Meet the Veterinarians & Team of Parkwood Animal Hospital in Friendswood! We’re pleased to provide exceptional vet care for your pets!
Please call us at 281-648-7387 to speak to one of our caring veterinary staff members!
Helen Stehouwer, DVM, a graduate of Texas A&M University, is a devoted and compassionate veterinarian whose primary interest is providing the highest standard of pet health care and happiness. Dr. Stehouwer has practiced veterinary medicine in the community for the past 20 years and is a resident of Friendswood, Texas.
Dr. Eileen Clark is a 1996 graduate from Texas A&M University. She has been practicing veterinary medicine in the Clear Lake and Friendswood area for over 23 years. She joined the Parkwood team in 2010 and loves working here! She currently resides in League City with her husband, Nicholas, daughter, Lily and their dogs Hazel, a Pomeranian mix and Maggie, a Yorkipoo.
Dr. Clark loves all aspects of being a Veterinarian! Her special interests include, but are not limited to, behavioral consultations to help people understand what their pet needs to improve the relationship and everyone’s quality of life. She also really enjoys diagnostic imaging (radiography and ultrasound).
Beyond her busy schedule at work, home and church, she is very passionate in her work as a Child Advocate for Compassion International where she sponsors 7 children from different developing countries. As an advocate, she strives to give children in desperate poverty hope by encouraging people to sponsor them and build relationships with them.
Dr. Shane Vanderford was born and raised in Brandon, MS. He earned his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Mississippi State University and completed a one-year rotating internship in small animal medicine and surgery at the University of Tennessee Veterinary Medical Center.
With over six years of experience as a practicing veterinarian in Texas, Dr. Vanderford is dedicated to providing quality professional care and genuine personal service. He considers it a blessing to be involved in the lives of his clients and their beloved pets. His professional interests include orthopedic and soft tissue surgery, reproduction, anesthesiology, emergency and critical care, and preventative medicine. Dr. Vanderford is an active member of the AVMA, TVMA, HCVMA, and TAVP.
Outside of work, Dr. Vanderford enjoys hunting, fishing, golf, hiking, and carpentry. He is an active member of Clear Creek Community Church in League City and a proud father to two beautiful daughters, Magnolia and Wrenley
Dr. Ashley Polasek is a 2020 graduate from Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine. She practices small animal medicine with a particular passion for internal medicine, dermatology, dentistry, and feline medicine.
Dr. Polasek is certified fear-free and feline friendly. She aims to promote a positive clinic experience that is as stress-free as possible for everyone involved. Her overall goal is to strengthen and preserve the human-animal bond through education, preventative care, and excellent medical management.
Outside of work, Dr. Polasek loves reading and writing fiction, particularly fantasy. She is currently working on a fantasy series that takes up a lot of her free time, but she also enjoys painting and games of all kinds (video games/board games). She is married to a human doctor that specializes in infectious disease, and has a home full of furry and scaly companions–including two dogs, four cats, and one ball python named Monty. Needless to say, things are always interesting at home!
Dr. Adam Mayorga is a dedicated veterinarian with a passion for providing top-notch care to animals. Graduating from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, he brings extensive expertise to the practice. Outside of work, Adam enjoys spending time with his wife Vanessa and their lively fur family of 3 chihuahuas and 2 cats.
In his downtime, you can find Adam engaging in his favorite hobbies. He’s a skilled card player, always up for a strategic challenge that sharpens his skills. Additionally, he finds relaxation and focus in the art of archery, honing his precision and aiming skills.
Dr. Wickel, a Denton native who grew up in LaPorte, Texas, now calls Manvel home. Graduating from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in May 1991, Dr. Wickel has dedicated her life to the care and well-being of animals.
Outside of work, Dr. Wickel enjoys spending time with loved ones and her pets, cooking, reading, and writing lessons for her Bible Study group. She cherishes moments in the pool during summertime and relishes family vacations, especially near the ocean.
