Local Veterinarian Gives Pets and Owners Peace of Mind

If dogs are a man’s best friend, then Dr. Cynthia Cecott is quite possibly man's best friend's best friend. Her personal care is apparent in the host of thank-you cards posted on a board at the entrance of Cecott’s Veterinary Clinic of Tinley Park, 17745 Oak Park Avenue. 

“I enjoy taking care of creatures that need help,” Cecott said.

Crete resident Margie Leahy started going to Cecott after her family bought her two dogs to keep her company. Leahy, who lives alone, had to adjust to life with her golden retriever Fred and her mini-pit Rocki, but the adjustment intensified when both animals became sick. 

“To go from no pets to two pets is a lot,” Leahy said. “Then add them being sick on top of that. It’s overwhelming.”

Fred had bad ears and a thyroid problem, and Rocki needed brain surgery. “I had no idea what to do” Leahy said.  “Dr. Cecott took the time to explain things to me as many times as I needed. She even made doctor’s appointments for me. No one does that.”

It’s that bedside manner Cecott says separates her from others. “I always try and put myself in the client’s shoes,” she said. “I ask myself what would I do if I it were my pet. And I’m honest when they ask me.”

Cecott did an internship in New Haven, Conn. after graduating from Iowa State’s veterinary program in 1995. She worked as an associate in several suburbs before settling in Tinley Park. 

The clinic is a dream come true for Cecott.  “After working as an associate for several years, I thought it was my time to own my own,” she said.  “I said to myself that I can be a mother and a doctor at the same time.” 

She couldn’t think of a better place to start anew but Tinley Park.  “I live in Tinley Park and I absolutely love it,” she said. “The people are so receptive. We have a sense of community.” 

It’s not uncommon for clients to see her two children inside the clinic. “They are here a lot playing with the animals,” Cecott said.  “It’s so rewarding. I love being a mother and a doctor.”  

On most days, Cecott performs four morning surgeries and sees about 25 patients. It’s that medical aspect that reminds her of her childhood aspirations. As a child, she would play doctor on stuffed animals and care for family pets.

“I’ve loved animals all of my life,” she said.