Dr. Rybak joined the VNIOC team in August 2021 as part of the imaging anesthesia team at the Towson location, and brings a unique background to the practice. Dr. Rybak received her DVM degree from Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2008. After a one-year general practice equine internship, she spent 6 years in an organ transplantation research laboratory at the University of Maryland-Baltimore running anesthesia for various projects. As a faculty research associate Dr. Rybak developed and consulted on anesthetic protocols for complex surgical and medical laboratory procedures for transplant and trauma research, and had the opportunity to teach medical students and surgery residents anesthesia techniques and protocols. After her time in academia, she moved on to work as a general practitioner in a small animal clinic where she also oversees and guides associates on anesthesia for routine procedures. In 2018, Dr. Rybak completed the CuraCore acupuncture program and is certified in veterinary medical acupuncture (cVMA). Dr. Rybak has a stong interest in anesthesia and pain management, and is impressed with the high level of patient care at VNIOC.
Dr. Rybak is a Michigan native but has lived in Baltimore since 2010. She spends her free time with her husband Justin, bark-tastic dog Teddy, and two cats Jackson and Cairo. Dr. Rybak also regularly volunteers with The Cats at Longstreet–a small regional cat rescue–helping with procedures and surgeries for animals in need. Dr. Rybak enjoys hiking, eating at local restaurants, is an avid horsewoman and casually competes in competitive distance trail riding.