Meet Our Staff!

We look forward to helping you!

Management & Registered Veterinary Technicians

Lisa Norkunas, RVT/Hospital Director:
Lisa has been with Rialto Animal Hospital since 1995. As a child, she and all those around her knew it was "her calling" to work with animals and work in the field of medicine. She graduated with honors from Cal Poly Pomona in 2003 and remains a member of the Golden Key Society. She received her Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) certification in 2003 shortly after graduating.  Lisa accepted our hospital manager position in June 2003, and became the hospital director in December 2005. She is a member of the Inland Valley Veterinary Technician Association. Rialto Animal Hospital, our clients and their pets are her "second family" (half the time we have to "kick her out of here" so she can spend time with her own family!!!) 

When not working, Lisa loves to spend time with her husband, two daughters & son, and four-legged kids Maverick and Montana.  She also enjoys boating, skiing, wakeboarding, hiking, reading, and playing on her adult co-ed softball team.




Leslie Tortez, RVT:
Leslie joined the Rialto Animal Hospital family in January 2006.  A life-long resident of San Bernardino, she has always had a menagerie of pets and  knew early on that she wanted to have a career involving animals. Leslie obtained her Registered Veterinary Technician License in 1983 and has enjoyed this occupation ever since.  She is a co-founder of the Inland Valley Veterinary Technician Association (founded in 1991) and currently serves as Treasurer on the Board of Directors.

Leslie is married with a daughter in college. Her interests include antiques, art, gardening, and she is an avid Lucille Ball admirer. She currently has an array of furry (and not-so-furry!) friends at home including dogs, cats, rabbits, and tortoises.





 

Our Assistant/Technician Team:

Our amazing veterinary assistant/technician team has a combined total of over 70 years experience between them.  Most have or are going through formal training, whether that be an accredited technician program or a University, graduating with their four-year degrees in Animal Science. We are also very proud to say that we have had some of our staff apply (and be accepted) to veterinary school. These people work hard, and they are devoted to doing their best for our patients and their people!  Pictured are Elsa, Alondra, Leslie, Karla, Lisa, Jannet, Nicole, Lupe and Scott.  Not shown are Brenna, Brittany, Vanessa, Jocelyn, Chelsea and Emmiline.
 

 Our Reception/Client Care Team

Our receptionists are the first smiling faces you will see when you visit Rialto Animal Hospital. They are first and foremost in the care of you and your pets and assurance of the care you will receive during your visit.  Our team includes Alicia, Suzie, Jennifer, Carmen, Nancy,  and Nicole. 

Alicia joined the Rialto Animal Hospital team in 2005 and she has worked in the veterinary community for over 25 years  and is a valued addition to our receptionist staff.  Whether you speak to her on the phone or in person, her knowledge and confidence will assure you that you have brought your family member to the right place. Feel free to call her anytime to discuss your concerns and needs of your pets.   Alicia is married and has three adult children, and enjoys camping with her family, movie nights and popcorn in their home theater, and romantic dates with her husband.

Suzie has been with us since June 2009 and keeps us all laughing with her magnetic personality and humorous stories (mainly about her family life and motherhood). Suzie is sure to bring a smile to your face and is always willing to help you and your pet receive the care you expect and deserve.  Suzie is married, has a son..."the joy of her life", and has three dogs.

Jennifer  was welcomed into the "RAH" family in March 2011. She brings with her years of experience from an animal emergency clinic where she worked as a receptionist and as an assistant to the doctors. Jennifer's soft voice will surely comfort you, while her medical knowledge will enlighten you. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her boyfriend and her terrier mix, "Jordan Michelle".

Carmen most recently joined us in July 2011. She has a fun and energetic personality and welcomes everyone with a smile. Carmen enjoys spending her free time with her furry family, "Jack-O" and "London", her Huskies and her husband. She is attending school to become an optometrist and has a big heart for all creatures big and small.

Nancy joined our team in 2008 and brings with her many years of client care service.  Her soft-spoken voice and caring personality are an asset to our team.  Nancy's concern for your pets will help make your visit with us most comfortable.  Nancy enjoys spending time spoiling her grandchildren and taking care of her husband, four dogs and a bird.  

Nicole joined our staff in 2007 and is quite versatile in her roles at Rialto Animal Hospital.  Her skills are valued both in the reception area and as an assistant to the technicians and doctors.  Nicole is always pleasant and brings a smiling face with her every day.  Nicole has a husband of nine years, Jose, and hopes to start a family soon.  She loves going to the movies and is an avid player of "Farmville."