Emily Gordon, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Emily Gordon grew up in Park Slope, Brooklyn. She graduated from Worcester Polytechnic Institute with a degree in Biology & Biotechnology in 2021, and then enrolled at the Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine in Glendale, AZ. Her clinical interests include canine and feline respiratory diseases, endoscopy, and trauma cases. She hopes to pursue a residency in Small Animal Internal Medicine in the near future.

Outside of work, Emily can be found playing ice hockey at a local rink, exploring local markets, or spending time with her Chihuahua mix, Henderson.

Laura Judd, BVetMed

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Laura Judd grew up in Connecticut and completed a degree in chemistry from Washington University in St. Louis. She then graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in England. Her clinical interests include internal medicine and pharmacology.

Outside of work, Laura enjoys cooking, knitting, reading, and attending markets. Laura has a passion for small, feisty chihuahuas and old dogs that look like bears.

Yiyao (Krista) Li, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Bio Coming Soon

Em Slezak, Counselor

Em Slezak joined the Client Support Services team as a counseling intern. They are pursuing a Master’s in Divinity at Union Theological Seminary, as VERG serves as their site for Clinical Pastoral Education and Field Education. Em will assist the Client Support Services team with their work to focus on grief and bereavement, compassion fatigue, and the connection between humans and animals. Em is passionate about seeking out the margins of spiritual care, in places and with beings most often overlooked. Before seminary, they worked in a Brooklyn middle school as a director of a self-contained program for students with significant or complex disabilities. Em is supervised by Christine Galotti, LCSW, a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Rabbi Joanna Katz, Board-Certified Chaplain and an ACPE Educator.

Interests: Slezak enjoys spending time with their family: Maren, Levi (chorkie), and Ginseng (hound dog). Find them in Brower Park, watching a Liberty Game, or commuting on the 3 train to campus.

Amelia McMahon, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Bio Coming Soon

Curtis Rheingold, DVM, MS

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Rheingold graduated from Bates College in Lewiston, Maine with a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience. He then worked in neuropharmacology research for three years prior to completing his veterinary and master’s degrees at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. After a small animal rotating internship at BluePearl Pet Hospital (Langhorne, PA), Curtis completed a residency in Emergency & Critical Care Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. He moved to Brooklyn in 2025 to begin working at VERG.

Dr. Rheingold’s clinical interests include sepsis, severe respiratory disease, and mechanical ventilation. He finds fulfillment in supporting the families of critically ill dogs and cats.

In his free time, Curtis enjoys staying active, playing the drums, and competitive chess. He and his two special needs cats are excited to move to New York City and call it home.

Katherine Wagner, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Bio Coming Soon

Karen Li, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Karen Li is a native of Manhattan’s Chinatown and is proud to serve the New York City community she calls home. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Cornell University and went on to receive her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. With a deep commitment to compassionate, high-quality veterinary care, Dr. Li is honored to contribute to the health and well-being of pets across the city.

Outside of the clinic, Karen enjoys weightlifting, discovering new restaurants, and spending time with her beloved cat, Chopper, and her family dog, Kiwi. She also has a passion for travel and loves immersing herself in different cultures and cuisines whenever she can.

Elsa Nader, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Elsa Nader grew up in Seattle, WA and completed a Chemistry and Environmental Studies degree at Whitman College. She graduated from Veterinary School at Tufts University in 2025. Elsa has a passion for animal welfare, community medicine, and emergency medicine. Elsa is looking forward to serving her community in Brooklyn and discovering the area more.

On her off time, Elsa has a passion for the outdoors, food and saying hi to every dog on the street. She enjoys hiking, climbing, running, cycling, and trying new local coffee shops and restaurants.

Jordan Sachs, BVetMed

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Jordan Sachs grew up in Sun Valley, Idaho and completed an Animal Science degree at the University of Wisconsin- Madison. She completed her veterinary degree at the Royal Veterinary College in London, England. Her interest in veterinary medicine includes all aspects of emergency medicine, surgery, and anesthesia.

Outside of work, Jordan enjoys traveling, hiking, and finding the best coffee in Brooklyn.

Stephanie Ho, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care
Dr. Ho is originally from Northern California. She moved to New York City to attend New York University for her undergraduate degree in biology and participated as a member of the NYU women’s soccer team. For veterinary school she attended St. George’s university and University of Georgia for her final clinical year.

She is interested in emergency, surgery, and shelter medicine. In her free time she enjoys playing soccer, running, hanging out with friends, and most importantly hanging out with her 2 senior cats.

Michael Michalik, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care
Dr. Michael Michalik grew up in New Jersey and has over a decade of experience in the veterinary industry. He attended Florida State University for his undergraduate training in biology and research in psychology before enrolling in the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.

His clinical interests include feline lower urinary tract disease, ultrasonography, and emergency medicine. Outside of work, Dr. Michalik is passionate about aquaculture, aviation, and designing functional medical attire. He also enjoys traveling and immersing himself in other cultures over a common ground of food and can most ideally be found in the morning with an espresso and his cat Gizmo.

