Welcome to our new website... edits in progress!

Welcome to our new website... edits in progress!

Exquisite Veterinary Care You Can Trust

Since 1987, Otter Lake Animal Care Center has treated every pet like family. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care, clear communication, and a satisfying experience for both you and your pet. From routine wellness visits to medical concerns, we’re here to support your pet’s health at every stage.

LEARN MORE

Client Testimonials

  • "I was very happy with my first visit, staff was amazing, clinic was very clean, I've already recommended Otter Lake Animal Care Center to other people. Thank you so much!"

  • "Everyone is so very kind and helpful. You get a full explanation of what is wrong with your pet. You and your pet get excellent care and they truly care about you and your pet. Highly recommend."

  • "Dr. Barb is the best! She cares about my dog and really knows her. Dr. Barb makes the entire appointment about her. I trust Dr. Barb!"

  • "Highly recommend Otter Lake! We’ve trusted them with our pets for many years. Recently, our dog had surgery, and they stayed late into the evening until he could come home. During this time, a liver disease was discovered, and they developed a comprehensive treatment plan for this uncommon diagnosis. Six months later, his recovery seems to be going well. We recently had a consultation with the U of M Veterinary Medical Center. After reviewing his record, the doctor's first comment was, “You have a great primary care vet - they’re doing everything right. Hold on to them!” We couldn't agree more! We are grateful for the expertise, dedication, and compassion of the staff at Otter Lake!"

  • "Great care and concern for not only your pet but you as well. They completely explain everything that is needed for your pet. They go above and beyond for your pet. This is the ONLY vet I will go to. Highly recommend!"

  • "I drive over 20 miles to go to Otter Lake Animal Care Center to have Dr. Barb Ault! She is kind and gentle with my large German shepherds. Dr. Barb takes the time to get to know their personalities and they just walk right into her lap."

  • "The affection each of these ladies gives to my girl is amazing. Dr. Scanlan is one of a kind. Gentle and calming and very time efficient! I will never go anywhere else!"

  • "Dr Scanlan is amazing. From the moment he walked into the exam room, he had a calming effect on who never once even tried to jump on him but just sat down in front of him. We have finally found our vet! The team there is also wonderful."

  • "Dr. Barb Ault is the best! She literally got down on the floor with my dog to put her at ease. My pup even took a treat from Dr. Ault, which she won't even do with me! Dr. Ault answered all my questions and provided valuable insight into what could be ailing my pup, and gave an accurate cost estimate on lab work before performing it. Dr. Scanlan called on Christmas Eve with the lab results, going above and beyond so I didn't have to worry over Christmas as to the health of my pup. This vet clinic is wonderful, the staff is wonderful, and I'm so glad I switched from Banfield! Thank you all for being so helpful and supportive (and affordable)."

  • "Dr Scanlan is the best. His love for animals is very evident. I have been bringing my dog children there since they were puppies. He doesn't gouge with unnecessary procedures. His staff is wonderful, they are very loving with the animals that come in. I highly recommend his practice."

  • "Our Vet was an absolute delight! She was personable and professional. We look forward to returning for our needs!"

Services


Maintaining your pet’s health is at the heart of everything we do. From routine wellness care to medical concerns and surgical needs, our team is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality veterinary care tailored to each pet. We focus on clear communication, preventive medicine, and thoughtful treatment plans to support your pet through every stage of life.

PREVENTATIVE CARE

Preventative care is the foundation of a long, healthy life for your pet. Routine wellness exams allow us to detect changes early, discuss nutrition and lifestyle needs, and keep vaccinations up to date so your pet stays happy and thriving.

Learn more about our preventative care services…

GROOMING

Our grooming services help keep your pet comfortable, clean, and looking heir best. Whether your pet needs a routine bath or light grooming, our groomer provides gentle, attentive care in a familiar veterinary setting.

Learn more about our groomer…

MEDICAL CONCERNS

When your pet isn’t feeling well, our team is here to help. We evaluate illness and injury with thorough exams and diagnostic testing, then create individualized treatment plans to get your pet feeling better as quickly and comfortably as possible.

