Chico's Friendliest Privately Owned Dog and Cat Hospital
Accepting New Patients
Same day appts available contingent on availability
Our Veterinarians
Dr. Sandy Hazanow
How did a 1992 graduate of the Tufts University / Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine move to California and land at Riverwood in Chico?
Following vet school at Tufts in Massachusetts, I moved to Sacramento to be closer to family and attend an advanced surgery and medicine internship at the Sacramento Animal Medical Group. The following year, I joined a busy, nonprofit emergency practice in San Francisco to practice emergency medicine and surgery. During my first few years as a veterinarian, I was all about pure science. Eventually, my focus shifted from “technical“ to high level medicine + the complete human / animal experience. I sought to find ways to use science to empower pet guardians in medical decision making.
With that perspective, I cofounded Seven Hills Veterinary Hospital in San Francisco in 2011 and built a practice reflecting that ethic. In 2021, I was ready for a new adventure outside of the city. Beautiful Chico was my destination, so with the support of amazing colleagues and friends, I established Riverwood.
If I'm not at the practice or behind the scenes, you might find me fly fishing, mountain biking alongside my cattle dog, "Hatch", or hiking and fishing with my partner. Together with my team, I am excited to offer our Riverwood approach to you!
PICTURE COMING SOON!
Dr. Taylor Traxler
Riverwood Veterinary Hospital is thrilled to welcome Dr. Taylor Traxler, DVM, to our team — and we're especially excited that she's coming home.
Dr. Traxler grew up in the Chico area and has always had deep roots in this community. After pursuing her education far and wide, she's eager to bring her expertise, compassion, and dedication back to the patients and families she's always called neighbors.
Dr. Traxler earned her Bachelor of Science in Aquatic Biology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, before going on to complete her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at the prestigious UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine — one of the top veterinary programs in the world. She is currently finishing a rigorous veterinary internship at WestVet Boise, where she has sharpened her clinical skills alongside specialists in a busy, high-level hospital environment.
Her special interests include cardiology and surgery, and she is passionate about expanding access to veterinary care for all pets and their families. Dr. Traxler believes in crafting individualized treatment plans that honor the unique needs of each patient, while building lasting, trust-based relationships with the people who love them.
When she's not caring for other people's furry family members, Dr. Traxler loves the outdoors — hiking, swimming, and playing disc golf. She shares her life with her partner and their beloved rescue dog.
We couldn't be more proud to welcome Dr. Traxler to the Riverwood family. We know you'll love her as much as we do.
Our Team
Amber, RVT
As a registered veterinary technician (RVT), I have been in the field for 20 years. I was born and raised in Chico, and got my start by taking ROP in veterinary assisting. While I have experience in emergency medicine, feline only, and exotics, my heart is in small animal private practice. When I'm not at work, I enjoy concerts and camping with my family.
Lori, Client Services
Helping clients make confident decisions for their pets as a receptionist is my joy. I started my career in the ROP VA course in Chico and have been in the field for over 15 years. I enjoy making personal connections with our patients, clients, and team. In my free time, I enjoy camping, reading, spending time with family and friends & playing with my dogs Ellie Mae and Daisy May
Angeline, Vet Assistant
As a veterinary assistant at Riverwood Animal Hospital. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science, Pre-Vet from California State University, Chico (2024) and have hands-on experience assisting veterinarians during exams, treatments, and surgical procedures. I am passionate about animal welfare and dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care to every patient. Bilingual in English and Spanish, I strive to ensure every client and their pet feels welcomed and supported.
Halle, Vet Assistant
I am currently working toward my certification as a Veterinary Assistant through Butte County's ROP and be certified in June of 2026. I have also been attending Butte College for the past two years, building my knowledge and animal skills. Outside of work and school, I love reading, concerts, and taking my dog to Lake Oroville!
Justin, Client Services
I am a client service/ vet assistant and have been working in veterinary medicine since about 2005 (with an occasional break exploring other animal related fields). I ultimately returned to what I know I love which is helping pets, especially cats. In my off time, I love playing Dungeons and Dragons with my friends at a local comic shop- you can tell by the D&D face masks. I have a cat named Elistraee.
On-Site Consultants
Hatch
Security
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Anna, Practice Manager
I joined Riverwood in March 2024. Over the past 17 years, I’ve held various roles at an all-feline hospital, gaining experience that led me to become a practice manager. You’ll often find me at the front desk or assisting in treatment, as I enjoy the hands-on aspects of veterinary medicine and building client relationships. In my free time, I love exploring the outdoors with my family, going on new adventures, and creating memories with my children.
Lucy
Princess
Cara, Vet Assistant
Being in an atmosphere where animals are cared for and loved is why I got into veterinary medicine. I graduated from Butte County’s ROP Certified Vet Assisting program in 2025. Even though I am new to the field, I continue developing my skills everyday. You can often find me doing arts and crafts, camping, and traveling in my off time.
