Meet Our Team
Janet Roa
Janet is a highly experienced Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) with a background in neuro-rehabilitation recovery.
Janet originally trained as an Occupational Therapist at Quinnipiac University in the United States and went on to gain Board Certification in Neuro-Rehabilitation from the American Occupational Therapy Association, specialising in the rehabilitation of patients with complex neurological.
She was the Senior Occupational Therapist for the Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore for 10 years where she gained extensive experience in treating a variety of traumatic orthopaedic injuries.
In 2016, Janet completed her Canine Rehabilitation certification through the University of Tennessee, one of the leading programs in veterinary rehabilitation. She developed and led a canine rehabilitation program at Chesapeake Veterinary Surgery Specialists in Maryland, working closely with veterinary surgeons to support dogs recovering from orthopaedic and neurological conditions.
Janet is a respected authority in canine rehabilitation and was invited to speak at the Veterinary Specialist Services Conference at the Brisbane Convention Centre, sharing her expertise with veterinary professionals.
Jessie
Rehabilitation Assistant
Jessie has worked as a veterinary nurse for 14 years, developing extensive experience in veterinary nursing and a strong passion for helping animals to improve and maintain their quality of life. Her interest in rehabilitation grew from her own experience undergoing rehabilitation following a complete ankle reconstruction, giving her a genuine appreciation for the important role rehabilitation can play in recovery, strength and mobility.
Jessie is certified in Small Animal Hydrotherapy and Canine Remedial Massage and is currently undertaking her Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) qualification through the Veterinary Academy of Higher Learning and the University of Tennessee. She is particularly passionate about IVDD rehabilitation and recovery and is working towards developing a strong focus in this area. Her goal is to continue expanding her knowledge and skills to provide individualised rehabilitation care for dogs recovering from neurological and orthopaedic conditions.
Outside of work, Jessie has a particular love for dachshunds and affectionately describes herself as having “ODD” (Obsessive Dachshund Disorder). She volunteers with Dachshund Rescue Australia and Dachshund IVDD Support Australia, where she supports dachshunds and their owners through rescue, rehoming, education and IVDD support.
Jessie is also mum to Frankfurter, her eight-year-old miniature dachshund who is the love of her life. Frankfurter has been a constant companion throughout her journey and has only strengthened her passion for helping dogs live happy, comfortable and active lives
Taylor
Rehabilitation Assistant
Taylor completed her Certificate III in Animal Studies in 2021 and later expanded her knowledge with a course in Canine Psychology, Behaviour & Training in 2023. She has a strong interest in animal behaviour and is passionate about helping pets feel calm, safe, and cared for during their visits to us. She is also currently studying Social Media!
Taylor works full time in the boarding area of The Vet Lounge but you will often see her assisting Janet in rehab.
