Our Staff:
Emery Cyfra D.V.M.
Dr. Emery Cyfra has been with Animal Clinic West since it was established in 1981. He was born in France but moved to Canada when he was a child. His family owns a farm in Symons Valley, Alberta where he grew up and learned of his love for animals. Emery attended the University of Calgary where he received his Bachelor of Science degree. He went on to the University of Saskatchewan where he completed his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree. Veterinary management is one of his major interests and he has received his Certification in Veterinary Practice Management. Dr. Cyfra is a member of the AVMA, CVMA, AAHA, and CAVM. He is also actively involved in working with the Calgary humane society, municipalities and CVMA to promote responsible pet ownership.
Emery and his wife Maureen stay very busy raising their 4 children, Rebecca, Richard, Carolyn, and Elizabeth. Volleyball takes up a lot of Dr. Cyfra's time as he works with the University of Calgary to organize and manage varsity sports.
Heather Haakstad D.V.M.
Dr. Haakstad grew up in Grande Prairie, AB and is the oldest of five children. She graduated from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon, SK, class of 2001. She is particularly interested in feline and canine dentistry, and pain management.
When she is not at work she enjoys walking, knitting, and spending time with her husband and "crabby old cat".
Crista Bonnyman AHT
Crista is originally from Truro, Nova Scotia but moved to Calgary because she needed a change of pace. She obtained her AHT diploma from Nova Scotia Agricultural College in 1993 and has been at Animal Clinic West since September 1997.
Shannon Armstrong
Shannon grew up in various cities across Alberta and British Columbia, establishing permanent residency in Calgary in 1991.
Having worked closely with a Calgary based Chartered Accounting firm since May 1991, Shannon has a strong background in accounting. She has been at Animal Clinic West on a part-time basis since October 1997.
Shannon has two cats; Benny and Monkey.
