local trails, and pursuing my other passions, like art and cooking. Her favourite part of being a Veterinary Assistant is helping to create happy and healthy lives for our furry friends.
Support Staff
Kayt
Kayt has been a James Bay local for over twenty years. A life-long animal lover, she joined our team in 2019 and quickly became a fixture in the clinic for many of our clients. You’ve most likely seen her around town, walking one of James Bay’s numerous Black Russian Terriers, her (big!) puppy, Mishka, with her husband. Back home is Lore, a Maine Coon helping raise up Mishka, and a little school of fish. Kayt is passionate about help you and your pet get the best, most compassionate care possible, and looks forward to seeing you and your pets in the clinic.
Kayt has been a James Bay local for over twenty years. A life-long animal lover, she joined our team in 2019 and quickly became a fixture in the clinic for many of our clients. You’ve most likely seen her around town, walking one of James Bay’s numerous Black Russian Terriers, her (big!) puppy, Mishka, with her husband. Back home is Lore, a Maine Coon helping raise up Mishka, and a little school of fish. Kayt is passionate about help you and your pet get the best, most compassionate care possible, and looks forward to seeing you and your pets in the clinic.
Bev
Bev moved to Canada from the city of Brighton in the South East of England 23 years ago with her husband and daughter. They lived in Calgary, Alberta for 16 years and moved to Victoria 7 years ago. Bev loves living and working in James Bay, getting to know herfluffy neighbours and taking advantage of the parks and ocean side walks.
Lori
Lori is new to the veterinary industry. She moved to Victoria from Toronto, where she studied and worked in fashion marketing. She grew up on a farm in rural Saskatchewan where she worked with all kinds of farm animals. Her family home always had pet dogs, cats and two sheep. She has been a doggie foster parent. At James Bay Vet Clinic, Lori works as a vet assistant and coordinates surgeries. She will be there to support you and your pet through their big day.
Lori enjoys having a busy life. Her own home is ruled by Gilbert and Maeve, her mischievous but very sweet cats.
Lori is new to the veterinary industry. She moved to Victoria from Toronto, where she studied and worked in fashion marketing. She grew up on a farm in rural Saskatchewan where she worked with all kinds of farm animals. Her family home always had pet dogs, cats and two sheep. She has been a doggie foster parent. At James Bay Vet Clinic, Lori works as a vet assistant and coordinates surgeries. She will be there to support you and your pet through their big day.
Lori enjoys having a busy life. Her own home is ruled by Gilbert and Maeve, her mischievous but very sweet cats.
Miriam
Born and raised in Southern California, Miriam moved to Victoria in 2020 to start a new life in Canada. She graduated from Sprott Shaw College’s Veterinary Assisting program in October 2021 and immediately joined the James Bay Vet team. She is primarily interested in animal behavior and rehabilitation. She can often be found carrying our client’s pets from room to room for snuggles.
When she is not at the clinic, you can find her searching for Victoria’s best local restaurants and hidden gems. She also loves exploring new places with her two beloved shadows, Blue and Keelo.
When she is not at the clinic, you can find her searching for Victoria’s best local restaurants and hidden gems. She also loves exploring new places with her two beloved shadows, Blue and Keelo.
Dariel
Raised by two veterinarians in Alberta, Dariel has spent her whole life around animals and the veterinary world. She is relatively newly employed in the industry, but has spent plenty of time in clinics and on her family’s cattle ranch helping animals large and small.
Outside work, Dariel enjoys playing sports and spending time outdoors. If not exploring the great outdoors, she loves to be curled up on the couch with a book and her adorable cat, Roma.
Lucy
Lucy is a recent addition to our team that moved to Victoria, BC, a year ago. With a lifelong love for animals, Lucy brings great enthusiasm to her role. In her spare time, she volunteers with snake rehabilitation, showcasing her dedication to a wide range of animals. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Law and Environmental Science and has recently returned to school to pursue her true passion for animal healthcare. Lucy enjoys biking, good food, and visiting the stunning beaches of British Columbia.
Britta
Britta was born and raised on Vancouver Island. With a deep love and connection for animals, she began her journey as a veterinary assistant and receptionist at a compassionate practice. She then explored her other greatest passion, graduating from Camosun College's visual arts program and Vancouver Film School’s animation and concept design program. Throughout this time, she acquired a diverse experience in business management. She most recently transitioned from professional dog grooming into joining the James Bay Team. Britta is passionate in expanding her knowledge in the industry of our furry loved ones.
In her personal life, Britta can be found creating for her personal art business, playing video games, watching films, and exploring the island with her partner. Her dream is to have a beloved furry friend of her own.
In her personal life, Britta can be found creating for her personal art business, playing video games, watching films, and exploring the island with her partner. Her dream is to have a beloved furry friend of her own.
Brea
As a veterinary assistant with a passion for animal care, Brea is excited to support our James Bay team and the pets we care for. Brea recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, which has provided her with a solid foundation in animal health and science. Her goal is to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, and she is dedicated to gaining hands-on experience in this field.
At home, Brea shares her life with her beloved cat, Olive, who inspires her commitment to providing the best care for all animals. She looks forward to helping your pets thrive and ensuring they receive the love and attention they deserve.
At home, Brea shares her life with her beloved cat, Olive, who inspires her commitment to providing the best care for all animals. She looks forward to helping your pets thrive and ensuring they receive the love and attention they deserve.
Avery
Avery brings a unique blend of diverse experiences to our team, having pursued a Bachelor's degree in Classical Music and explored various career paths before finding her passion in animal care. With a long and varied work history in customer service, Avery has discovered her calling as a veterinary assistant at our clinic, where she demonstrates exceptional dedication and compassion towards animals and their owners. Her hardworking nature, coupled with a genuine love for animals, makes her an invaluable member of our team. Outside of work, Avery's kindness extends to rescuing and fostering rats, showcasing her commitment to animal welfare beyond the clinic walls.