Her passion for animals extends beyond her profession; she finds joy in watching puppies and kittens grow and fostering strong relationships with their owners. Dr. Wickel is known for her love of short-nosed dogs, currently having her sixth English Bulldog, Frankie, as a companion. She also has a history of rescuing pets with various health challenges, exemplifying her commitment to providing loving homes to animals in need.
Beyond conventional medicine, Dr. Wickel is certified as a veterinary acupuncturist, offering holistic care since October 2004. Her dedication to animals doesn’t end with her practice; she also aims to adopt elderly or ailing pets, ensuring they experience love and comfort in their twilight years.
While officially retired in 2021, Dr. Wickel’s passion for her work led her to return part-time, continuing her mission of caring for the beloved “babies” in her community. Though she doesn’t have children of her own, she takes pride in being the godmother to her nephew, Conner.
Amy is a Michigan State University alumna, having graduated in 2006 with a Bachelor’s degree in Science and a veterinary technician license. Since then, she has immersed herself in the veterinary field, dedicating her career to the well-being of animals. Beyond work, Amy finds solace and joy in the great outdoors, whether it’s fishing or simply soaking up nature’s beauty. She cherishes moments spent with her husband Chris, whom she married in 2010, and their young son, Bryan. Amy also nurtures her spiritual side by participating in her church small group, where she finds community and support. Her lifelong passion for animals began in her formative years and continues to drive her both personally and professionally.
Jill is a proud local who now calls Friendswood, TX home with her husband, Kenneth—they tied the knot in 2021! A licensed veterinary technician and graduate of the Veterinary Technician Institute, Jill has been working in the veterinary field since 2015 and brings a wealth of experience and heart to everything she does.
At home, Jill and Kenneth are kept on their toes by their two miniature dachshunds, Cinnamon and Tony the Homie (yes, he lives up to the name). When she’s not caring for pets at the clinic, Jill loves catching live concerts and jet-setting whenever the opportunity strikes. Her favorite adventure so far? A dreamy honeymoon in Panama—an experience she’ll never forget!
Tiffany brings warmth, creativity, and a love for all things furry to our team. At home, she’s surrounded by her beloved fur-babies—Willow, the royal Corgi who clearly runs the house; Rocket, the ever-watchful “guard dog” cat (yes, you read that right); and Gidget, the fluffy little cuddle bug who’s never far from her side.
When Tiffany’s not at the clinic, you’ll find her soaking up family time—whether it’s casting a line on a fishing trip, leveling up in a game, or getting her hands dirty in the garden. She also channels her creative energy into watercolor painting, baking up sweet treats, and doting on her ever-growing jungle of houseplants.
With a big heart and a fun-loving spirit, Tiffany makes life brighter for both pets and people alike!
Destinie has been a part of the veterinary world since 2007. She began her journey as a veterinary technician, worked her way up to lead tech, and later made the leap to the front desk—joining the Parkwood team as a Client Service Representative in April 2019. Her love for animals started early, and it’s been the heartbeat of her career ever since.
When she’s not greeting clients at Parkwood with a smile, Destinie is cheering from the stands with her husband, Jake, proudly supporting their two kids, Hayden and Kennedy. Outside of sports seasons, she enjoys baking (especially trying out new recipes), exploring nature trails, and soaking up the sunshine at the beach.
Destinie’s home wouldn’t be complete without her trio of feline companions—Tabby, Nova, and Spook—who rule the roost and round out her loving family.
Barbara brings heart and smarts to the Parkwood team, holding a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of South Alabama. She grew up on a farm in the countryside, where her lifelong love for animals took root—and that connection has never left her.
Today, Barbara finds joy and purpose in her role at Parkwood Animal Hospital, where she’s surrounded by a like-minded team that shares her compassion for animals. Her days are filled with meaningful work and strong bonds—both with pets and her fellow teammates.
