Welcome to the clinic

At Niagara Animal Hospital, we understand that animals are not just pets, but also members of the family. As your family's 'other' doctor we constantly strive to provide the quality of care that you would expect for yourselves. We believe every pet should be treated as if it were our own.

We employ the latest in equipment, from diagnostic equipment, to dental, to surgical, to anesthetic monitoring, to digital x-ray. These things, together, along with our caring and compassionate team provide the best care for your pet.

Please stop in anytime for a hospital tour, or give us a call to answer any questions you may have. Our caring and dedicated team is here to take care of you and your pets!

We are constantly improving our level of care

We regularly seek out training and equipment to make sure we are providing the best quality care possible. From keeping up with the industry through professional books, magazines and websites to vendor sponsored lunch and learns on the latest products and services to large veterinary conferences with thousands of other Veterinarians. All of our pets deserve the best!

We are fellow pet owners

All of us at the hospital are fellow pet lovers; in fact you will probably see a number of our pets when you visit the hospital. Your pet gets the same care and treatment that our pets receive. We don’t recommend products, medications, or procedures we don’t use and believe in for our own pets.

We are a small team with big experience

Our team brings together their decades of experience providing care to animals. What does that mean? We know our clients and their pets and our team likes to work together. In addition we have a large network of veterinary specialists to consult with when necessary.

Meet our Team

Dr. Aaron Zimmerman, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

Dr. Zimmerman was born and raised in Peoria, IL. After serving 5 years in the Army as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne and 6 years as a Drill Sergeant in the Army Reserves, he attended undergraduate and veterinary school at Madison, WI where he graduated in 2014. He and his wife (Dr. Drake) practiced in several areas (Texas, Wisconsin, and Michigan) before joining Niagara Animal Hospital in 2021.

Dr. Zimmerman has a passion for providing owners with the best information to help them make the right decision for their pets. His special interests include dermatology, pain management, anesthesia, and internal medicine.

At home Dr. Zimmerman and Dr. Drake enjoy spending time with their 3 dogs (Orzo, Walter, and Tootsie), their 2 cats (Ash and Nala), a young Russian Tortoise (Al), an amputee rescue toad (Eileen), and too many aquariums.

In his time away he enjoys learning, reading and spending time outdoors.

Dr. Theresa Drake, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

Dr. Theresa Drake received her DVM (2014) and Masters in Bacteriology (2009) from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She also holds bachelor’s degrees (2004) in Cello Performance (Oberlin Conservatory of Music) and German Studies (Oberlin College).

Dr. Drake was raised in Iowa City, IA, the eldest of three children. As a youngster, Theresa always had a strong interest in biology, music, and language. Before graduation from college, Dr. Drake decided to focus her life goals and education on animal health, which eventually lead her to veterinary school. While working her way through pre-requisite coursework for vet school, Dr. Drake earned a living as a veterinary assistant for several years in both general and emergency practices. She also volunteered at the local animal shelter and worked on two different dairies (one cow, one goat).

As an experienced general practitioner, Dr. Drake has strong medical and surgical skills in many fields of veterinary medicine including preventive care, urgent/emergency medicine, dentistry, and dermatology. You will find an emphasis on quality of life guides your discussions with Dr. Drake as you work together to treat your pet.

Dr. Drake currently shares her home with her husband Dr. Aaron Zimmerman and many pets, including 3 dogs, 2 cats, a tortoise, toad, and fish. In her spare time she enjoys playing the cello, crafting, and watching reruns of Schitt’s Creek.

Ashley, Veterinary Assistant, Certified in Laser Therapy

I was born and raised in Milwaukee Wisconsin and later moved to this area during my high school years. Recently my family and I just bought a house in the area and are so happy to call this place home. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for my family as we continue to grow.

I went to Lakeland College where I graduated in 2013 with my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology. While going to college I became a certified dog trainer and worked with the local humane society to make sure the dogs there got placed in the right home. After college I came back to the area and started working for the Almost Home Animal Shelter and am still there to this day. In November of 2015, I joined the Niagara Animal Hospital. I have enjoyed growing in my field and love learning new ways to improve the care that I can give to our patients here.

When it comes to our furry part of our family it is always changing as I have a very hard time saying no to an animal in need of a new forever home. We currently have 3 dogs that are all very active and a bit on the crazy side. Two are German Shorthairs named Bullet and Remy, and one is a Weimaraner named Enzo. We then have two cats, Lucky that I found as a kitten trapped in a fish net and Bagheera who is our beautiful Bengal cat. To round out our household we have two horses, Jazz and Nero who are spunky even in their old age.

