It is not every day that a veterinary clinic opens its doors in the middle of a global pandemic. Yet that’s exactly what we did with Homey Gnome Veterinary Clinic. Opening several months after COVID-19 arrived, our clinic faced unprecedented challenges: uncertainty, restrictions, and a world adjusting to a new normal. While many businesses paused or scaled back, we knew we had to move forward, confident in our mission to provide compassionate, expert care for pets and the people who love them.
Five years later, we’re proud to say Homey Gnome is thriving. What started as a small team of just four has grown into a bustling, beloved veterinary practice. Our expanded facility allows us to care for more patients than ever before dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, and even exotic pets. All with the same dedication and heart that inspired our very first day.
A Clinic That Feels Like Home
At Homey Gnome Veterinary Clinic, we’ve always aimed to do more than treat pets. We wanted to create a place where both pets and their owners feel genuinely cared for. From the very beginning, attention to detail has been at the heart of everything we do. When possible, cats and exotic pets have separate rooms away from dogs, ensuring a calm and stress-free environment. Our clinic even includes a comfort room with a private outdoor exit to help pets and their families during end-of-life care. Thoughtful touches, like fold-up tables in exam rooms, discharging patients in the exam room instead of the lobby, and color choices inspired by the owner’s daughter, all help make our clinic welcoming, efficient, and considerate.
Over the years, we’ve treated not only everyday canine and feline patients but have also become a trusted destination for exotic pets. About 40% of our patients fall into this category, from parrots and bearded dragons to frogs, snakes, and rabbits. We collaborate closely with local bird and rabbit rescues to ensure that every pet in need receives the same high-quality care as all of our patients.
Behind the Gnome: The Story of Homey Gnome’s Heart
Our team isn’t just passionate about pets. They’re full of personality, unforgettable moments, and playful titles that reflect the heart they put into their work. Hear what makes them proud, what makes them laugh, and the fun side of their roles!
“I keep Homey Gnome running as veterinarian and owner, but in the realm of unofficial duties, I’m the Anal Gland Specialist. One memory I’ll never forget: climbing atop the lab counter to catch a pigeon that had wandered into the cabinets. My proudest moments happen when our staff makes a real difference, like with Daisy, a dog whose monthly visits for pain meds were made extra special by our team’s dedication.” – Noemi
“As a client service representative at Homey Gnome, I like to imagine myself as the warden. My most unforgettable moment was when we all dressed up as Shrek for Halloween, and I’m proudest of how we always come together to help each other whenever someone is in need.” – Melanie
“Certified veterinary technician is my job, but Bird Nerd is my specialty. My most unforgettable Homey Gnome moment has to be when I was on the phone taking an intake and turned around to see Dr. Plantz on the counter, trying to catch an escaped pigeon that had flown to the top of the cabinets. I even have photo evidence, and it still makes me laugh! What makes me most proud to work here isn’t just one moment. It’s knowing we provide personal, professional care to our unique and special patients. We get to know them and their owners on a friendly, personal level, and seeing familiar faces both furry and feathered never fails to brighten my day.” – Sarah
“Veterinarian is my role, but my playful title is Lost Stethoscope Specialist. My most unforgettable Homey Gnome moment? A bearded dragon decided my finger would make a good snack while Dr. Plantz was allegedly in charge of holding them for an exam. I’m proudest of working alongside non-profits to deliver essential medical treatment and surgical care to exotic animals in need.” – Jorge
“My job is veterinary assistant, but my true calling? Bulldog Whisperer. My favorite memories at Homey Gnome are our group trip to Snake Discovery and finally adopting my crested gecko, Bibble, from Krystal! I’m most proud of the opportunity to train new veterinary assistants and share the skills and trust that Mila and Dr. Plantz have given me.” – Olivia
“My job is receptionist, but my playful title? Professional Scheduler. My most unforgettable Homey Gnome moment was being asked to join the team, and I’m most proud of watching the clinic grow into the thriving, welcoming place it is today.” – Michelle
“I keep the clinic running as practice manager, but my fun title? Mama Bear. My most unforgettable moment was our very first appointment the day we opened. Not only did Wayne and Kelly gift us our first gnome to oversee construction, they were there with their pets on opening day, such a special memory! I’m proudest of the countless times I hear our clients talk about the wonderful care their pets receive and how much we care for them too. We truly have an amazing team!” – Mila
“My official title is technician assistant, but unofficially, I’m the Dog Whisper. My most unforgettable Homey Gnome moment was when a client complimented a clay paw print I made, saying, ‘You guys always do a good job with the paw prints.’ That little recognition made my day and reminded me why I love what I do!” – Amanda
“Officially, I’m a client service representative, but I like to think of myself as the Surgery Snuggler. One memory that always makes me smile is surprising Mila on her birthday by opening every cupboard and drawer in the office. She adored it! What fills me with pride at Homey Gnome is when clients express their gratitude for the care and compassion I give their pets. Every day brings a chance to meet a variety of animals and build special bonds with them and their families.” – Kelsey G.