When she’s off the clock, Barbara enjoys spending time with her husband, Scott, and their spirited Irish Setter, Flynn, who keeps life exciting with his endless energy. Whether it’s a quiet evening at home or an outdoor adventure, Barbara finds her happy place in the simple, joyful moments with her little family.
Jessica recently graduated from the College of the Mainland with an associate’s degree in fine arts, a field that has always been close to her heart. With passions deeply rooted in both art and animals, venturing into veterinary care was a natural and thrilling progression for her.
Jessica’s compassion for every furry friend she encounters is palpable, and she never tires of showering them with affectionate attention. When she’s not doting on cuddly companions or enjoying quality time with her loved ones, Jessica indulges her creative side through drawing and crafting, exploring various mediums with boundless enthusiasm.
At home, Jessica shares her space with a regal feline ruler named Nala, a ball-obsessed canine companion named Kona, and a charmingly clumsy snake named Dottie. With her love for animals and passion for art, Jessica brings a unique blend of creativity and caring to her role in veterinary care.
Shalyn joined our team in 2016 and has flourished ever since, bringing positivity, compassion, and vibrant energy into everything she does. After years of working as a Veterinary Technician, Shalyn has transitioned into a Client Service Representative role—so now you’ll find her smiling face right up front, ready to welcome you and your pets with warmth and care.
At home, Shalyn shares her life with her husband, John, and their two beloved Weimaraners, Milly and Mayhem, who keep things lively. Together, they enjoy trying new recipes, catching live concerts, and dreaming about their next big adventure—with Japan, Italy, and Mo’orea at the top of their travel list.
Heather was born and raised in a small town in Minnesota before moving to Texas in 2015 to pursue studies in marine biology, which ultimately did not materialize. With a childhood spent on a farm, her passion for working with animals and pursuing a career in veterinary medicine never waned.
After obtaining her degree as a Veterinary Assistant, Heather fulfilled her long-held aspirations when she joined Parkwood in 2023. Despite the journey being lengthy, she firmly believes in the power of perseverance. Her current goals revolve around continuous learning and growth in her role, and she remains grateful for the support and patience extended to her by her colleagues.
Coming from the “state of hockey,” Heather’s favorite sport to watch is hockey, with the Minnesota Wild holding a special place in her heart. While she misses attending games in person, she finds solace in catching them on TV.
In her leisure time, Heather indulges in her lifelong hobby of drawing, finding it to be an excellent stress reliever. She also has a deep love for reading and can often be found immersed in a book. Additionally, she cherishes the opportunity to travel, whether it’s hitting the road or flying to new destinations.
Lily is a compassionate veterinary assistant with a big heart for animals and a drive to make a difference in their lives. Whether she’s assisting in the clinic or offering a comforting hand to a nervous pet, her love for veterinary care shines through in everything she does.
Outside of work, Lily lives life with curiosity and creativity. She’s an avid reader, a roller skating enthusiast, and a lover of all things vintage—always on the lookout for unique finds while antiquing. Music plays a big role in her life, and she’s currently learning to play the guitar, adding another creative layer to her world.
Lily’s journey doesn’t stop at veterinary medicine—she’s also passionate about forensic science and plans to further her education in college, all while continuing to make an impact in animal care. With her determined spirit and diverse interests, Lily brings both heart and ambition to the Parkwood team.
Ari, originally from Venezuela, relocated to Florida at the age of nine before eventually settling in Texas. When she’s not at work, she finds solace in her passion for drawing, indulges in movies, and embraces the joy of dancing. At home, Ari’s companion is Leia, her beloved Yorkie. Looking ahead, Ari’s aspirations include completing high school and working towards obtaining a veterinary technician license, driven by her profound love for animals.
Emily is a Certified Veterinary Assistant with over three years of hands-on experience in the veterinary field. She’s passionate about providing exceptional care and plays a vital role in supporting both patients and their owners throughout the clinic’s daily operations.
Fluent in Spanish, Emily helps ensure every client feels heard, informed, and confident in the care their pets receive. Her long-term goal is to become a licensed veterinary technician, and she’s continuously working to expand her knowledge and skills to provide the highest standard of care.
