All Creatures receives 2011 Newcomer to the Chamber award

For Rick Janka, a typical day at the office might include everything from paws, claws and hooves to snouts, whiskers and muzzles.

“We do it all,” Janka said of All Creatures Veterinary Clinic. “We (treat) anything from dogs and cats, farm animals, sheep, elk.”

That list, the veterinarian added, also includes chickens, hamsters, cows and pot belly pigs.

Last month, the Red Wing Area Chamber of Commerce awarded the all-inclusive clinic with its 2011 Newcomer to the Chamber award.

“It’s a very nice recognition. I’m happy for the staff,” Janka said. “They deserve that recognition.”

Janka has been a veterinarian in Red Wing for 27 years. He previously owned Hiawatha Valley Veterinary Clinic before changing its name to the James Harriot-inspired All Creatures and moving to the current 431 Guernsey Lane location in 1995.

Still, it was only about a year ago that the clinic — which serves an area that includes Goodhue, Wabasha, Dakota and Pierce counties — became a chamber member.

“I thought it was a good organization. I think they do an excellent job,” Janka said of his reason for joining the organization.

The chamber caught Janka’s attention while he was serving on the board of directors for the Goodhue County Humane Society, which is also a chamber member.

“I’m impressed by the amount of activities (the chamber has) lined up,” he said. “They’re able to bring people to those events.”

Being able to interact with other businesses in town at those events is one of the biggest benefits to being a chamber member, Janka said.

“The exposure … the camaraderie,” he said.

Currently, All Creatures has four veterinarians on staff: Kevin Funk, who specializes in large animal medicine; Jennifer Scott and Lorelei Kruse, who specialize in small animals; and Janka, who treats both.

The staff also includes seven veterinary technicians and two receptionists.

Looking ahead, Janka said All Creatures will continue to provide the same services that the clinic has for the past 17 years. That includes complete medical, surgical and dental services, as well as laboratory diagnostics and radiology.

“No major changes as far as that goes,” he said.

However, the clinic is planning to add digital radiology and begin offering more nutritional counseling.

But for now, as Janka and his staff gear up for a busy birthing season, the veterinarian said he’s pleased with his clinic’s and the chamber’s new relationship.

“We’re happy to be a chamber member,” he said. “They’re doing well for the community, strengthening the economy and environment.”

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