Dr. O’Connor
Veterinarian
Dr. O’Connor grew up outside Philadelphia Pennsylvania as one of four children. He always had many pets and as a child wanted to become a zookeeper. From 1994-1998, he attended the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in biology with coursework concentrations in English, Archaeology, and Classical Studies. After graduation, he began his first career at GE Capital Commercial Real Estate. There he worked as a financial analyst, spending much of his time developing information systems for the company branches in the USA, Europe, and Mexico.
In 2003 he was accepted to Veterinary School in Dublin Ireland, where he spent the first three years of study. In 2006 he transferred to the University of Glasgow Veterinary School, from which he graduated in 2008.
After Graduation, Dr. O’Connor came home to Philadelphia where he worked for a year before moving to Orlando. It was in Orlando that he met his wife Susan on Catholic Match. They married in 2010 and he moved to Fort Pierce. He spent 2010 to late 2012 working at the Florida Veterinary League in Vero Beach. In 2013 Dr. O’Connor founded Holy Family Veterinary Hospital. He currently lives in Vero Beach with his wife Susan, their three children.
Years in Practice: 12
Education: B.V.M.S. University of Glasgow, 2008
Dr. Willett
Veterinarian
Bio Coming Soon.
Dr. Cowan
Veterinarian
Dr. Justine Cowan is a skilled and compassionate veterinarian with a passion for providing exceptional care to animals. She graduated from Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in East Lansing in May 2017 and has been practicing ever since.
Dr. Cowan’s love for animals started at a young age and led her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. She is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field and providing her patients with the highest level of care possible.
In addition to her work as a veterinarian, Dr. Cowan has a variety of personal interests. She enjoys painting, crafting, singing, and dance, particularly Latin and ballroom styles. She also loves to read and travel, and has had the opportunity to explore many parts of the world.
At home, Dr. Cowan has two furry companions of her own. She shares her life with a Basset hound named Betty and a miniature dachshund named Newton. Her love for her own pets is evident in the care and attention she provides to all of her patients.
For pet owners seeking compassionate and comprehensive veterinary care, Dr. Justine Cowan is a trusted and experienced professional. Her dedication to her patients and her passion for her work make her a valuable member of the veterinary community.
Years in Practice: 6
Education: Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, 2017
Yvonne Van Ovost
Practice Manager
I have been working in the veterinary medical field for as long as I can remember. I started cleaning kennels, worked my way up to veterinary technician, then Practice Manager. I worked for Port St Lucie Animal Hospital for the majority of my career. When Dr. Passman retired, I found myself searching for an Animal Hospital that cared for and love both its Patients and Clients. Holy Family Veterinary Hospital was the perfect fit! Dr. O’Connor and his staff made me feel right at home.
In my spare time, Dale and I take care of our 2 dogs and 2 cats. Dollie is a 5-year-old King Charles Cavalier, and Sandy is a 10-year-old Border Terrier. Our cats Marilyn & Monroe are pretty easy to care for, just love and food. We also like fishing, boating, bowling, and gardening.
Emily
Veterinary Technician
Emily has been in a vet clinic since the day she was born, literally! She grew up volunteering and eventually working at Port St Lucie Animal Hospital when she was old enough. She used to sleep in the dog runs and do her homework underneath the doctor’s desk. Her passion for animals only grew over time and she decided to continue her journey here at Holy Family. She has 3 dogs: a blue heeler named Jack, a Chesapeake Bay retriever named Kimber, and a German short hair pointer named Buddy, and 11 chickens.