We would like to welcome Dr. Abby Jean Leonardi to the VCA team. 

Dr. Leonardi is from Edwardsville, IL. She received her B.S. at the University of Illinois in Molecular and Cellular Biology with a minor in Animal Sciences. She completed her DVM degree at the University of Illinois as well. Dr. Leonardi completed a Small Animal Medicine and Surgery internship at the University of Missouri before completing a Comparative Oncology residency at Purdue University. She also completed a Master's degree during that time. Dr. Leonardi has completed research endeavors related to bioengineering of protein constructs, mouse models assessing the influence of maternal gut microbiome on the manifestation of autism spectrum disorder, solitary osseous plasmacytomas, nasal planum squamous cell carcinoma, and both veterinarian and pet owner perceptions of chemotherapy-related adverse events. 

Some prominent/common cancers treated include lymphoma, osteosarcoma, melanoma, soft tissue sarcoma, and mast cell tumors. She is willing to do a full diagnostic workup for select cases when possible which may include biopsy, bone marrow aspirate, staging, and immunophenotyping depending on the suspected diagnosis.

She finds the bond she creates with both the families and the pets she's lucky enough to meet the most rewarding part of her job. Dr. Leonardi has two cats and a dog. She enjoys gardening, hiking, and going to trivia nights. She's looking forward to exploring her new home here in Omaha, especially the zoo!