View our medical services…

BOARDING

When you’re away, you can trust your pet is in good hands. Our boarding services provide a safe, comfortable environment with on-site veterinary support. Boarding your pet with us gives you a peace of mind while you’re gone.

View more information on boarding services…

SURGERY

We offer a variety of surgical procedures with your pet’s safety and comfort as our top priorities. From routine surgeries to medically necessary procedures, we use modern monitoring, pain management, and attentive post-operative care every step of the way.

Explore our surgical services…

POLICE IMPOUNDING

Our clinic works with local law enforcement to provide temporary housing and care for impounded animals. Pets in our care receive safe housing, basic daily care, and veterinary attention as needed until they are reclaimed or transferred from our care.

Learn more about police impound housing…

Our clinic is not equipped to handle veterinary emergencies. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, we recommend seeking care at a local emergency hospital where 24-hour monitoring, advanced diagnostics, and critical care services are available.

URGENT CARE:

Aurora Urgent Vet (WBL): 651-422-7387 Urgent Vet (Coon Rapids): 612-431-7500

EMERGENCY CARE:

AERC (Oakdale): 651-501-3766 AERC (St. Paul): 651-293-1800
U of M: 612-626-8387 Como Park: 651-487-3255
Allied (Anoka): 763-923-1200 Blue Pearl (Arden Hills): 763-754-5000

If you are unsure whether your pet needs urgent or emergency care, click here.

Meet Our Staff

At Otter Lake Animal Care Center, we pride ourselves on our knowledgeable, dedicated, compassionate, and hard working employees that are always willing to help in any way possible.


Our Veterinarians

Dr. Wayne Scanlan

VETERINARIAN
OWNER

My name is Wayne Scanlan and my hometown is Williston, North Dakota. I graduated from the University of Minnesota DVM in 1975 and have been actively practicing since. I have three dogs who’s names are Zora (Boxer), Ovette (Boxer) and Zeus (French Bulldog). In addition to my dogs, I have Thoroughbred Race Horses that run both locally and nationally. 

I decided to become a Veterinarian as a young boy after watching Veterinarians working on our farm animals on our ranch in North Dakota. I came to Minnesota to go to the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine.  While in college, I realized I much preferred working with people and their pets.  That led me to stay in the Twin Cities upon graduating in 1975. I have worked as a small animal Veterinarian in the White Bear Lake/Hugo area since getting my degree.

My interests include Orthopedic Surgery and working with breed rescue groups.  I reside in Hugo with my wife and our dogs. 

I look forward to working with you closely to obtain your pets healthy life!

Dr. Barb Ault

VETERINARIAN

My name is Dr. Barbara J. Ault, DVM, but I prefer you just call me Barb! I started at OLACC in December of 2023. I have been welcomed to the staff with open arms and enjoy working here.

Being a veterinarian has always been my life's ambition since finding out there was doctors for animals when I was a child. Women were actively discouraged from becoming vets when I graduated from Manchester College in 1971 (BA, History), so I went to law school (Oklahoma City University School of Law, JD 1976). I didn't love being a lawyer, but many women who were denied their calling went to law school, then the law changed.

When I couldn't bear the thought of not trying to become the person I was supposed to be, I began Pre-Vet courses, and to my amazement, got into vet school (University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, DVM 1997).

Veterinary medicine is the best profession ever made by humans. Caring for animals and the people who love them is a pure joy. Even when there is nothing more we can do for a pet, helping them to leave us without pain and fear and being held by loving arms is a beautiful end to a well-lived life. I'm close enough to the finish line to know how important that is.

Outside of my life as a veterinarian, I have 2 dogs Bernie (Westie Mix) and my puppy Waldo (a deaf Boston Terrier, or as I like to call him a Boston Terrorist). I have 3 cats Rufus the Goofus, Romeo and Penny. We recently lost Osama Bin Lurkin, the hairy terrorist who was my soulmate.