“Technician assistant by title, The Shepherd Girl by spirit. One of my most unforgettable Homey Gnome moments? Being away for a month and receiving a bunch of photos of the team with my face pasted onto a Lorax costume. It made me laugh and feel connected to my Gnomie family from afar. I’m proud to work here because no matter how tough a day gets, everyone jumps in to help. Like when Dr. Plantz grabbed a mop to help us close late showing the incredible teamwork that makes Homey Gnome so special.” – Brynn
“My most unforgettable Homey Gnome moment? When a blood python panicked and flung poop all over the exam room, and Dr. Polanco just stood there looking completely defeated. I feel extra proud to work here when I see acts of compassion, like Sarah staying with a dog who had no one during her final moments, watching Annie grow up, or seeing five-star reviews roll in. Associate Veterinarian is my official role, but the hat I secretly wear at work? The Distractor.” – Kelsey S.
“My role is technician assistant, but behind the scenes, I reign as the Chicken Queen. One of my most memorable Homey Gnome moments? Accidentally spraying Cassie with urine during my very first cystocentesis! I’m proudest of how our team surrounded me with love and support when I said goodbye to my childhood cat. It showed me how deeply compassionate this clinic truly is.” – Emily
“As a CVT, I handle the technical side of things, but in my imagination, I’m the official crazy hamster/bird lady. One of my favorite Homey Gnome memories? Watching Dr. Plantz chase a loose pigeon across the treatment area while standing on the counter. And, of course, tricking her with my strawberry lemonade ‘UTI sample.’ The proudest I’ve felt here? Saving little Rocco Romani when euthanasia seemed like the only option. Seeing him grow into a healthy pup made me beam with pride.” – Jenna
“My role is certified veterinary technician, but if I had a playful title, it would be Bunny Whisperer. One unforgettable moment? Helping with surgeries on frogs, fish, spiders, and all sorts of tiny critters. I’m especially proud when clients tell me how grateful they are for the care and excellent experience we provide here at Homey Gnome, especially after less-than-ideal experiences elsewhere.” – Kelsey S.
“Officially, I’m a CVT at Homey Gnome, but in the realm of fun, I’m the Sing-Songy Loudmouth. My top Homey Gnome moment has to be the epic Culver’s saga. Watching Emily nearly wage war over missing ice cream and drinks! I feel proud every time our team goes above and beyond, like when I helped a nervous dog and gained a client’s heartfelt gratitude. It’s moments like that that show why I love what we do.” – Annie
“CVT is my title, but I answer to Crazy Ferret Lady in the world of fun. Unforgettable Homey Gnome memory? Supporting a ferret through a scary vaccine reaction and seeing them leave happy. I’m most proud of helping all the patients we see each day and making their lives better.” – Martha
From heartwarming victories to hilarious mishaps, our team brings more than expertise to Homey Gnome, They bring joy, compassion, and a little bit of mischief. Behind every scrubs-clad smile is a story, a memory, and a love for animals that makes this clinic truly special. Get to know the people who make Homey Gnome a place where pets and their humans feel at home.
Creating a Warm and Playful Environment
What truly sets Homey Gnome apart is our blend of professional veterinary care and a welcoming, homey atmosphere. Today, our clinic is home to over 150 gnomes, many gifted by clients who want to celebrate the personalized care their pets receive. Each gnome reflects the joy, humor, and playful spirit that define who we are.
Homey Gnome began as a fun, hand-drawn idea that perfectly captured the vision Dr. Plantz had for the clinic: a warm, inviting place where pets and their humans are treated with respect, compassion, and a touch of whimsy. The name stuck and so did the culture it represents.
Thriving Beyond Expectations
Despite opening in the middle of a pandemic, we at Homey Gnome have not only survived, we’ve flourished. Our team’s dedication, creativity, and professionalism have earned us countless five-star reviews. Clients often tell us how much they appreciate the exceptional care their pets receive, the personalized attention, and the joy that our staff brings to every visit.
We’ve expanded our facility to accommodate more patients and offer enhanced services, further demonstrating our commitment to quality veterinary care. From routine wellness exams to surgical procedures and specialized care for exotic animals, Homey Gnome has grown into a trusted leader in the veterinary community.
Looking Ahead with Homey Gnome Veterinary Clinic
As we celebrate five years at Homey Gnome Veterinary Clinic, it’s a moment not just to reflect, but to look ahead. Our clinic’s expansion reflects our continued growth and commitment to serving the community. With a passionate team, an ever-growing roster of patients, and a dedication to excellence, the future is full of promise.
The stories, pranks, and personal touches that make Homey Gnome special are just as important as the veterinary care we provide. From chaotic pythons to rescued pigeons, every patient receives expertise, compassion, and a touch of magic. Our clinic has become a place where animals thrive, clients feel truly heard and cared for, and our team can celebrate both the serious and the silly moments of daily life.
Here’s to five years of laughter, dedication, and exceptional veterinary care and to many more years of growth, joy, and community at Homey Gnome Veterinary Clinic.