Deborah Schelkopf, DVM - Owner,
Small Animal Veterinarian

A small animal practitioner and partner at Bethany Animal Hospital, Dr. Shelkopf received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Illinois in 1974. As an undergraduate and as a veterinary student, she also worked part-time for a pet food company and at a research kennel facility, as well as assisting with research and histopathology at the College of Veterinary Medicine. In 1978 she was awarded her DVM degree by the University of Illinois.

Dr. Schelkopf practices general small animal medicine in addition to management responsibilities. She is a member of the DeKalb County Board of Health and several veterinary medicine associations. Her most important achievements are her three children to whom she devotes as much time as possible. She also enjoys reading, gardening, and time spent with her family, Labrador Retriever, Katie, and cats Ronald and Mama.

Carlos Dominguez, DVM - Small Animal Veterinarian

Having received his undergraduate degree from Kansas State University in 1987, Dr. Dominguez was admitted to the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. After completing the 4 year curriculum at Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, he received his DVM degree in 1991.

Dr. Dominguez is a general small animal practitioner with special interests in orthopedic surgery and exotic animal medicine. Aside from his responsibilities at the hospital, he enjoys spending time with his 4 children, reading and playing a variety of sports.

Dr. Dominguez actively participates in several medical organizations, including The American Veterinary Medical Association, The American Animal Hospital Association, The Northern Illinois Veterinary Medical Association, and The Association of Avian Veterinarians.

LeAnn Gruber, DVM - Small Animal Veterinarian

Dr. Gruber graduated from Western Illinois University in 1997 with a degree in biology, and continued her education at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, where she graduated in 2001. Right out of school she joined the staff at Bethany Animal Hospital.

A general small animal practitioner, Dr. Gruber's professional interests include companion animal medicine, soft tissue surgery and opthalmology.

Dr. Gruber's outside interests include walking, bicycling, crafts, bowling, baking, and gardening. She particulary enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and caring for her two cats, Reggie and Eli.

George Balster, DVM - Hospital Director,
Small Animal Veterinarian

Dr. Balster graduated from Iowa State Univeristy in 1970. He has been hospital director and veterinarian at Bethany Animal Hospital since 1984. Previous to his arrival at Bethany, Dr. Balster worked as associate veterinarian in Arizona and Iowa and co-owned a hospital in Dixon, IL for 10 years.

Having received both his undergraduate and DVM degrees from Iowa State University, Dr. Balster is a general small animal veterinarian. Along with his duties as hospital director, Dr. Balster has received special training and has an interest in veterinary endoscopy and orthopedic surgery.

Even with his busy career, Dr. Balster finds time for outside activities. He is a past member and president of the Kishwaukee Kiwanis Club and past president of the DeKalb County Board of Health. Hobbies include downhill and cross country skiing, running and fishing. Dr. Balster also travels across the country with his horse Smokey doing cowboy mounted shooting.