Mia Ojczyk

DVM GRADUATE

BIOGRAPHY COMING SOON…

Our Veterinary Care Team

Natalie

OFFICE MANAGER | VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

Natalie joined the OLACC team in October 2019. She began her journey behind the scenes as a kennel attendant and, through hard work and dedication, grew into an on-the-job trained veterinary technician. In addition to her strong clinical skills, Natalie is an essential part of our leadership team and serves as our Office Manager.

Outside the clinic, Natalie loves spending time with her husband and son. At home, she cares for three beloved pets: Rhett, her poodle; Bruce, her chihuahua; and Otter, her orange tabby. Both Bruce and Otter were rescued through the clinic, where Natalie helped give them a furever home.

CLINIC MANAGER | VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

Amanda

Amanda joined the OLACC team in December of 2021 as a Veterinary Assistant. About six months into working at the clinic, Amanda began assisting Dr. Scanlan in surgery. The more time she spent helping, the more she was able to learn. She learned how to run lab work, perform blood draws, give vaccinations, and other various duties of a technician. Amanda is currently enrolled in Ashworth College’s Veterinary Technician program to earn her certification, with an expected graduation date of April 2026. In addition to her technician ability, Amanda is a member of our leadership team and serves as our Clinic Manager.

Amanda commutes to work, living in Northwestern Wisconsin. Outside of work, Amanda enjoys spending time with her husband, her two Labrador Retrievers Buck and Sniper (pictured to the left), and her four cats Honey, Peaches, Poppy and Brie. Her hobbies include reading, writing, going to the gym, and watching movies. When weather permits she also enjoys riding motorcycle, owning a 2008 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200.

VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

Denise

Denise returned to OLACC in April of 2023 after a 3 year hiatus. Denise previously worked at the clinic from March of 2011 until early 2020. Denise attended Minnesota School of Business and majored in Veterinary Technology, earning her diploma in 2010. While Denise is at work she enjoys drawing blood, helping with restraint, and interacting with clients. When you visit our clinic, Denise is always ready to help (and chat up a storm)!

Denise commutes from her 80-acre-home up north. She enjoys reading, spending time outdoors, and spreading her love for animals. Denise has two dogs Kip (Texas Heeler) and Dyna (French Bulldog). She also has a small collection of cats! Her current number of cats at home is 5! 

Outside of her fur family, she lives at home with her husband and two children named Austin and Morgan (you may see them running around the clinic)!

VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

Daylynn

Daylynn started at OLACC in June of 2022. Daylynn quickly excelled at the clinic and was shown a variety of skills. She currently spends her time helping with surgery, performing tech calls such as blood draws and giving vaccinations, as well as helping clients up front.

Outside of work, Daylynn enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading, watching movies, hiking, kayaking, camping and going out on the pontoon. She has two dogs, Rosie and Hazey, as well as her two cats, Smurf and Opal. She also enjoys exotics and has previously cared for three female adult rats and a corn snake.

VETERINARY TECHNICIAN STUDENT

Sydney

Sydney started at OLACC as a Kennel Attendant in September 2021, then moved her way up to Veterinary Assistant! Sydney had a lot of animals growing up. She also grew up going to her aunts farm every summer and loved being around ALL animals.

Being a Veterinary Assistant Sydney has learned how to restrain and do nail trims. She has also learned some vet tech skills such as drawing blood, giving vaccines and running various lab work. Sydney also loves the role of interacting with clients and helping them in any way she possibly can! Sydney said she couldn't see herself in any other field and not doing what she loves working with animals.

Sydney has lived about 5 minutes away from OLACC her whole life. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family. She also really loves being in the outdoors and traveling around the states. She loves spending time with her family dog Roodie and her 5 family cats Lulu, Baby Kitty, Georgia, Honey and Binx. However she especially loves spending time with her own kitty Otis and her beloved bully mix, Bentley (whom she rescued from our clinic as a stray).

VETERINARY ASSISTANT

Cambria

Cambria has been a valued member of the OLACC team since September 2012. She began her career as a Kennel Assistant and has since grown into her current role as a receptionist and Veterinary Assistant.

