Dr. Adam Hechko
Dr. Hechko grew up in Columbia Station, Ohio, and began his journey in veterinary medicine at the University of Findlay, where he earned his undergraduate degree in pre-veterinary medicine. He went on to graduate from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, proudly joining the ranks of Buckeye alumni.
A dedicated leader in his profession, Dr. Hechko has served as President and Board Member of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), and he currently represents the organization as a delegate to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). His commitment to animal health and veterinary excellence is also reflected in his role on the Board of Directors for the Cleveland Zoo Society, where he collaborates with zoo leadership and donors to support animal welfare, education, and conservation efforts.
As a veterinarian, Dr. Hechko is passionate about animal care and deeply values the special bond we share with our pets. He believes in the power of the human-animal connection and is dedicated to supporting the lifelong health and happiness of the pets in our community. It is especially important to him to lead a veterinary practice that focuses on compassionate care, wellness, and client education—creating an environment where pets receive the highest quality of care and families feel supported and empowered in their roles as pet owners.
Dr. Hechko and his wife, Dr. Jen, are proud members of the Northeast Ohio community. Dr. Jen is a pediatric dentist and owner of Brecksville Kids Dentistry, a local practice known not only for its exceptional care but also for its warm, welcoming atmosphere. The practice includes two therapy dogs, who help ease the stress of dental visits for young patients—an innovative approach that reflects the couple’s shared belief in the healing and calming power of animals.
They are proud parents of three children: Alexander, Benjamin, and Catherine. Dr. Hechko actively supports his children’s athletic and personal development, cheering them on at soccer and lacrosse games and serving as an assistant Scout leader, particularly involved in guiding his sons on their path toward Eagle Scout.
He is also active in supporting his children and other youth in the North Royalton Homesteaders 4-H group. Through his involvement, Dr. Hechko helps instill the core values of 4-H—Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. These principles encourage young people to develop leadership, responsibility, compassion, and practical skills in agriculture and beyond. By engaging in hands-on learning and community involvement, 4-H participants grow into capable, confident, and service-minded individuals—values that closely align with Dr. Hechko’s own commitment to family, education, and local engagement.
In his spare time, Dr. Hechko enjoys farming with his family and spending time outdoors. Whether cultivating their land, supporting local programs, or simply exploring nature together, he values the opportunity to live, work, and give back alongside his family.
Medical Director
Dr. Rachael Shivak
Dr. Rachael Shivak grew up in North Royalton, Ohio. She earned her B.S. in Biology with an Animal Science minor from The Ohio State University (Go Bucks!). She earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University with an emphasis in small animal medicine. She returned to the Cleveland area to practice because she loves her hometown. Dr. Shivak has two Labradors named Dolly and Maple, as well as a rabbit named Russell. Her veterinary interests include neurology and cardiology. A few things that she enjoys at NRAH: new puppy/kitten exams and seeing your pet pictures!
Medical Director
Dr. Makenzi Travis
Dr. Makenzi Travis grew up in Bay Village, Ohio. After graduating from Indiana University, she spent two years living abroad and volunteering in Cambodia. Dr. Travis attended the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine where she developed interests in internal medicine, nutrition, and multimodal pain management. Dr. Travis is a published author in Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia.
Dr. Travis lives in Avon Lake with her husband who is an attorney, two golden retrievers, and senior cat. She is an active member of the Cuyahoga Valley Golden Retriever Club and is passionate about the unique health needs of this breed. When she’s not practicing medicine, she enjoys canine dock diving and traveling anywhere tropical.
Medical Director
Dr. Natalie Singleton
Dr. Singleton grew up in Indiana with lots of pets. By the age of 5, she knew she wanted to be a veterinarian. Pursuing this dream led her to Purdue University where she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Singleton loves strengthening the human-animal bond and is passionate about all things feline, senior pets, and managing patient stress.
When not at work, Dr. Singleton can be found with her fiance exploring their new Cleveland neighborhood, planning the next National Park trip, and finding new restaurants to enjoy. Her hands and lap are quite full with cats at the moment, but she hopes to add a rescue pup (or two!) in the near future.
Medical Director
Dr. Emily Wood
Dr. Emily Wood graduated from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine in
2004. She is particularly interested in working dogs, and is currently completing training through
University of Pennsylvania Veterinary Medicine to become a Certified Working Dog Practitioner.
Through this program, she is growing her skillset in the management of musculoskeletal issues and rehabilitation strategies to better meet the needs of working dogs and their handlers.
Dr. Wood and her 2 human children, Lilly and Jack, share their home with multiple fur-children:
Willow and Minkey - 2 dogs, Hedwig - a cat, and 2 goldfish Bob and Loki. She loves reading a
good book, cooking tasty meals, practicing yoga, and getting outdoors through activities like
hiking.
Medical Director
Dr. Mary Swiger
Dr. Swiger grew up in Parma, Ohio, and went on to Baldwin Wallace University to complete her undergraduate degree in Biology. She earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine with an emphasis on small animal medicine. Dr. Swiger is passionate about preventative medicine, and dermatology, in addition to soft tissue surgery and dentistry.
Dr. Swiger resides in North Royalton with her husband, son Leo, and one cat, Snowflake. When she is not practicing veterinary medicine- Dr. Swiger enjoys spending time with her family, running, and being outdoors.
Medical Director