During her studies at U. of I., Dr. Poliakoff, a native of Chicago, decided to pursue her interest in exotics. In 1994 she spent time volunteering at the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago.

She spent time in an externship at Midwest Bird & Exotic Animal Hospital in her 4th year of vet school. While attending U. of I., she dedicated 4 years of service to the University of Illinois Wildlife Medical Clinic.

Once she had completed school, Dianne came to work part time at Midwest Bird & Exotic Animal Hospital. During this time she also worked in a part time position at Family Pet Animal Hospital and full time at Animal 911 Emergency. For the past 7 years she has worked full time as an exotics / small animal emergency vet while continuing to work part time at various small animal practices in the Chicago area.

In October 2005 Dianne and her partner Dr. Betsy Clarkson decided to purchase Midwest Bird and Exotic Animal Hospital from Dr.’s Nye and Brown. They plan to take M.B.E.A.H to the next level, maintaining the history of excellent medical and surgical care for exotics, and eventually becoming a 24 hour service facility.

In her spare time, Dr. Poliakoff enjoys piloting planes, scuba diving and can often be found with Dr. Clarkson sampling some of Chicago’s restaurants and nightlife searching for the best sushi and the perfect chocolate martini.