Cambria has always had a big heart for animals. She grew up on a hobby farm surrounded by chickens, sheep, cows, pigs, cats, a dog, and a horse. Today, she shares her home with her Olde English Bulldogge, Chica, and her cat, Ava.

Outside of work, Cambria enjoys spending time with her husband, Dane, their daughter, Loretta, and the rest of her family. In her free time, she loves attending church, being outdoors, and going out to eat.

VETERINARY ASSISTANT

Autumn

Autumn started at OLACC as a Kennel Attendant in the fall of 2021. She excelled as our primary Kennel employee, and was promoted to Veterinary Receptionist in October of 2024. Autumn enjoys helping our clients and being able to make their day a little bit better.

Autumn has two poodles at home named Moe and Milton. She lives at home with her family, who she enjoys spending free time with, as well as her friends. She is also a college student, and is currently enrolled at Dunwoody studying in their radiology program!

VETERINARY RECEPTIONIST

Alyssa

Alyssa joined the OLACC team in March of 2025! Alyssa works part-time while attending Minnesota State Mankato, where she is pursuing a degree in Law Enforcement.

When she’s not balancing school and work, Alyssa enjoys spending time outdoors, whether that’s going to the gym, fishing, or simply enjoying fresh air.

At home, Alyssa shares her life with her sweet 2-year-old pup, Nala.

VETERINARY RECEPTIONIST

Sommer

Sommer joined the OLACC team in July of 2024 as a kennel attendant! At the beginning of summer 2025, she started training up front as a veterinary receptionist. 

Sommer is currently enrolled in college at Penn Foster, working toward her goal of becoming a Veterinary Assistant—taking one step closer to a lifelong career in animal care. She has loved animals her entire life, and that passion has guided her toward a future devoted to helping them.

When she’s not working or studying, she enjoys spending time with her boyfriend and family, exploring new UTV trails, fishing, days on the lake, and hunting. She also enjoys cozy fall evenings by a bonfire and looks forward to the quiet beauty of wintertime, especially spending time outdoors in the snow.

Life at home is lively thanks to Sommer’s two beloved dogs. Willow, a playful German Shepherd mix, is always ready for adventure, while Oakley, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever, is loyal, affectionate, and completely obsessed with muddy water. Animals have always been at the heart of Sommer’s life—and now, they’re at the center of her future.

VETERINARY RECEPTIONIST

Jackie

Biography coming soon...

Our Kennel Staff

KENNEL ATTENDANT

Izzy

Izzy has been with us since October of 2023. She is passionate about animals and veterinary medicine, also holding a full-time position as a Veterinary Technician Assistant at the Animal Emergency & Referral Center in Oakdale. Izzy has a bunny at home named Eggbert who knows how to do tricks.

Outside of her love for animals, Izzy says that she needs caffeine to function. She always has an energy drink when she’s on shift. She loves to draw, paint, and play video games.


KENNEL ATTENDANT

Sydney

Sydney began working with us at the start of 2025. She is a bright and charismatic addition to our team!

Sydney loves spending time with her own dogs at the park, swimming with her varsity high school team, listening to music, watching movies, and painting. She also has a great eye for style, always on the lookout for unique vintage and secondhand treasures when she goes thrifting!

KENNEL ATTENDANT

Megan

Megan is currently a high school student with a passion for psychology and hopes to pursue it further in the future.

When she’s not caring for our furry friends, Megan loves spending time with her friends and family. She has a sweet dog named Wall-E who keeps her busy at home. Outside of school and work, Megan enjoys painting, creating art, and designing her own jewelry and clothes. She’s also a big fan of thrifting and antique shopping—always on the lookout for unique treasures!

KENNEL ATTENDANT

Jade

Jade is a true creative spirit. She loves to paint, sculpt, sing, listen to music, and watch horror movies. Whether she’s caring for animals or making art, Jade brings passion and heart to everything she does.

Looking toward the future, Jade plans to become an esthetician, and she hopes that wherever life takes her, she’ll always come home to dogs.

KENNEL ATTENDANT

Rayne

BIOGRAPHY COMING SOON…

Our Groomer

GROOMER

Marie

BIOGRAPHY COMING SOON…