McHenry Times

Dr. Jason Olech, who makes house calls for furry and feathered friends via his Chicagoland Mobile Veterinary Services, plans to launch a permanent Lake in the Hills location in February, the Northwest Herald stated recently.

The new clinic will offer wellness exams, vaccines, lab tests, and boarding for sick pets. Olech treats a variety of animals — including fish, birds, lizards and rodents — and plans to house several types of snakes and geckos for educational purposes, the doctor told the publication.

Additionally, said the Northwest Herald, the veterinarian intends to work with other animal care centers and farms to help stakeholders develop contingency plans.

Lake in the Hills’ village board of trustees unanimously approved a conditional use permit for the business last month, the newspaper said. Olech noted that his ability to put down roots with the business’ first fixed location resulted from strong community support; the business found itself in a precarious position following a costly motor vehicle accident involving his van four years ago.

“We had some really good support from our clients,” Olech told the Northwest Herald. “Everybody pulled together and they kept us moving. We didn’t really feel it was right to throw in the towel and give up on this, and I’m glad we didn’t.”

Olech said he and an assistant will remain available to make visits to clients’ homes and businesses.