Outside of the clinic, Emily is a dedicated sports fan who loves cheering on the Astros, Dodgers, and Los Rayados. She also enjoys watching anime, reading on her Kindle, and spending quiet time at home with her two French Bulldogs, Coffee and Lola.
Destiny, lovingly known as Dusty, is a devoted wife and mother of two who brings energy and passion to everything she does. Her interest in the veterinary field began at the age of 7 when a medical situation with a litter of puppies sparked her curiosity and love for animal care.
Outside of work, Destiny enjoys hiking, fishing, and cozy Netflix nights with her family. A talented artist, she loves sculpting with wood and clay, often exploring new creative outlets. Her greatest goal is to share new experiences with her kids, inspiring them to embrace all the exciting adventures life has to offer.
At home, Destiny’s animal family includes Odin, a shepherd mix, Little Iggy, a chihuahua mix, two ball pythons, and a lively tank of fish. With her nurturing spirit and creative energy, Destiny brings joy to both her family and the animals she cares for.
Joce, a native of North Houston, moved to League City after getting married. She’s an avid powerlifter and bodybuilder, clinching first place in her latest competition. She also loves hitting up cumbia nights from time to time. Recently, she welcomed Zero, a German Shepherd puppy, into her home. He’s the sweetest, cutest, and the bestest boy. Alongside Zero, she cares for Spark, a 15-year-old leopard gecko. Looking ahead, Joce aims to expand her veterinary expertise to include a broader range of species, all while continuing her mission of enhancing the well-being of both people and their pets.
Eryn resides in Friendswood with her partner Josh and their beloved companions: Oakley, a 3-year-old Lab mix, two cats named Cheetah, and Naomi, and their crested gecko, Treecko. Graduating from the Vet Tech Institute of Houston in 2022, Eryn is eager to deepen her knowledge of Animal Science.
With a lifelong passion for animals, Eryn has garnered personal experience caring for a diverse array of species, from dogs and fish to reptiles and insects. Outside of her professional pursuits, she finds solace in art and photography, enjoys music, and relishes the serenity of camping.
The most rewarding aspect of her job, Eryn believes, is forming connections with pets and witnessing their growth and well-being over time
Stacy, originally from Florence, NJ, spent the majority of her life there before graduating from Virginia Tech with a B.S. in Animal Sciences. Following a spontaneous decision, she relocated to Texas to live with her best friend after college, where she serendipitously met her husband, Scott. Together, they share their home with three beloved cats: Olivia, Cleo, and Calypso.
With experience in the veterinary field, Stacy has developed a reputation for her adeptness in handling “spicy cats.” Her passion for her work stems from the joy of seeing pets recover and reunite with their families, especially after feeling unwell. She takes pride in her role in preventative care, emphasizing the importance of routine screenings in maintaining pet health.
Stacy’s dedication to continuous learning and personal growth reflects her commitment to better serving her team and patients. She aspires to further her knowledge and skills to provide even better care in the future.
Corine proudly graduated with honors, earning her Associate’s degree in Animal Science from The Vet Tech Institute of Houston in April 2010. A Houston native, Corine was raised in Alvin, Texas, where she currently resides with her loving husband, Ryan, of 10 years. Together, they cherish their two incredible children: Marley and Forrest.
With a deep-rooted love and reverence for all living beings, Corine’s heart beats for animals and the great outdoors. She’s known for her outgoing nature, boisterous personality, and unwavering dedication. Whether she’s spending quality time with family, relishing delicious food, or enjoying the company of friends and furry companions, Corine embraces life with zest and zeal.
Outside of her professional role, Corine is a devoted full-time mom, skilled cook, enthusiastic dancer, tuneful singer, and witty comedian😉. While she mourns the loss of her beloved OG dogs, Kira and Madi, she’s found solace and joy in the company of Chancho, a rescued chiweenie, and Pita, an energetic staffordshire terrier mix.
