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Our Veterinarians

Our Caring & Compassionate Veterinary Team!

Meet the Veterinarians & Team of Kanata Highlands Veterinary Hospital in Kanata, ON! We’re pleased to provide exceptional vet care for your pets!

Please call us at 613-317-1716 to speak to one of our caring veterinary staff members!

Dr. Michael James

Veterinarian

Dr. James was born in Montreal and grew up in Ottawa.  His family always had dogs and cats and after his family moved from the city to a farm in Almonte, they also raised Thoroughbred horses and Hereford beef cattle.  His love for all animals and experience from working on the family farm drew him to a career in veterinary medicine.  

Dr. James attended the University of Guelph where he earned an undergraduate degree in Science and then his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 2002. 

He is a general practitioner with areas of interest in ophthalmology, internal medicine, diagnostic imaging and preventive care.  His interests in business and the veterinary industry also led him to complete an Executive MBA from Queen’s University in 2013. 

When not spending time at the hospital, Michael, along with his wife and their three children, are busy with a variety of sports and activities the Ottawa region has to offer.

They share their home with a cat named Angus, a frisky orange tabby. 

Qualifications:

  • Masters Business Administration, (Executive MBA), June 2013, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), May 2002, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON
  • Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences, May 1998, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON

Dr. David Vanderzon

Veterinarian

David was born in a suburb north west of Toronto. Realizing his interest in science and his fascination with animals, he set his sights on a career in veterinary medicine.  He completed an honours Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Guelph before graduating from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2002. David prides himself on being a well-rounded general practitioner and he strives to bring the highest level of care to all his patients.

Outside of work, David’s time is taken up finding excuses not to exercise and avoiding home projects.  So… having two young boys, busy with their own activities is the perfect cover. 

Together with his wife (and said boys) they enjoy taking in a good movie and various outdoor activities including running, skiing (both types), mountain biking and camping.

They share their home with two cats (Moose and Vegas) and a dog named Hazel.

Qualifications:

  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), May 2002, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON
  • Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Science, May 1998, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON

Dr. Lisa Ypma

Veterinarian

Dr. Ypma was raised in Prince Edward County and expanded on her love of animals by working at a veterinary clinic and equestrian stables. Her respect for the unconditional love of animals, combined with a passion for science, medicine, and connecting with people made becoming a veterinarian an unwavering choice!  

Dr. Ypma studied at the University of Guelph and graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2000.  Since then, she has practised in both emergency and traditional veterinary hospitals in the Ottawa area.  She enjoys the scope of medical, surgical and dental conditions encountered daily and embraces fear free techniques which respect the human-animal bond.  Lisa places high priority on communicating options to clients and providing thorough patient care. She has maintained enthusiasm for continued learning and enjoys sharing and mentoring aspects of this with others.

Lisa’s greatest joy is being a mother and raising 2 sons together with her husband.  For relaxation, she enjoys gardening, serving as a volunteer and spending time at the cottage.  Currently, their senior Siamese, Wendel, presides over most household activities and attracts a lot of attention! 

Qualifications:

  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), May 2000, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON