🐾 A Legacy of Care, Compassion, and Community 🐾
Before Oronoque Animal Hospital was what it is today, it began with a vision and one veterinarian’s unwavering dedication to animals, their families, and the community.
Nearly 49 years ago, Dr. Sheldon Yessenow left his hometown of Lima, Ohio after graduating from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine and opened the doors of Oronoque Animal Hospital with a simple but powerful mission: to provide exceptional veterinary care with compassion, integrity, and heart. From Stratford to communities across Connecticut and beyond, his impact has reached further than most could imagine.
Throughout his remarkable career, Dr. Yessenow consistently went above and beyond for his patients and clients. He has been a trusted veterinarian, mentor and teacher to countless veterinarians and veterinary technicians who trained under his guidance. His dedication to service extended well beyond the walls of our hospital. In recognition of his commitment to both medicine and community, he was honored by the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association with the well-deserved title of Veterinarian of the Year in 2006.
Dr. Yessenow’s service to others also included his time as a volunteer EMT for the town of Trumbull. His interest in disaster medicine was sparked after September 11, 2001, when he responded to assist the search and rescue dogs at the World Trade Center in New York City. Shortly thereafter, he was accepted as a member of the Veterinary Medical Assistance Team and, in 2005, deployed to New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. During this mission in New Orleans, Dr. Yessenow served as Hospital Director for the temporary shelter at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center, providing leadership, expertise, and compassion during an incredibly challenging time.
Further demonstrating his commitment to emergency preparedness and animal welfare, Dr Yessenow accepted the position of Team Leader for the Connecticut State Animal Response Team (CTSTART) program’s Region 1 Animal Response Team. In his capacity, he was appointed Regional Emergency Support Function 11 Committee Chairman for the Region 1 Emergency Planning Team (REPT). The Region 1 REPT serves as a coordinating body for the Connecticut Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, ensuring organized and effective response efforts during emergencies affecting both animals and the community.
Oronoque Animal Hospital simply would not exist without Dr. Yessenow’s vision, leadership, and lifelong commitment. The Veterinary field itself is better because of his many contributions.
Dr. Yessenow–lovingly known as “Doc” to so many, has decided to step into a well-earned retirement; we, the doctors and staff of Oronoque Animal Hospital, celebrate not only the extraordinary veterinarian he has been, but also the wonderful husband, devoted father, and proud grandfather he is today. His compassion, work ethic, and dedication have left an indelible mark on Oronoque Animal Hospital and on everyone who has had the privilege to work alongside him.
We know many of our clients will want the opportunity to share their gratitude or stay in touch. If you would like to reach out to Dr.Yessenow directly, you may contact him at:
📧 dr.yessenow.oah@gmail.com
From all of us at Oronoque Animal Hospital past and present thank you, Doc, for the decades of care, mentorship, and love you poured into this veterinary practice. Your legacy will live on through the hospital you built and the lives you touched along the way.💙🐾
