My background…

I built my first pond in 1997 and started keeping koi in 1999. A pond contractor recruited me into the business in 2000. After working for several nurseries and pond builders I became a Certified Aquascape Contractor and started my own business. My focus changed from water gardening to koi keeping when my fish got bigger. I currently have over a dozen koi. My personal quarantine, hospital, and brood tanks total 700 gallons. As a member of the Midwest Pond & Koi Society, N.A.W.G.S., and Koivet.com Board I try to give back to the hobby I enjoy so much. Much of what I have learned comes from the school of” hard knocks”, typical mistakes made by most pond owners. My own problems with sick fish made me seek out a koi health education.

My formal training comes from The University of Georgia, in Athens. I attended their Koi Health Management Course in February of ’05 and ’06. My mentor is Dr. Erik L. Johnson, the Koivet. I have also studied under Vicki Vaughan, a microbiologist. Vicki is Director of Aquatic Services UGA College of Veterinary Medicine, and is recognized worldwide as an authority on fish health. Dr. Helen Roberts is a fish vet in the state of New York. I pattern my pond calls after her case studies of attending sick pond fish.

I am not a veterinarian, nor do I practice medicine without a license. What I can do is use my experience to improve the overall health of your pond and fish.

I am able to identify current or potential problems with water quality using various meters and tests.

I can tell you if your filtration is adequate for your fish load and pond size.

My experience with sick fish permits me to quickly ascertain what is wrong with your collection.

After evaluating what the problem is I can suggest a course of action to cure your koi or goldfish.

I can call in a fish veterinarian should prescription meds be needed.