For Jenna Mayer, veterinary medicine isn’t something she discovered—it’s something she grew up inside. Her mother, Jayne, was Eau Claire Animal Hospital’s (Eau Claire, WI) practice manager for 20 years and later owned the clinic prior to its transition to Lakefield.
“I was raised here,” Jenna says. “From running circles around the old building to writing on the studs that hold the walls together—I’ve been part of this hospital my entire life.” That sense of belonging and personal investment is what shaped her career.
Making a Difference – Beyond Clinical Care
One moment that defines Jenna’s impact involved an elderly man struggling to navigate care for his very sick dog. Recognizing his confusion and distress, Jenna stepped in—drawing on her background in memory care.
When the pet needed to be transferred to an emergency hospital and he had no way to get there, Jenna drove them herself. She stayed by his side throughout the visit and didn’t leave until he felt ready.
“His family reached out to thank me afterward,” she recalls. “But truthfully, I was the one who was thankful because I made a friend that day.” The dog fully recovered and returned home.
Pride in Team, Relationships, and Growth
Jenna started as a receptionist and is now leading a thriving hospital. What she’s most proud of isn’t the promotion—it’s the relationships.
“Almost every client leaves here feeling like part of the ECAH family,” she says. “I learn their stories, greet them by name, and make sure they feel known and cared for—from their first appointment to their last.” Longtime clients even refer to her as their “adopted daughter.”
Internally, hospital retention tells the story of their culture. “We’ve had team members stay 10, 20, 30 years. That says everything.”
Partnering With Lakefield – Support That Builds Leaders
When Jenna took on hospital leadership after Lakefield purchased the practice in 2023, she had minimal management experience.
“Lakefield put trust in me before I knew how to trust myself,” she says. Leadership development opportunities, including a 12-week Veterinary Manager course, helped build her confidence and skill set.
Her Area Manager, Amy Gunderson, played a pivotal role: “Her support is unmatched. She’s always a phone call away, encourages me to find solutions, and steps in when I need guidance.”
