Veterinarian and Owner
Hi! I'm Dr. J. Curtis Zella, veterinarian and co-owner of Veterinary Village in Lomira.
I received my Bachelor of Science in 1996 from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. Following this, I earned my Master of Physiology in 2000 and my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in 2005 from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Since joining Veterinary Village in July 2005, I have developed specialized skills in advanced dental procedures, including dental restorations, radiographs, and interventional orthodontics.
During my veterinary training, I was awarded the peer-nominated Dr. J.E. Salisbury Foundation Scholarship Award for academics and the John G. Evans Memorial Award for clinical proficiency. I am also a member of the Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association, the American Veterinary Medical Association, and the American Veterinary Dental Society.
In addition to my clinical work, I’ve contributed to research in the field of auditory systems and perceptual neurophysiology. My research has been published in prominent journals such as Nature: Neuroscience and the Society for Neuroscience. I also had the opportunity to teach biology as a teaching assistant during my time at Purdue and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Favorite Part of my Job
I don’t identify any one specific area of veterinary medicine as my favorite; rather, I find fulfillment in the variety of cases I encounter. Every day is different, and I enjoy the opportunity to continuously learn and refine my skills across a broad range of medical disciplines. That said, I do have a special interest in veterinary dentistry, and helping animals maintain optimal dental health is one of the most rewarding aspects of my practice.
Why I chose this profession
My path to veterinary medicine was a natural progression from my graduate research in neurophysiology. After years of studying complex biological systems, I found a passion for applying this knowledge in a hands-on clinical setting. Veterinary medicine allows me to integrate my love for science, problem-solving, and animal care.
Personal Hobbies & Interests
My wife, Dr. Julia Zella, and I have been married since 1996, and we share our home with Vito, our Siamese cat, and Alfie, our Bernese Mountain Dog. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active with travel, running, hiking, and kayaking. These activities provide me with a balance between professional life and personal wellness, allowing me to recharge while exploring new places.