Jennifer Mercado, DVM, DACVECC

Emergency & Critical Care
Dr. Mercado was born and raised in Jersey City, NJ and received her bachelor’s in biology at Rutgers’s University. She then completed her veterinary degree at Midwestern University. Following graduation, Jennifer completed a small animal and surgery rotating internship at Oradell Animal Hospital and stayed on to complete a 3-year residency in Emergency and Critical Care. Her interests in emergency and critical care lie in trauma, sepsis and toxicities.

Jennifer has two perfect spoiled kitties: Pusheen and Mochi. She loves to spend time with her family, friends and of course the cats, going out to new restaurants and going to the movies. She also enjoys working out, hiking and taking different workout classes like hot yoga.

Alexa Brown, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Alexa Brown grew up in Long Island and completed her bachelor’s degree at Binghamton University. After working at a 24-hour emergency veterinary center for a year, she completed veterinary school at Tufts University just outside of Boston. Her clinical interests include emergency medicine and ultrasonography.

In her free time, Alexa enjoys hanging out with her two dogs, Rocky and Jaxson, and seeking out the best gluten free desserts in the area.

Kristi Cerami, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Kristi Cerami grew up on Long Island and has over a decade of experience in the veterinary industry, including roles as a veterinary assistant and hospital manager. She attended Stony Brook University for undergraduate studies before attending St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine in Grenada, West Indies, and completing clinical training at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine. Her clinical interests include soft tissue surgery and emergency medicine.

Outside of the hospital, Kristi is passionate about reading and finding the best local coffee shops. On days off, she can usually be found on a walk with an iced coffee and her two dogs, Dory and Mocha.

Brittany Haboucha, BVetMed

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Brittany Haboucha grew up in Montreal, Canada, where she completed a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in health geography at McGill University. She then went overseas to pursue a degree in veterinary medicine from the Royal Veterinary College London. She is passionate about antimicrobial stewardship in the veterinary setting and has a growing interest in internal medicine and critical care.

Outside of work, Brittany enjoys travelling, photography, rowing and running. In her spare time, she can be found trying new restaurants around New York and exploring what the city has to offer.

Jessica DiStefano, VMD

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Jessica Forbes DiStefano grew up in western Massachusetts and completed an Animal Science and Pathobiology BS at the University of Connecticut. She completed an MS at Tufts University in Infectious Disease and Global Health in 2020. In 2025, she graduated from veterinary school with a VMD from the University of Pennsylvania.

During her time off, Jessica enjoys watching TV with her cats – Tuna and Marlin, playing cards with her friends and family, and camping.

Cecily Freliech, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Cecily Freliech grew up in Connecticut and received her Bachelor of Science degree at Tufts University. After two years of studying Lyme disease in Boston, she pursued her veterinary degree at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. Cecily has an interest in emergency and community medicine in addition to marine animal health.

In her free time, she enjoys traveling, trying different restaurants, and cooking. She is very excited to continue to explore New York City.

Maria Gabriela Cadena, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Maria Gabriela Cadena grew up in Quito, Ecuador, where she earned her degree as a veterinary doctor. She moved to the United States in 2017 and has worked in the veterinary field for over eight years. Throughout this time, she also pursued the process of obtaining her U.S. veterinary license, which she completed in 2025 after finishing her clinical rotations at the University of Pennsylvania. Her professional interests include emergency and critical care medicine, as well as nephrology.

Outside of veterinary medicine, Gabriela enjoys salsa dancing, traveling, eco- tourism, and scuba diving.

Laura Mescallado

Inventory Coordinator

Bio coming soon!

Brett Levitzke, DVM, Chief Medical Officer

Emergency & Critical Care

Brett received his Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from Cornell University in 1994 and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in 2000. Upon graduation, he completed a rotating one-year internship in Emergency, Surgery, and Internal Medicine at Garden State Veterinary Specialists in Tinton Falls, NJ. He then parlayed his keen interest in emergency medicine into a position as medical director of the Brooklyn Veterinary Emergency Services. Sensing the need for a 24-hour emergency and specialty hospital, Brett founded the Veterinary Emergency and Referral Group in the spring of 2005, where he has since been working as the Medical Director and emergency/critical care clinician. His special interests are cases of trauma—including vehicular and high rise.

When he is not working, you can find Brett cheering on his beloved Georgia Bulldogs in football, playing Texas Hold ‘Em, and having fun with his wife Nicole, son Jack and their dogs JJ and Rosie.

Jillian DiFazio, DVM DACVECC, Chief of Staff

Emergency & Critical Care

Jillian graduated from Boston College with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She went on to complete her veterinary degree at Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. She completed her small animal rotating internship at Cornell University and stayed on to complete her residency in Emergency and Critical Care. She spent the first year and a half post-residency at Cornell university Vet Specialists. Jillian joined VERG in 2016 and developed the Critical Care Service at VERG- something in which she takes great pride in.