Corine’s journey with Parkwood began in 2012, and though she took a hiatus during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, she’s thrilled to be back, continuing her passion for animal care and making a positive impact in the lives of pets and their families
Gina found her calling in the animal care industry, starting at an exotic bird sanctuary and boarding facility before swiftly rising to a management position. Determined to advocate for all creatures, she pursued her education at the Vet Institute of Houston, earning her Associates of Applied Science Degree.
Since joining Parkwood in January 2013, Gina has poured her heart into her work, driven by her love for caring for animals. She adores her trio of canine companions—Goldie, Roberto, and Mia—and cherishes the joy her daughter finds with their furry family members.
Meet Paige, a local gem hailing from Deer Park. With a childhood rooted in our community, Paige brings a warm, familiar touch to our team. When she’s not immersed in the world of animal care, you’ll find her indulging in her favorite pastimes: binge-watching Netflix, catching the latest blockbusters, and dancing up a storm with her cherished family and friends.
Paige’s dedication to her role goes beyond mere duty; it’s a calling that ignites her every morning. She understands the significance of her job and approaches it with unwavering commitment. Her passion for her furry patients is palpable, and she takes great pride in being their advocate and guardian.
At home, Paige is surrounded by the love of her adorable pups: Jewel, Gypsy, and Sophie. They are not just pets but cherished members of her family, further fueling her devotion to animal welfare.
Looking ahead, Paige has her sights set on becoming the go-to veterinary technician that everyone trusts and relies on. With her compassion, dedication, and drive, there’s no doubt she’ll achieve her goal and continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of animals and their owners alike.
Celeste was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. She currently resides in Houston, Texas, embracing new opportunities that come her way with her two fur babies named Pepe and Snowflake. From a young age, Celeste has shown interest in animals and knew she wanted to work in the veterinary field to help all kinds of animals and be their advocate. She began her journey into the veterinary field in 2018, starting at a small private practice that encompassed hospital, boarding, and grooming facilities. Despite having no prior experience, Celeste entered with only her passion and love for animals, along with the determination to overcome any challenges or obstacles she faced. She started as a kennel technician and worked her way up to a supervisor position, eventually achieving the role of veterinary technician while pursuing and earning her associate’s degree in science. This marked the beginning of her career.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Celeste finds fulfillment in a diverse array of hobbies, including yoga, meditation, cooking, baking, drawing, painting, DIY projects, and exploring new destinations through travel. What drives Celeste every morning is her relentless pursuit of personal growth and her aspiration to make a meaningful impact in her community, fueled by the determination to surpass her own expectations and achieve her goals.
Looking ahead, Celeste envisions furthering her education to advocate not only for animals but also for individuals struggling with mental health challenges. She aspires to learn new languages, traverse the globe, and give back to communities through volunteer work, thereby leaving a lasting, positive impact on the world.
Karissa was born in Spring, TX, and moved to this area after graduating from high school in 2017. During the Covid pandemic, she decided to follow her dream of working in veterinary medicine and began her college journey at VTI, graduating in 2022.
Karissa has two dogs, Roscoe and Boe, and one cat, Azriel. Outside of work, she considers herself more of a dog person. However, at work, she is more than happy to take on all of the kitty rooms, including the spicy ones! Karissa’s heart is filled with love for every animal she encounters. With a background in exotics and some large animal experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role.
Karissa is fueled by caffeine, with her morning cup of coffee serving as her personal pep talk to start the day. It’s her secret ingredient to tackling the day with energy and enthusiasm.
Her goal is to eventually earn a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology. She actively tries to learn from every patient, constantly striving to become an even better technician for the next.
Outside of work, Karissa loves to read. She is currently immersed in the entire Harry Potter series after receiving the original hardbacks for her birthday.
Since 2016, Vicki has been fully immersed in the world of veterinary medicine, a journey that fuels her passion each day. At home, she shares her space with a furry family consisting of three charismatic cats—Mirana, Raven, and Bandit—and a loyal companion, Nova the dog.
