Dr. Mathew Cohen DVM MS CVA is a native of Southern California. He traveled up to Northern California, where he graduated from UC Davis with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and a Master’s Degree in Animal Biology. Between classes and summers at UC Davis, he was mentored by a mixed-animal holistic veterinarian named Dr. Nancy Martin. She solidified his love for veterinary medicine, including Eastern and Western practices. She was a second family away from home and mentored him to provide the best care possible. During his Master’s, he focused on reducing greenhouse gases from the agriculture sector while improving animal welfare. He worked with Templin Grandin to redesign and construct the animal facilities at UC Davis to minimize stress and promote well-being. Dr. Cohen continued to obtain his DVM degree from the Western University of Health Sciences. During his veterinary education, he became certified in Veterinary Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine from the Chi Institute. Dr. Cohen is passionate about surgery, preventative medicine, internal medicine, and integrating Eastern and Western medicine. He understands the limitations of both philosophies and uses them to complement each other to provide the best care possible for his patients. His vision as a medical director is to provide excellent client communication, exceptional patient care, promote client education, and mentor the next generation. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife, two daughters, two Ragdoll cats (Riley and Hunter), and taking his Shepherd mix, Maze, to the dog park or beach. He also enjoys outdoor activities such as volleyball, soccer, and wakeboarding.
Dr. Roxanne Kruger is a native of Southern California with roots in Laguna Beach and Laguna Niguel. After earning her BS from the University of San Diego and the University of Redlands, Dr. Kruger pursued her passion for veterinary medicine, attaining her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Western University of Health Sciences. Her pursuit of excellence led her to VCA West Los Angeles Animal Hospital, where she immersed herself in a rotating medicine and surgery internship alongside specialists, sparking her love for emergency medicine in a fast-paced environment. Returning to her Orange County roots, Dr. Kruger embraced the role of an emergency doctor at VCA West Coast Specialty and Emergency Hospital, driven by a desire to aid pets in times of need. Her approach emphasizes communication, education, and unwavering compassion, supporting owners during stressful moments. Dr. Kruger is committed to providing the highest level of medicine while maintaining a strong dedication to lifelong learning. She is certified in Senior Dog Geriatric Medicine through The Senior Dog Veterinary Society and is a proud AVMA, CVMA, and SCVMA member, which allows her to stay at the forefront of continuing education and collaboration. She loves all aspects of veterinary medicine but is especially passionate about urgent care, emergency medicine, geriatric medicine, and internal medicine. Outside the hospital, Dr. Kruger finds balance through Pilates, outdoor adventures, and savoring a diverse array of foods. Her joy extends to cherished moments with her two daughters, husband, two Ragdoll cats (Riley and Hunter), and Dutch Shepherd mix (Maze).
A Southern California native, Chelie began her journey on a farm, fostering a deep connection with animals from an early age. Her dedication to volunteering at a local zoo showcased her commitment to the well-being of diverse species, a value that has remained integral throughout her career.
As Chelie takes the helm as our Team Head and RVT, we are excited to witness the positive impact of her wealth of experiences, medical knowledge, and profound compassion. Her journey echoes our team’s collaborative spirit and dedication to providing the highest level of care to every patient who walks through our doors.
A Southern California native, Chelie began her journey on a farm, fostering a deep connection with animals from an early age. Her dedication to volunteering at a local zoo showcased her commitment to the well-being of diverse species, a value that has remained integral throughout her career.
With a remarkable journey that includes an exotics clinic focusing on wildlife, Chelie’s experience reflects her dedication to delivering exceptional care. Her path led her through equine care, general practice, and emergency and critical care, underscoring her commitment to high-quality medicine.
Beyond her clinical roles, Chelie’s leadership success includes managing teams at a Fortune 500 company and contributing to the growth of future leaders through leadership development. Her role as a mentor to up-and-coming RVTs and a peer tutor further solidifies her commitment to knowledge-sharing and compassion-driven care.
As Chelie takes the helm as our Team Head and RVT, we are excited to witness the positive impact of her wealth of experiences, medical knowledge, and profound compassion. Her journey echoes our team’s collaborative spirit and dedication to providing the highest level of care to every patient who walks through our doors.
Meet Marlena, our newest team member at Laguna Beach Veterinary Medical Center! 🌟 With almost 17 years of experience, Marlena’s dedication and love for pets and their owners shines through in everything she does. Her passion and integrity are truly inspiring, and we’re so excited to have her on board! When she’s not here, you can find Marlena hiking, exploring new restaurants, or spending quality time with her pride and joy, T-Rex, her adorable three-year-old Tibetan spaniel.
After exploring various paths in search of the perfect career, fate intervened when her family pet faced a health crisis. Fueled by an unwavering determination to help, Irene realized that working with animals was her calling all along. Inspired by this revelation, she courageously enrolled in vet tech school, ultimately graduating and earning her RVT license.
Now, as a dedicated RVT at our hospital, Irene continues to embrace every opportunity for growth and learning. Each day presents a new challenge, and Irene meets them head-on with a commitment to providing the utmost love and care to all animals.
Liz was born and raised in Santa Ana California. She has a great love for all animals and her care for them is extraordinary. Liz started working at a doggie daycare after high school and realized she wanted her career to be in the animal field. She loves working with rescue dogs as she believes it’s rewarding being able to see them come out of their shell. Currently, she is working as Lead tech and a crucial member of our team.
When Liz is not working you can find her being out in nature with her golden retriever best friend, Cardi, either hiking or at the beach. She enjoys spending her free time going to festivals, painting, listening to music, or trying new experiences.