Jillian’s clinical interests include sepsis, neurotrauma, endocrine derangements, fluid therapy, and mechanical ventilation.

Jillian’s personal interests include fitness classes (running, cycling, weight lifting, boot camps, you name it!), music, and travel. She also spends her days off with her dogs, Ellie (Chihuahua) and Muppet (some blend of Shih Tzu and perfection).

Isaiah Redhead

Special Procedures Coordinator

Isaiah first joined VERG in 2021 as an assistant because of his passion for animal care and well-being. He is now a special procedures coordinator who oversees the management and quality controls of all equipment/machines used by our team. When he is not working, he enjoys reading, going to the park, spending time with his family, and spending time with his cat named Kumo.

Rebecca Berman, MRCVS BVetMed

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Becca Berman earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from The University of Michigan, where she graduated in 2018 with peer-reviewed publications in cardiovascular research. Dr. Berman then graduated from The Royal Veterinary College in London, UK in 2023. She grew up in southeast Michigan, and knew she wanted to be a veterinarian since the age of six when she had the opportunity to watch her first cat neuter.  

Her clinical interests include Emergency and Critical Care medicine and gastrointestinal surgery.  

Dr. Berman has two adopted cats from England called Pimento and Gwen who love hunting and sunbathing. In her free time, she enjoys exploring Brooklyn thrift shops, watching Formula 1, and going to live music shows.

Kendal Valentine, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Kendal Valentine received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Tampa Honors Program in 2019, graduating magna cum laude. She earned her doctorate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine in 2023. Throughout veterinary school, she discovered a deep-rooted love in caring for elderly patients, and for the field of oncology. Dr. Valentine was involved in cancer research during veterinary school, and is a published author for the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Beyond her veterinary career, Dr. Valentine’s adventurous spirit leads her to find joy in traveling, exploring new cultures, and capturing the beauty of different landscapes through photography. She also enjoys a good cup of coffee and hanging out with her calico cat named Cleopatra.

Sean Donlon, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Sean Donlon earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science at Purdue University. He then stayed at Purdue to earn his DVM degree at Purdue University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Donlon has developed a predominant interest in emergency medicine, which prompted a desire to practice here at VERG.  

Dr. Donlon is originally from Long Island New York and is very happy to be back in his home state. In his free time, Dr. Donlon is an avid musician, playing guitar and singing as well as having some piano experience. He also frequently visits the New York beaches, mostly near his hometown of Long Island. 

Amanda Ortiz, Hospital Supervisor

Amanda is a Bronx native who has been in the veterinary field for 7 years with 4 of those years being at VERG Brooklyn. Her clinical interests lie in emergency/critical care cases and special procedures such as laceration repairs and endoscopies. She is an integral part of our team and has an exemplary work ethic.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and trying new food. Amanda is the proud mother of her dogs Rocky and Cash and her pet snake Arya.

Emma Arrieta, MRCVS BVetMed

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Emma Arrieta is originally from sunny South Florida. She attended the University of Florida for undergrad (GO GATORS!), where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She then ventured across the pond to spend the next four years living in London, England where she attended the Royal Veterinary College for her veterinary degree.

Her clinical interests include ophthalmology, emergency medicine, and dermatology.  

In her free time, she enjoys baking, scuba diving, and reading a good book accompanied by a bag of popcorn.   

Sarah Powers, VMD

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Sarah Powers received her Bachelor of Arts from Columbia University in 2012. She worked in Human Resources for several years after college but ultimately, found her true calling in veterinary medicine and has since graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Powers clinical interests include general practice and emergency medicine and hopes to one day work on the North Shore of Long Island where she grew up.

In her free time, she enjoys cooking, live music, and exploring Brooklyn with her husband and their dog, Otto. 

Kathryn Bradley, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Katie Bradley completed her undergraduate studies at College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor, Maine, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Human Ecology. She subsequently obtained her degree in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Edinburgh, graduating with distinction.

Dr. Bradley has always been interested in specialty medicine, with particular emphasis in congenital and acquired cardiovascular disease and endocrine emergencies. Having grown up on Long Island, she is thrilled to now call Brooklyn home.

In her free time, she likes thrifting, eating at restaurants with friends, and listening to opera.

Kate Crecraft, DVM, DACVECC

Emergency & Critical Care

Kate graduated from New York University with a Bachelor of Arts in Social and Cultural Analysis. She went on to complete her veterinary degree at Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. After a rotating small animal internship at VERG, she practiced here as an emergency doctor until deciding to pursue further training. Kate completed her emergency and critical care residency at the Animal Medical Center, pursuing research in trauma, refeeding syndrome, and toxicities. She is excited to be back at VERG. Kate’s clinical interests include electrolyte derangements, endocrine emergencies, and feline medicine. Outside of work, Kate enjoys hiking, traveling, and exploring New York. She shares her home with her human, a good brown dog, and a handful of cats.