During my spare time you can find me outside doing a variety of activities (gardening, fishing, hiking, camping, playing with my son and going for walks). If I am not doing those activities, you can find me with my animals or at the racetrack in Norway with my family as the guys all race together (Dad, brother, and nephew) and I am part of the pit crew. 

Brooke, Certified Veterinary Assistant

I grew up in Niagara, and enjoy living in the northern parts of WI. I have always had animals in my life and will always have them. Ever since I was little, I knew I wanted to work in a vet clinic to help sick animals. With my passion for animals it makes work exciting and enjoyable.

I graduated from Niagara High School in 2016, then moved to Wausau, WI, for my college education. I got an Associate’s Degree in Veterinary Science at Northcentral Technical College. I graduated in May of 2018, and then moved back to Niagara right after graduation. I was hired here at the Niagara Animal clinic in 2018. I am currently in the veterinary technician program through PennFoster, working towards my certification. 

I grew up with various animals throughout my life. I currently have three dogs, two cats, chickens, and fish. My shih tzu’s name is Diva, her name says it all. Forrest is my goofy golden retriever, and Farrley is my sweet springer spaniel. I enjoy taking long walks and adventures with them. Finley is my gray domestic long hair, and Madeera is my curious Bengal. My cats enjoy spending time on their cat tree, and running amuck throughout our house. 

In my spare time I do a lot of outdoor activities with my husband. We do a lot of fishing, hiking, and camping. I also enjoy side-by-side rides, and boat trips. 

Kassie, Veterinary Assistant

Originally from Lower Michigan, I moved around a lot as a child and grew up mostly in the South. I met my now husband in 2012 when visiting the U.P with my college roommate. In 2013, I moved to Iron Mountain and have lived off and on in the area since then. My Husband, John and I have been married since 2014 and we welcomed our child in July 2022. 

In my spare time I enjoy doing crafts, reading and playing video games. However, together we have a pretty full house so there isn't much free time. We have two black and white long hair cats; Storm & Trooper They are 9 and litter mates adopted from the shelter. We also have a miniature Dachshund named Oscar. Oscar is 9, as well,  and is the best cuddler.

Animals have always been a passion of mine and I’ve wanted to work with them from a young age. Since starting in the clinic in 2021 I have learned so much and am continuing to grow my knowledge. I am very grateful for Dr. Drake and Dr. Zimmerman for granting me this opportunity to work with them and looking forward to working with you and your pets. 

Kristin, Veterinary Assistant

I'm Kristin Jicha, with a passion for animals that originated from my childhood in Arizona and New Mexico. My family moved up to Wisconsin in 2022. I love reading and playing video games in my free time.

I'm a proud mom to my four children: Alanna, Freya, Persephone, and Jessica. We share our home with our four pets: our dogs, Aries and Nova, and our cats, Sniper and Spirit. My life reflects my dedication to my family, pets, and my career in animal care. I believe my journey is a beautiful mix of personal fulfillment and professional achievement.

Tiger, Animal Client Relationship Specialist

My name is Tiger, and I am the clinic cat. During the day I stay busy conducting frequent inspections of the building (how do those cat nip balls get scattered around the clinic anyway?), and reporting on the best lounging spots. Typically, I dress up for the holidays. A cat has to look his best when his friends come in!

Generally, you can find me on the front desk checking in shipments and organizing appointments as they come in. I have a big job but it's very rewarding when my hard work puts a smile on a sad face. To keep this place upbeat and fun, I organize a daily game of hide and seek. There are so many hiding spots, my co-workers would never find me if I didn't throw out a meow hint every now and then.

When late afternoon rolls around, I move to the back of the clinic so everyone knows it's time to start cleaning up and preparing to leave for the day. I sleep in the guest room of the clinic with any animals who are staying overnight and keep them company. Usually just before bed the staff checks in with the wall mounted camera and I give them a report on how everyone is doing. I love my job!

Mara

Mara: A Tale of Resilience 

In the frosty grip of December 2022, a compassionate soul stumbled upon a forsaken kitten—a fragile life abandoned in a roadside ditch. Frozen, dehydrated, and on the brink of oblivion, she was brought to our clinic, her fate hanging in the balance.

But hope, like a stubborn flame, refused to be extinguished. Against all odds, we fought for her. Mara, as we named her, emerged from the abyss. Days turned into weeks, and she blossomed—a testament to her indomitable spirit.

Her shy demeanor and mesmerizing blue eyes now grace our clinic. Mara embodies our unwavering commitment to healing, a living reminder that every life is worth saving.

Join us in celebrating Mara’s journey—a beacon of resilience and hope.