FOUNDERS
Dr Dana Koch, VMD
Dr. Dana Koch grew up in Langhorne, PA. From an early age she was passionate about animals and knew she wanted to become a veterinarian. This dream led her on a path to discover a true love and respect for animals, medicine, and the human-animal bond. Her path to achieving her ultimate goal took her through many years of studies including a biology degree from LaSalle University, a master’s degree in laboratory animal medicine from Drexel University and then her veterinary degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
Dr. Dana’s professional interests include preventative medicine, dermatology, dentistry, exotics, specifically rabbits, guinea pigs and rats. She loves working with senior pets and helping to make their remaining years as comfortable as possible. She is passionate about international medical missions and has participated in nine of these trips in various countries performing high volume spay and neuter in countries with an overpopulation problem.
In 2018 Dr. Dana completed her certification in animal acupuncture through the Chi University. Acupuncture has provided many pets with an alternative treatment option for various disease processes. Dr. Dana fully supports continued learning experiences and that is why she also completed a certification in animal rehabilitation in 2022. This discipline in veterinary medicine has proven to improve mobility, lessen recovery times post surgeries, and provide many animals with relief from chronic conditions.
In her spare time she enjoys playing tennis, running races, traveling and experiencing other cultures. Dr. Dana started a non-profit organization called Kitten Mittens and Wagging Tails. The charity provides resources and assistance to animals in need, while also educating others on animal related topics.
Vanessa Garcia
Vanessa Garcia, originally from Northern New Jersey, moved to Philadelphia in 2008 for work. She studied Massage Therapy and had a longstanding interest in anatomy, physiology, and sports medicine, especially in rehabilitation. After working in the field for a while, life took her in a different direction, leading her to the travel industry, where she has been happily working since 2013.
During this time, Vanessa met Seven, a sweet and spunky cat who became her loyal companion. When Seven was diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease, Vanessa did her best to learn as much as possible about the condition, hoping to support others in similar situations. Sadly, Seven’s illness advanced quickly, and she passed away in August 2020.
In October of that same year, Vanessa adopted Daisy, a foster cat with stage 2 kidney disease, who had been surrendered due to her health. Vanessa feels that Seven somehow brought
Daisy into her life, and she has since focused on keeping Daisy healthy and comfortable. Daisy now stars on Instagram account, @SevensDaisy where Vanessa shares her experiences and offers helpful insights, with guidance from her vet, Dr. Dana, and Daisy’s best friend, Winston.
Inspired by her journey with Seven and Daisy, Vanessa became a veterinary technician in March 2021. She now works alongside Dr. Dana, while continuing her work in the travel industry, with the hope of supporting patients and contributing to causes that help animals.
Our Fur Family
Lilly (Formerly Mama Poppy)
Lilly, my one-year-old beauty, is more than just a cat—she’s a mama with a story. Rescued from a kill shelter by the incredible Beth Stern, Lilly came into my life a few months after giving birth to five adorable kittens, lovingly known as the “Poppyseeds,” who we still keep in touch with! Now, she’s living the kitten life she never had, with a playful yet sweet personality. She loves to play 24/7, birdwatch, chase springs, and wake up her mom. Her favorite thing ever? A Churu snack! Together, we share our daily conversations and adventures on Instagram (@sevensdaisy), celebrating the special bond between us.
Penny - Domestic Short Hair - Age 8
Penny is an athletic and kind three legged cat who was brought to Dr. Dana 7 years ago. A good samitarian found Penny severely injured in her yard and brought her to the veterinary office. Dr. Dana had to amputate her injured leg and then decided to give her a forever home. Penny loves climbing her cat tree, snuggling with Luna and watching her humans from afar.
Over the Rainbow Bridge
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.... Author unknown...
Our Pets that have crossed the rainbow bridge…
Daisy- Ragdoll Cat
Daisy was a shy and sweet Ragdoll with a gentle soul. Surrendered by her family at the age of 8 due to her chronic kidney disease, she arrived at the shelter frightened and unwell, having been bullied by another household pet. Fortunately, she was rescued through the Beth Stern program, where she found her forever home and a loving bond with her new mom.
Daisy’s journey with chronic kidney disease became a story of resilience, shared with others on Instagram through heartfelt conversations. Despite her challenges, Daisy found joy in life’s little
pleasures—her favorite Llama toy, sipping on Tuna Lattés, and waking her mom in the middle of the night for some extra love.
On July 24, 2023, Daisy crossed the rainbow bridge, but her legacy lives on. She touched many
lives with her quiet strength, and her story continues to raise awareness for animals with CKD.
Winston
Winston, a beagle/Irish setter mix, lived a long and happy life, bringing joy to everyone he met. His journey began in a research laboratory, where he helped veterinarians and scientists learn about leukocyte adhesion deficiency. For the past 12 years, he found his forever home with Dr. Dana, where he thrived.
Winston cherished his long walks in the park, therapy visits with children, and, of course, any food he could get his paws on—especially Frosty Paws, peanut butter, and whatever happened to be on his human servant’s plate. His adventures were the heart of many stories, and his courage and resilience shone brightly as a cancer survivor.
More than anything, Winston was Dr. Dana’s soul dog, a true companion who brought comfort and love. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit continues to inspire and make people smile, just as he did throughout his life.
Walnut and Tango
Walnut and Tango, a bonded brother-sister rabbit duo, were rescued from a hoarding house and found a loving home together. Deeply connected, they spent their days snuggling side by side and became world-class chewers of countless objects. Their gentle spirits and loving bond brought warmth to everyone around them.
They also played a special role as willing participants in Dr. Dana’s “vets in training” classes, helping inspire children interested in veterinary medicine. Although they have both passed, Walnut and Tango’s legacy of love, learning, and companionship will always be remembered.
Seven
Seven was a sweet and sassy cat who taught Vanessa the true meaning of being a pet owner. Though she originally belonged to Vanessa’s roommate, their bond was instant and unbreakable. When Vanessa moved, there was no question—Seven was coming with her.
Seven’s playful personality filled their home with joy. She loved knocking things over, lounging belly-up (but only ever tolerating 2 ½ belly rubs), and was always on the lookout for whatever food you had. Her quirky charm and endless affection made every day brighter.
Though she’s deeply missed, Seven’s spirit and the love she gave continue to live on in Vanessa’s heart.
Luna - Domestic Short Hair - Age 15
Luna was a beautiful black feline, adopted by Dr. Dana 11 years ago from a local rescue. She
took on the role of leader in the household, ensuring all the other animals were kept in line with her quiet authority. Luna was also known for her love of napping and leading the second dinner club with distinction. She brought so much love and warmth, and her presence will always be cherished. Luna has now crossed the rainbow bridge, leaving behind a legacy of love and leadership in the hearts of those who knew her.
Betty
Betty, a feisty English Lop, spent her days indulging in her favorite activities—eating, chewing, and enthusiastically rearranging her enclosure. Though she was surrendered for “not playing well with others,” she found a loving and understanding home with Dr. Dana, where she enjoyed five happy years.
Betty’s long, floppy ears and signature back leg thumps made her one-of-a-kind, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her. Her spirited personality brought so much joy, and though she passed in 2021, she will forever hold a special place in Dr. Dana’s heart.