Alexander Schreiber, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Schreiber grew up in Long Island, New York, before moving to sunny California to attend vet school at Western University of Health Sciences. After getting his degree, he completed a rotating internship at VCA West Los Angeles, one of the largest and busiest 24–hour specialty and referral hospitals on the west coast. He then decided to move back east to spend time with friends and family. His favorite cases involve anything immune-mediated and endocrine-related. In his spare time, he enjoys anything nature-related, seeing concerts, exploring New York City, or spending time with his parents and two golden retrievers, Summer and Sally.

Courtney Gallay, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Gallay is from New City, New York, and received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Binghamton University. She then attended Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine on the beautiful island of St. Kitts. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, hiking with her rescue dog Ellie, and traveling.

Kathryn James, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Kate James grew up in Rhode Island and graduated from the University of Rhode Island with dual Bachelor’s Science degrees in Wildlife Conservation and Biological Science as well as a minor in Italian. She received her veterinary degree from Atlantic Veterinary College at the University of Prince Edward Island in beautiful Atlantic Canada. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, exploring the city, trying new restaurants, spending lazy days doing jigsaw puzzles, and hanging with her 12–year–old French Bulldog, Gabby.”

Anna Eickhoff, BVetMed, MRCVS

Emergency & Critical Care

Anna graduated from Roosevelt University in Chicago, with a Bachelor of Science with Honors in Biology. After two years working as an ER and ICU veterinary technician in Chicago, Anna went on to complete her veterinary degree at the Royal Veterinary College in London, England.  

When not at work, Anna enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling as much as she can, hiking, and hanging out with her cat Professor. 

Yekaterina Buriko, DVM DACVECC

Emergency & Critical Care

Profile coming soon!

Nicole Trainer, VMD

Emergency & Critical Care

Nicole received her Bachelor of Arts in Biomedical Humanities from Hiram College in Ohio. After a year off spent exploring Brooklyn, she moved to Philadelphia and earned her Veterinary Medicine Doctorate (VMD) from the University of Pennsylvania. She graduated in 2014 and made her way to VERG for a rotating internship. She has stayed on as a staff ER doctor since then and is happy to call VERG her professional “home.” Nicole’s veterinary interests include soft tissue surgery and radiology.

Nicole is from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and is an avid ice hockey fan (Go Pens!). Live music, travel, and reading are other passions outside of work. She shares her life with her husband Brett, son Jack, and two dogs, JJ & Rosie.

Sienna Perro, VMD

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Sienna Perro was born and raised in New York City and received her undergraduate degree from Wesleyan University. She then attended veterinary school at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.

During her time off, Sienna enjoys doing jigsaw puzzles and spending time with her partner and 3 cats.

Catherine Frey, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Cathy was born and raised in the California Bay Area and received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a Minor in Biology from the University of California, San Diego. She went on to complete her veterinary degree at the University of California, Davis.

In her free time, she enjoys being outside, going on long walks with her husky mix, trying new foods, and spending time with friends.

Rachel Marderstein, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Rachel is originally from Westchester, NY. She obtained her Bachelor of Science from Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, and then continued her education at Cornell, where she received her veterinary degree. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, baking, and running.

Rachel Price, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Rachel Price grew up on Long Island and graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology & Immunology. She received her veterinary degree from Ohio State University.

In her spare time, she enjoys hanging out with her cats, Ollie and Jamie, traveling, spending time outdoors, and exploring new places in the city.

Vanessa Pinto, BVSc & AH, PAVE

Emergency & Critical Care

Vanessa was born and raised in Mumbai, India. She received her veterinary degree from Bombay Veterinary College, India. Following this, she completed the PAVE clinical training program at the University of Missouri – College of Veterinary Medicine.

In her spare time, she enjoys painting, exploring the city, catching sunshine and fresh air in green spaces, and talking to her 13-year-old Labrador, Chloe.

Benjamin Gingold, DVM, DACVAA

Anesthesia

Ben was born in the distant land of Australia and had, for the past three years, been living and working in North Carolina. He undertook his pre-veterinary training in Zoology at the Australian National University before a job in a wildlife shelter led him to pursue veterinary medicine. He gained his veterinary medicine degree from the University of Melbourne, Australia, in 2013 before going on to work in private practice and then completing a rotating internship at The University of Queensland, Australia. During this time, Ben developed a keen interest in anesthesia, analgesia, and critical care medicine. This subsequently led to him completing a residency program in Anesthesia & Analgesia at North Carolina State University in 2019.

Ben’s particular areas of interest are locoregional analgesia (nerve blocks), chronic pain management, critical care anesthesia & analgesia, and ventilation management.

When not working as a veterinarian, Ben spends his time hiking, camping, seeing live music, and traveling.

He currently shares his home with the most beautiful fluffy cat named Flagyl Fraggle Rock. Ben also hopes to acquire a dog or two, but this decision is yet to be approved by Flagyl.

