Meet Dr. Janelle Walker

I was the neighborhood kid who brought home strays and tried to nurse injured birds and squirrels back to health. Following a double major of Biology and Microbiology, I received my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 1992 and have been a dedicated veterinarian ever since. As a pet owner all my life, I know how stressful it can be to bring a beloved family pet to the veterinarian for care. That’s why after starting Best Friends Veterinary in 2001, I’ve been working ever since to create a better, more comfortable way.

When the weather cooperates (and sometimes when it’s not!), you’ll find me on hiking trails with my dogs, gardening or riding my bike for miles across the countryside.

Professional Degrees & Affiliations

  • Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State
  • University and Washington State University
  • Portland Veterinary Medical Association
  • American Animal Hospital Association
  • American Association of Feline Practitioners
  • Oregon Veterinary Medical Association
  • Cofounder, Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon


Our Staff


Alicia

Lead Veterinary Technician

Hey! I’m Alicia. I am a native Oregonian and a recent graduate of Oregon State University with a degree in animal science with a focus in pre-veterinary medicine. I have always been an animal lover, and at six years old I decided I wanted to be a vet. Working at BFVMC is the next step in helping me reach my goal.

When I’m not working you can find me playing with my Australian Shepherd, Maizy, or at the barn with my four horses: Dixie Chic, Prints, Vixen and Minnie Mouse.

My dream is to attend vet school, where I want to specialize in equine lameness. All while continuing to show my horses to many more national world and national titles, most recently being named the 2022 American Miniature Horse National Stakes Grand Champion.


Paige

Veterinary Technician

Hi, my name is Paige! Born and raised in Oregon, I have grown up playing competitive softball my whole life and absolutely loved it. I’ve also always had a passion for animals and, if I could, I would own them all. It has always been a dream of mine to work with animals in a vet clinic. Best Friends Veterinary has given me the opportunity to make my dream come true.

When I’m not at work you can find me playing with my two Blue Heelers or hanging out with my boyfriend and family.


Deanna

Veterinary Technician/Receptionist

Hi, my name is Deanna! All my life Oregon has been the place I’ve called home. Growing up I spent a lot of my time volunteering with all sorts of animals, and anything I could do to be around them and help them I would. I have always found so much joy helping animals in any way I could.

Ever since I was a little girl it has been my dream to be a part of a veterinary office. My dream is finally coming true! Working for Best Friends Veterinary Medical Center is everything I hoped for and more. It’s an honor being a part of this family.

If I’m not working, I spend most of my time with my two Australian Shepherd dogs, Bow and Astro. If I’m not with them you will find me outside fishing with my boyfriend, spending time with my chickens or with my family.


Mckenna

Veterinary Technician/Receptionist

Hi, my name is Mckenna. I was born in Oregon and have lived here all my life, though I spent many summers in New Mexico and Texas. While there out exploring I would catch turtles, salamanders, snakes and tarantulas. Once I rescued a stray kitten I found in a tunnel.

Now I have a four-year-old black labrador named Loki and 3 cats I rescued over the last few years. As you can see, I have no shortage of love for animals!


Claudia

Lead Receptionist

Hi, my name is Claudia. I was born in Mexico but raised in Oregon after arriving here at the age of five. My love of animals began from my summers spent visiting my grandparents, who had pigs and cows. One of my best memories I have was lovely summer afternoon walks with my grandpa and his dog named Oso (Bear).

It’s been amazing working at Best Friends Veterinary and having the opportunity to learn about and help these wonderful lifelong friends!

When I’m not working you will find me spending time with my family, out exploring nature or finding new places to eat with my best friend.


Haylee

Receptionist

Hi! My name is Haylee. Born and raised an Oregonian, I have had a love for animals since I was a little girl and have had a wide range of different kinds of pets. Working at Best Friends and having the opportunity to work alongside cats and dogs all day has been so fulfilling.

If I am not working you will probably find me out adventuring with my daughter or spending time with friends and family.


James

Office Manager

With a professional background managing construction crews, coaching teams of K-12th graders chess, robotics, soccer, basketball, baseball, archery, and tennis, and teaching kids of all ages everything from computer science to outdoor survival skills, now I find myself with a wonderful new challenge—helping keep the gears running smoothly in this humming veterinary clinic. I’ve always loved being around dogs and cats, but my life’s work has involved helping people. It’s my pleasure that I get to do both here at Best Friends.