Rochelle Veterinary Hospital Welcomes Dr. Christina Edlebeck

Dr. Christina Edlebeck has officially joined Rochelle Veterinary Hospital as the newest veterinarian, effective July 21, 2025. With a diverse upbringing in a military family across Germany, Japan, and various locations in the United States, Edlebeck now calls Illinois home. She earned her veterinary degree from Texas A&M University and brings a strong focus on senior pet wellness to her new role.

Edlebeck’s keen interest in the health of aging pets stems from her recognition of their unique needs. She emphasizes the importance of open communication with pet owners, aiming to empower them with knowledge and support for their companions. “In my fourth year of vet school, I did an externship here at Rochelle and ended up falling in love with the community and the practice,” Edlebeck shared. She described how the hospital’s welcoming atmosphere feels like family, stating, “The people here are so kind. Rochelle is rural enough to see a cool variety of cases and close enough to Chicago and universities if you need to refer something.”

Commitment to Client Education

As a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and a Fear Free Certified Professional, Edlebeck is dedicated to enhancing the relationship between veterinarians and pet owners. Her dog, Bailey, serves as both her companion and hiking partner, reflecting her commitment to animal welfare.

Rochelle Veterinary Hospital focuses on various services, including preventative care, dental procedures, and minor surgical interventions. Edlebeck believes that many conditions affecting dogs and cats are preventable through education. “I think a lot of the conditions we see in dogs and cats are easily preventable. It just takes a little bit of education,” she remarked. Her approach views veterinary medicine as a collaborative effort between veterinarians and pet owners, which she finds rewarding.

She highlighted the significant role of regular veterinary visits, recommending that pets receive examinations at least once a year to identify potential health issues early. “Now more than ever, people’s animals mean a lot to them,” Edlebeck noted. Her observations indicate a growing trend where pets are increasingly viewed as family members, resulting in more frequent veterinary visits.

Understanding the Human-Animal Bond

The emotional connection between pets and their owners is a central theme in Edlebeck’s practice. “The amount of people having dogs instead of kids is growing,” she explained. “To be able to treat someone’s family member is so meaningful to me, and it means a lot to them.” She likens the experience of caring for pets to that of treating a loved one, emphasizing the profound bond that exists.

Edlebeck’s dedication to her new role at Rochelle Veterinary Hospital underscores a broader cultural shift in how pet ownership is perceived. The emotional investment people make in their pets highlights the importance of veterinary care in maintaining their health and well-being. As she continues her work, Edlebeck is set on fostering strong partnerships with pet owners, ensuring that their beloved companions receive the best possible care.