About VVC
The goal of Valley Veterinary Clinic is to fulfill the needs of our clients and their pets by providing quality veterinary services through a responsive, caring, and professional staff with emphasis on individual attention and commitment to community services.
Lowell L. Novy, DVM
FounderLowell L. Novy is the founder and sole proprietor of Valley Veterinary Clinic, which was established in 1963. He received his doctorate in veterinary medicine from Kansas State University and migrated to California. Dr. Novy divides his time between his cattle ranches in Northern California and Valley Veterinary Clinic. For the last 10 years, he has been actively involved with reducing the animal euthanasia numbers in Ventura County and supports land and environmental conservation. He is currently the President and Founder of the Valley Veterinary Clinic Charitable Non-Profit Corporation. The organization provides financial and medical assistance for homeless animals and organizes low cost spay and neuter clinics for individuals who need financial aid.
Laura Gonzales, DVM
Chief of StaffDr. Gonzales finished her undergraduate studies at Stanford University in 1986. She received her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 1991 from University of California, Davis. Dr. Gonzales joined Valley Veterinary Clinic in 1993 and is the clinic's longest tenured associate. Her special interests include surgery and exotic animal medicine and is an avid soccer enthusiast.
Dr. Jessica Spitzer
Associate VeterinarianDr. Spitzer finished her undergraduate studies at Harvard University. She completed her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University. She joined Valley Veterinary Clinic in 1999 as a part time associate.
Lori Prater, DVM
Associate VeterinarianOriginally from Colorado, Dr. Prater completed her BA in Environmental Sciences at University of Virginia in 1995. She graduated from Colorado State University of Veterinary Medicine in 2002. Dr. Prater joined Valley Veterinary Clinic in 2005. Her special interests include gastrointestinal disease and dentistry.
Tricia Hans, DVM
Associate VeterinarianDr. Tricia Hans is a 2004 graduate of the University of Georgia. She practiced in Northern California and Chicago prior to joining Valley Veterinary Clinic in 2011. One of her special interests is ultrasound. In addition to practicing veterinary medicine, she would one day like to train guide dogs.