Christine Galotti, LCSW

About Our Veterinary Clinical Social Worker

Christine Galotti, LCSW is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of experience working therapeutically with a wide variety of populations, including students and their families, veterans, justice-impacted adults, adults navigating substance use treatment, and a general outpatient population seeking mental health treatment and support. As a volunteer animal rescuer, Galotti feels passionately about supporting the people who love and care for animals. In her role as VERG’s Veterinary CSC, she assists clients and staff by focusing on grief and bereavement, compassion fatigue, and the connection between human and animal violence. Galotti has completed graduate coursework in the Human-Animal Bond in Therapy as well as a post-master’s certificate in Veterinary Social Work and animal-assisted interventions at NYU Silver School of Social Work. Galotti has also taught Sociology courses at CUNY Hunter College.

Shanna Wong, DVM

Anesthesia

Shanna graduated from Hunter College, CUNY with a Bachelor of Arts in Biological Sciences. She completed her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at North Carolina State University. After graduation, she completed her small animal rotating internship at The Animal Medical Center, where she found her passion for anesthesia and analgesia. She pursued a specialty internship in Anesthesia and Pain Management at Cornell University, where she stayed to complete her residency.

She has a wide variety of professional interests, including pain management, locoregional anesthesia, exotic/zoo/wildlife species, and anesthesia for cardiac patients.

At home, Shanna lives with her partner and spunky mutt, Cooper. Outside work, she enjoys travel, food and nature.

Jennifer Hess, DVM, MS, DACVAA

Anesthesia

Dr. Hess graduated with a Biology degree from Cornell University before pursuing her DVM at the same institution. She furthered her education by obtaining a master’s degree in veterinary clinical medicine and completing a residency program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Her professional interests encompass specialized anesthesia for cardiac patients and effective pain management. She finds great satisfaction in navigating the challenges presented by complex cases in anesthesia. Driven by a deep admiration for animals, her passion for veterinary medicine was ignited by personal experiences with her pets and guided by a mentor within the veterinary field.

At home, Dr. Hess shares her space with two lively Australian shepherd mixes named Cinnamon and Bo, who keep her constantly engaged. Outside of work, she indulges in the joys of travel and the art of cooking for leisure.

Graham Rossi, DVM, DACVIM

Cardiology

Graham attended the University of Findlay where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Animal Science. He then completed his veterinary degree at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Following veterinary school, he completed a small animal rotating internship at the University of Wisconsin and stayed on to complete a residency in Cardiology. Graham is passionate about all aspects of cardiology and maintains a focus on individualized patient care to provide the best quality of life to his patients and their owners. His clinical interests include congestive heart failure management as well as treatment of arrhythmias. Outside of the hospital, Graham enjoys running, recreational volleyball, and trying new food.

Leah Kim, DVM

Emergency & Critical Care

Bio coming soon!.

Cullen McCarthy, DVM

Surgery

Bio coming soon!

Lia Domney, DVM

Surgery

Bio coming soon!

Michelle Piccione, DVM, DACVD

Dermatology

Dr. Piccione obtained her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 2012. She completed her veterinary degree at University of Illinois in 2016. Following graduation, she completed a small animal rotating internship at VCA South Shore in South Weymouth, Massachusetts. Dr. Piccione then returned to the Midwest to complete a dermatology specialty internship and a dermatology residency at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Dr. Piccione’s research during her residency focused on comparing the presence of anti-CCD IgE in atopic and healthy dogs. Additionally, she focused on quantifying biofilm formation in bacterial isolates from canine otitis and evaluating the use of non-antibiotic therapies for inhibition of biofilm formation. Dr. Piccione is board-certified as a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology.

Dr. Piccione’s interests include creative management of allergic dermatitis, chronic ear disease, and autoimmune diseases. She enjoys playing tennis, riding horses, and traveling in her spare time.

Kit Sanders, DVM, Practice Limited to

Internal Medicine

Bio coming soon

Alysa Cook, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM)

Internal Medicine

Dr. Alysa Cook completed her internship and residency at Animal Medical Center after receiving a veterinary degree at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. After completing her training in New York, she practiced at a large referral hospital in Atlanta. Her professional interests are endocrine disorders, infectious diseases, immune-mediated diseases, and endoscopy. When she’s not working, Alysa enjoys live music, reading, and exploring the city.

Elena Pavlova, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM)

Internal Medicine

Dr. Pavlova graduated from Tulane University with a Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and a minor in Spanish. She went on to complete her veterinary degree at Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine. The following year, she completed a small animal rotating internship at Blue Pearl Emergency and Specialty Hospital in Atlanta, GA. She then pursued a specialty in Small Animal Internal Medicine by completing a 3–year residency at Texas A&M University. During her residency, her research was focused on gastric ulceration and portosystemic shunts. Dr. Pavlova’s clinical interests include gastrointestinal disease, hepatic disease, and infectious disease. Dr. Pavlova’s personal interests include hiking, traveling, making fresh pasta, and exploring the city in her free time.

