DR. SARAH SYLLA, DVM

Dr. Sylla grew up in the Chicago Suburbs and wanted to become a vet starting at the age of 5. She attended the University of Minnesota for undergrad, receiving a bachelor’s degree in Science. She then went on to study veterinary medicine at the University Of Illinois. Dr. Sylla has worked in general practice, emergency medicine, and high volume spay-neuter. Her interests include surgery and solving complex
cases.

Outside of work, Dr. Sylla enjoys traveling, participating in the aerial arts, and making cake pops.

What is your educational and work background?

University of Minnesota for undergrad and received a bachelor’s degree in science

University of Illinois for Veterinary Degree

Worked in general practice for 2 years, emergency medicine for 4 years and now a little bit of everything.

What made you decide to become a vet?

Science was my favorite subject in school and I enjoyed solving complex problems. I have always loved animals and knew I wanted to work with them as a career. As a kid, my favorite shows were always on Animal Planet and when they started having ones about veterinarians, I knew that was exactly what I wanted to do. It is the perfect combination of challenging and rewarding.

Why did you decide to join the Companion team?

Dr. Lin is one of my good friends and I’ve been really impressed with his team and the work atmosphere he has created.

What is the best thing about being a vet?

Helping patients that have no voice of their own and getting to work with a variety of species.

What is one of the most common problems you’ve encountered in pets you treat?

Allergies in dogs and FLUTD in cats

Do you have any special interests in vet medicine?

Emergency medicine/critical care and surgery

What is the most unusual pet you have helped treat?

A baby peacock

What are some of your favorite activities outside of work?

Traveling, trying new restaurants, aerial acrobatics, making cake pops

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Having my personal space invaded. I am not a “hug” type of person

Favorite place to eat?

High Five Ramen in Chicago

Favorite place to visit?

Japan

Favorite food?

Candy. Sour candy is my favorite, but I’ll eat anything sweet and surgary.

Favorite movie?

World War Z, The Blind Side, and any of the Avenger movies

What are your favorite sports teams?

Anything Chicago (Blackhawks, Bears, Bulls)

Name 3 things people might be surprised to learn about you

I was a competitive figure skater for 8 years

I was born in Canada and have dual citzenship

Dr. Lin and I were classmates in vet school