Rachel Hollenbach
DVM
Dr. Rachel Hollenbach, an Ohio native, was drawn to veterinary medicine from a young age as she witnessed the power of the relationship between pet parents and their companions. Strengthening and enhancing that bond led her to Ohio State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, an additional certification as a Fear-Free Professional, and, ultimately, to Northwest Animal Hospital. Dr. Hollenbach chose to become an owner in 2019 so that she could build a team, create an environment, and practice a level of medicine that honors what pets mean to those who love them. Her passion within practice stretches from oral health and dentistry to animal behavior to caring for geriatric pets to make sure their finals days are lived to the fullest.
When she’s not caring for patients and spending time with our valued clients, Dr. Hollenbach can be found enjoying quality time with her husband and young daughter, Julia. A believer that no house is complete without a few pets, three cats and a Bichon, also call the Hollenbach household home.
Nicole Hird
VMD
Diplomate, American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (feline specialist)
“Forty-plus years after receiving my V.M.D., I can’t imagine a more rewarding life’s work. I made my decision as a nine-year-old because the dog I loved was dying. Knowing the loss, I find joy in the ever-increasing ways in which veterinarians can help pets and their people. Each year brings deeper regard for the human-animal connection, one of life’s true blessings.”
Dr. Hird’s day is all about preventive care, medical needs, and behavioral help. She is a specialist in feline practice as a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. Nonetheless, she takes equal pleasure in caring for BOTH dogs and cats. She has been part of the Northwest Animal Hospital family for more than 25 years.
In practice since 1973, Dr. Hird graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (which explains the V.M.D. degree) and became a Diplomate of the ABVP in 1996, one of about 85 in the feline field.
Four pets make Dr. Hird’s life quite wonderful and never dull. Batty is her charming orange 17-year-old tabby cat. Excalibur is the 11-year-old German Shepherd who still possesses the energy of a puppy. She loves to see Batty nestled into Excalibur’s flank for a nap — such a sweet moment. Youngest of all is Knight, a 5-year-old German Shepherd. He adds abundant personal knowledge to the experience of behavioral challenges. Ex and Knight currently compete with Dr. Hird in agility and nose work, with rally obedience in the past. Aged Sugar, a Cairn Terrier, rounds out the pack.
Grandchildren just barely outnumber pets. Felix, Madeline, and Benjamin live in Boston. Molly and Lucas are here in Columbus and help keep her young.
Dr. Hird’s professional memberships include:
Dr. Chelsea Garwood
DVM
Dr. Chelsea Garwood had the opportunity of working in the veterinary field from a very young age, allowing her to establish 15+ years total of experience at small animal hospitals, in research, and with zoologic species. Over the years, she has moved throughout the east coast and Midwest, giving her the chance to explore new places, meet wonderful people, and care for many beloved companions. Among one of the many wonderful people, she worked for Dr. Niki Hird while completing her bachelor’s degree at The Ohio State University. Dr. Hird trained Dr. Garwood during this time and continued to provide mentorship while Dr. Garwood achieved her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at The University of Illinois. She is thrilled to pursue her passion in veterinary medicine and build strong relationships with the clients and patients at Northwest Animal Hospital.
Dr. Garwood’s love for animals extends to her time at home, for she shares a howling husky and energetic mixed breed dog with her incredible husband and spends quality time at the barn horseback riding. Additionally, she enjoys dancing, reading, and traveling as often as she can.
Trina
Practice Manager
Trina joined Northwest as Practice Manager in November of 2020. She is new to the world of Vet Medicine after spending 20 years in the non-profit sector but is already impressed by the work ethic and passion of the staff at NWAH. Trina is a proud graduate of Ohio University and maintains her status as a Licensed Social Worker. In her free time she is an active volunteer with a local rescue and is currently the proud owner of three dogs, two of whom were “foster fails”.
Jennifer
Veterinary Assistant
Jennifer describes herself as endearingly eccentric. She has been working at NWAH since 2017. She used to work in the food industry, but found it unfulfilling. A friend of hers worked at NWAH and thought it might be a good fit. Jennifer has had a lot of odd pets growing up including: rats, ferrets, tortoises, turtles and iguana and a chameleon. She has always loved animals. She currently has one pointy eared child named Geiger who is a cat. Geiger is the most spoiled cat of all time.
Uriah
Client Service Representative
Uriah has been with NWAH since June of 2020 but has worked in the veterinary field for years now. Growing up with cats and turtles sparked her passion and love for animals. In her career she has volunteered at a shelter, the Ohio WildLife Center and worked as a receptionist since 2017. Uriah attended OSU for biology and plans to further her education so she can help provide exceptional care to other people’s furry friends. In her down time, she enjoys hanging out with family and friends. cuddling with her cat Sutan and reading a good book. Through the good times and hard times, Uriah enjoys what she does and couldn’t imagine working anywhere else.
Hannah
Hannah is a full-time undergraduate student at The Ohio State University. She joined the team at NWAH to gain more experience in the veterinary field in hopes of one day becoming a veterinarian herself. In her free time, she is raising a Labrador Retriever named Zoom in hopes that he will one day become a guide dog. She is also an active member of the OSU jump rope team and serves as the president of a veterinary outreach organization. Hannah will tell you that she is super happy to be a part of a team that is excited to teach her about the veterinary field and encourage her growth as a member of a professional team.