Tell us about your medical background and experience.

I have been a veterinarian since 1992 and a board-certified veterinary surgeon since 2000. I attended Cornell University for my veterinary training and completed a rotating medical and surgical internship at The Animal Medical Center in New York City. I remained at The Animal Medical Center to pursue a three-year surgical residency.

I have been practicing in New Jersey since 2016 in a referral and emergency hospital setting. Since 2011, I have collaborated with some zoo veterinarians to provide surgical services to the top three zoos in New Jersey, which has been an amazing experience. I have also participated in treating and performing surgeries on rescued wildlife.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

Being a veterinary surgeon has always been a dream come true. Applying my surgical skills to an injured or sick animal is my most precious reward as a caregiver.

What clinical interests or medical topics interest you most?

I perform both soft tissue and orthopedic surgery. I love working with companion animals, and I truly enjoy working with zoo animals, particularly big cats. I have performed surgery on several cat species, from tigers to small exotic cats.

Personal background and fun facts about yourself?

I have a family that includes 5 dogs. They all keep me very busy. There is always a project on my plate. One fun fact about me is that I spent a month in South Africa working at a big cat sanctuary where I provided husbandry and learned about animal conservation. Preserving animals in their natural environment is a strong passion of mine. I am an advocate for all animals, big and small, but especially exploited and endangered species. I would love to do more work in Africa, or wherever the wind may take me, to help provide the best possible care.

What has been your favorite part about working at AERA?

I enjoy working at AERA because the entire team is so respectful and friendly. Everyone has taken the time to get to know me and make sure I have what I need to do my job effectively and efficiently. I couldn’t ask for a better surgery and anesthesia team. I know that when we have a patient in for surgery, they will receive the utmost professional care to ensure a positive outcome. It takes trust in your coworkers to accomplish this, and I have that trust.

Outside of the wonderful people who work at AERA, the hospital is top-notch with the latest technology and equipment. It is a big, beautiful hospital, and easy to work in.

The administration ensures the doctors have what they need, when they need it, to treat every animal with medical care and professionalism. I couldn't ask for a better place to work.