JP McCue, DVM, DACVIM

SAIM, Neurology

Bio coming soon!

Joli Jarboe, DVM, DACVIM

Neurology

A native of Shepherdsville, KY, Dr. Jarboe graduated from Auburn College of Veterinary Medicine. After spending a year in private practice and two years in a 24-hour referral hospital as an emergency clinician, Dr. Jarboe completed a three-year neurology residency at The University of Missouri-Columbia.

Dr. Jarboe has been a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine for more than 20 years.

Mark Byrum, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

Oncology

Dr. Byrum attended the University of Illinois where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences. He completed his veterinary degree of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. Following veterinary school, he completed a small animal rotating internship at Purdue University. He returned to the University of Illinois to complete a residency in Medical Oncology. Mark values getting the opportunity to help guide families with their pets through a cancer diagnosis and exploring treatment options that will help maintain a good quality-of-life experience. His clinical interests focus on bone cancer and round cell malignancies.

When not working, Mark enjoys exploring the food scene, exercising, and any opportunity for live music.

Michele Cohen, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Oncology), DACVR (Radiation Oncology)

Oncology

Dr. Cohen is a graduate of Brown University and the College of veterinary medicine at Cornell University. She completed her internship in small animal medicine and surgery at The Animal Medical Center and her residency training in medical and radiation oncology at Auburn University. Dr. Cohen has numerous publications and has lectured locally and nationally on various topics in the field of veterinary oncology. She has also received many awards for her contributions to the field, including the E. Gregory MacEwen Memorial Award for the Outstanding Basic Science Research Project from the veterinary Cancer Society in 2002. Dr. Cohen is one of less than 20 veterinarians to be board certified in both medical and radiation oncology. She was in private practice in Long Island prior to joining The Veterinary Emergency and Referral Group in 2006. Dr. Cohen is available for consultation, diagnosis, and treatment of various types of cancer at The Veterinary Emergency and Referral Group. Radiation therapy, if needed, can be performed at a nearby facility.

Nicole Shaw, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM)

Radiology

Dr. Shaw has been part of VERG’s Internal Medicine and Radiology departments since 2006. Her areas of interest include ultrasound, endocrinology, hematology, and infectious and gastrointestinal diseases. She also recently began practicing veterinary acupuncture, and looks forward to making this modality a growing part of her practice. Dr. Shaw received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Tufts University, and completed her internship and residency at the Animal Medical Center. When not at work Dr. Shaw loves spending time with her husband and daughters, and their scruffy mutt, Bernie. She enjoys traveling, reading, running, and the karate class she started last year. Kiai!

Matthew Morgan, DVM, DACVS-SA Chief of Surgery

Surgery

Dr. Morgan graduated from Cornell University, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science. He then completed his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine with honors at St. George’s University with his clinical year performed at Cornell University. He was the recipient of the Pfizer Excellence in Small Animal Surgery Award, as well as inducted into the Phi Zeta Veterinary Honor Society. Following graduation, Dr. Morgan completed a one-year small animal medicine and surgery internship and a one-year surgical specialty internship at Long Island Veterinary Specialists. Dr. Morgan then went on to complete a one-year research fellowship at the Hospital for Special Surgery in regenerative medicine and stem cell research. In 2014, Dr. Morgan joined the team at Affiliated Veterinary Specialists in Orlando, Florida, to complete a comprehensive three-year surgery residency for board certification in the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. While in Florida, Dr. Morgan served as an assistant surgery laboratory instructor at the University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine, from 2014-2017. Dr. Morgan also proudly serves as a Captain in the US Army Reserve Veterinary Corps. As a veterinary surgeon in the military Dr. Morgan and his unit cares for the surgical needs of the over 2,500 US military working dogs both home and abroad.

Dr. Morgan is passionate about minimally invasive surgical procedures including joint arthroscopy and laparoscopy. He has completed multiple advanced training programs dedicated to the advancement of minimally invasive techniques and has conducted continuing education lectures to veterinarians on advancements in minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Morgan’s research interests are primarily in orthopedics and has published multiple articles on canine cruciate ligament surgery (ACL surgery). Dr. Morgan is an avid single engine airplane and glider pilot as well as a passionate deep sea scuba diver.
On his days off he enjoys playing golf as well as serving the Village of Quogue Volunteer Fire Department as a firefighter and certified EMT.

Publications:
Morgan, M.J., Frazho, J.K. Comparison of TPLO tibial tuberosity fractures with and without an in situ
rotational pin. BMC Res Notes 11, 368 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13104-018-3474-7

Morgan, M.J., Lurie, D.M. & Villamil, A.J. Evaluation of tumor volume reduction of nasal carcinomas
versus sarcomas in dogs treated with definitive fractionated megavoltage radiation: 15 cases
(2010–2016). BMC Res Notes 11, 70 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13104-018-3190-3

Jin DW, Peck JN, Tano CA, Morgan MJ. Discrepancy between true distance of tibial tuberosity
advancement and cage size: An ex vivo study. Vet Surg. 2019 Feb;48(2):186-191. doi:
10.1111/vsu.13135. Epub 2018 Nov 22. PMID: 30467883.