In her downtime, Vicki finds herself cherishing moments with her growing family, especially her new baby boy.
Yet, it’s her work in veterinary medicine that truly speaks to Vicki’s heart. The opportunity to provide care and comfort to sick animals fills her with a sense of purpose, knowing that she’s making a meaningful difference in their lives.
Ashley is a dynamic individual with a unique background shaped by her experiences growing up all over the place. Her passions include swimming, biking, and diving into the world of first-person video games and sci-fi novels. At home, she’s the proud dog mom to three lovable dachshunds—Zelda, Link, and Archer—who keep life entertaining.
Family and friends are her driving force, fueling her passion for meaningful connections and personal growth. Ashley is committed to evolving both personally and professionally, with an eye on building a bright future. With her adventurous spirit and dedication to those she loves, Ashley brings energy and heart to everything she does.
Skylar grew up in Texas City, Texas, and holds a bachelor’s degree in biology. She has been married for four years and is a proud mom to her son, who inspires her every day. With over 11 years of experience in the animal care field, Skylar has always felt called to help animals live well and thrive.
At Parkwood, Skylar is passionate about growing as a technician and continuing to learn new skills. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, and making memories with her pets. Her furry family includes three dogs—Denver, Delta, and Doodle—and three cats: Vision, Scarlett, and Squeaks (a tripod!).
Skylar’s personal and professional goals revolve around excelling both in her career and in her home life. She values animals, family, and personal growth, and she brings that passion into every aspect of her work.
Originally from Texas, Kyle began his journey in the culinary world, attending culinary school in New York before discovering his true calling in veterinary medicine. With over three years of experience in general practice, he’s developed a strong skill set—particularly excelling in venipuncture and dental radiographs, consistently completing full-mouth rads in 15–20 minutes.
Outside the clinic, Kyle is an avid gamer and passionate roleplayer, bringing creativity, focus, and a sense of adventure into everything he does. What motivates him most each day? Supporting his team, continuing to grow, and making veterinary visits a little less scary and a lot more comforting for the pets in his care.
Kyle’s core values—Excellence, Dedication, and Compassion—guide him as he works toward his long-term goal of earning his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine.
And if you’re ever in the mood for a good story, ask Kyle about the time he placed fourth in his first surfing competition—only to miss the semi-finals because he was busy building a beach fort with new friends. His coach wasn’t too pleased, but for Kyle, it was a memory worth making.
Miranda grew up all around Houston and planted her roots in Friendswood about eight years ago. She joined the Parkwood Animal Hospital family and quickly found herself surrounded by a team full of bright, dedicated faces who make each day special.
While some might say their pets wake them up in the morning, Miranda jokes that it’s really her 30 alarms that do the job. That being said, not long ago, she might’ve given the credit to Olive, her beloved bearded dragon. Miranda lost Olive and is still navigating the grief. She often visits Olive’s gravesite to talk about her day, leave flowers, and find peace in those quiet moments.
Outside of work, Miranda enjoys taking long drives with the music up and the windows down, chasing sunsets. She dreams of moving to Oregon with her boyfriend to start a peaceful life homesteading—raising livestock, tending a garden, and living quietly in the forest. Olive was even meant to have her own room and a patio with a protective net to keep her safe from predators. Though those plans have changed, Miranda’s vision remains strong. It’s not just a dream—it’s a goal she holds close to her heart. It’s where she wants to be. It’s where she needs to be. And for her, that life represents true happiness—something she’s been seeking for a long time.
Miranda shares her home with two family dogs, Buster and Bruno. Bruno, a chocolate lab, came from a backyard breeder and arrived weak, depressed, and with scabs and patchy fur. Buster was rescued from the pound, full of energy but severely underweight. Thanks to the love and care of Miranda and her family, both boys are now thriving and surrounded by affection from eight people who adore them.