Gingold BM, Milloway MC, Morgan MJ. A novel motor-sparing locoregional nerve block technique for
stifle surgery in dogs. Vet Anaesth Analg. 2020 Sep;47(5):731-732. doi: 10.1016/j.vaa.2020.06.001. Epub
2020 Jun 20. PMID: 32727674.

Credentials:
Board-certified veterinary surgeon (Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons)

Dong-Woo Jin, DVM, DACVS-SA

Surgery

Dr. Jin grew up in Port Washington, NY and attended Stony Brook University for the undergraduate studies. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry with magna cum laude. Dr. Jin was heavily involved in scientific research at Brookhaven National Laboratory and studied the effects of isoflurane on neocortical metabolites. He volunteered to serve at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County Farm and Education Center for the community. Dr. Jin attended Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine for a veterinary degree. He completed small animal medicine and surgical internship, surgical specialty internship, and surgical residency at Affiliated Veterinary Specialists in Orlando, FL. His professional interests include orthopedic and soft tissue surgery, especially minimally invasive procedures such as arthroscopy and laparoscopy. Dr. Jin’s personal interests include sports, technology, and traveling. He lives with Star, a true Floridian mixed breed dog who supported him throughout his internships and residency.

Anjana Mangalat, BVMS, MRCVS

Emergency & Critical Care

Dr. Mangalat is originally from New Hampshire. She attended the University of Vermont, where she obtained her degree as Bachelor of Science. Anjana then chose to pursue her veterinary degree abroad in ‘sunny’ Scotland at the University of Glasgow. She is particularly keen on soft tissue surgery and emergency medicine. A few of her personal interests include hiking/exploring, travel, reading, music of all genres, yoga, and restaurant hopping, among others.

Jelenny Viera, Referral Coordinator

Jelenny is a proud manhattanite who joined VERG in 2013! She is known for being detailed-oriented and thorough and therefore is responsible for many of our patient and client related tasks. As a referral coordinator she works closely with our Specialty Medicine Veterinarians and the referring practices. In her off time, she enjoys spending time with her family and watching Netflix while cuddling with her 3 cats named Moo Moo (Mom), Blackie (Son) and Wilson (Dad).

Noelia Perez, Hospital Supervisor

Noelia first joined VERG in 2015 as a Client Service Representative because of her love for animals. She is now a referral coordinator and is an integral part of our referral team. When she is not working, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family, her two lovely cats and her spunky chiweenie named Stitch.

Michael Levitzke – Hospital Administrator

Administration

Michael has been with VERG since May 2016 and is the Practice Manager for the hospital. Michael gets to enjoy the best of both worlds living in the suburbs of New Jersey and experiencing the city life of Brooklyn, New York. The daily trip from New Jersey to New York may be challenging some days, but a wise man once said it’s not the commute but the destination that counts! When he is not at VERG, Michael enjoys spending time with his family and their “enthusiastic” black lab, Bella!

Dee Hechme Hospital Manager

Administration

Dee is a Brooklyn native that started at VERG in 2007 and loves working with her compassionate and dedicated co-workers. She has 25 years of management experience. Dee likes to spend her spare time camping, hiking, traveling, painting and gardening, and has an affinity for oysters. Dee is a believer that nothing is permanent, we must make every moment count, for tomorrow is never promised.

Nicole Vande Zande, Human Resources Coordinator

Administration

Nicole Vande Zande has been in Human Resources for 3+ years and enjoys being part of the VERG team. As the HR coordinator, she is dedicated to fostering a positive and thriving work environment for our talented team. This is her first experience in veterinary medicine, but already loves being around our furry patients. 

She shares an adorable 5-year-old Maltese yorkie, Mika, with her partner (Mika is also known for being The Assistant to HR). In her free time, Nicole enjoys dancing, crafting, energy work, and being outside with her family!   

Blane Anderson, Supervisor

Bio coming soon!

Arelis Pomales, Supervisor

Arelis started working at VERG in 2006. She is a warm, spiritual, kind-hearted, compassionate person who loves helping people. In her spare time, she loves spending time with her husband/family and finds peace when she is surrounded by music. Arelis aspires to be a Musical producer and pursue her own singing career in the future. She truly enjoys her role at VERG, and she loves her team. She strives to make your front desk experience as seamless as possible.

Jason Vargas, Hospital Supervisor

Bio coming soon

Daisy Hernandez, LVT Supervisor

Bio coming soon!

Crystal Contaldi Hospital Manager

Administration

Crystal is a Licensed Veterinary Technician who has been working with animals since 2001. With over 20 years of experience, she is well-rounded in the hospital setting. After several years in emergency and critical care, and 10 years in a stand-alone veterinary imaging facility, Crystal found her passion for anesthesia. She moved from New Jersey to Brooklyn, and in July 2021 she joined the VERG surgery team. Crystal is especially excited to work alongside our Anesthesiologist, Dr. Ben Gingold. In her spare time, Crystal enjoys biking, beach days, craft beer, and hanging out with her cat Blue and her two dogs, Martini and Kona.

Eugene Park, LVT Hospital Supervisor

Eugene is a New York City native from Queens who enjoys spending time fishing, learning about bushcraft, and practicing primitive survival techniques during his free time. Earning his high school diploma in 3 years, Eugene spent what would have been his final year in high school traveling and doing missionary work in El Salvador and Costa Rica. After returning from traveling abroad, Eugene pursued an education in Veterinary Technology and Nursing at Fiorello H. LaGuardia Community College in Long Island City. Upon completing the accredited program and the VTNE, he received his license to practice Veterinary Nursing in 2011. Eugene has extensive experience working in Exotic and Wildlife medicine in Nassau County and is now focusing on Canine and Feline Nursing in Brooklyn at VERG. At home, Eugene’s personal space is regularly invaded by his oversized Pomeranian, Ace, and his oversized cat, Brendan Jones. As a lover of comedy and humor, Eugene is always quick with a joke or a humorous anecdote to lighten the mood in any room and can be easily found by his boisterous and characteristic laughter. If you see (or more likely hear) him, please don’t hesitate to say hello!

Forest McKenzie, Financial Services, Supervisor

Forest McKenzie is a member of the Financial Services Department and Supervisor Team. Before joining the team in October 2020, he spent 7 years working in various hotel management roles. He feels lucky that Covid closed one chapter and started another, with VERG being at the center of that transition. Forest was born and raised in the great state of Ohio and moved to NYC to attend Pace University, where he graduated in 2016 with a BBA in Management. He is currently pursuing his Master of Accountancy degree from Baruch College and hopes to be a CPA one day. If the free time arises, he loves to watch the back of his eyelids or go out for brunch or a good drink around the city!

Melanie Ruiz, Hospital Supervisor

Bio coming soon!

Johanna Espinoza, Hospital Supervisor

Johanna is a Brooklyn native who has been in the veterinary field since 1997. She joined VERG in 2007 and has been an instrumental member of our team since then, becoming a hospital supervisor in 2020. Her interests lie in emergency and critical care cases and helping her fellow team members learn new skills. On her time off she enjoys travelling and spending time with her human daughter Hailey and her fur babies Mr. Bear and Cupcake.

Amanda Baez, Hospital Supervisor

Bio Coming Soon

Karen Jones, Supervisor

Karen Jones joined VERG at the beginning of 2001 as a veterinary assistant. She is currently a supervisor who enjoys working with animals and aspires to become a veterinarian. Karen was born and raised in Brooklyn, and when she is not working, she enjoys reading, going to museums, food festivals and street fairs, and taking care of her 20-year-old red-eared slider.

Kenneth Manalang, LVT, Technician, Supervisor

Ken joined the VERG Critical Care team in 2017. After several years at general practices, he found a passion for emergency and critical care while working under the many specialists at VERG. Ken has a special interest for cases that include sepsis and coagulopathies.

On his days off, Ken enjoys making music, trying new foods, and spending time with his cats Zip and Zelly and his wife Lisa.

Jonathan Castillo, Supervisor

Jonathan has been in the healthcare industry for over 10 years before joining VERG in 2021. As the facilities supervisor, he oversees the maintenance and operation of our building, equipment, and grounds. His main focus is ensuring everything runs smoothly. In his spare time, Jonathan enjoys building cars and motorcycles, playing video games, paintball, and spending time with his kids and animals—his dog Chewie Boom Box, and his huge dragon, Tillie.

Milagros Fernandez, Supervisor

Milagros Fernandez (better known as Milly) has been part of the VERG team since 2014. Milagros has a multitude of medical experiences over the past 25 years in Pediatrics, No-Fault Workers’ Compensation, Neurology, HIV specialty, and veterinary medicine. Milagros has not looked back after leaving human medicine for veterinary medicine, as it is far more rewarding.

On her personal time, Milagros enjoys Sunday dinners with her four kids and husband and wine poolside in her back yard watching her dog Rayvyn chase after birds.

Richard O. Davis Jr., Inventory Coordinator

Richard O. Davis, Jr. (better known as Davis) has been a hospital supervisor for 3+ years. Davis’ connection to the vet field goes beyond working at VERG. Davis was the owner of a pet supply and grooming store in Bedford-Stuyvesant. Davis is a huge pet lover who has three 3 cats and one 1 dog.

When not working, Davis enjoys running throughout Brooklyn, coaching his youth track team, and baking delicious pineapple cakes.

Natasha Anglin, Human Resources Coordinator

Bio Coming Soon