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Dr. Tanya Sparling

Hospital Owner, Veterinarian (DVM), Canine Rehabilitation Therapist

Dr. Tanya Sparling is a dedicated veterinarian (DVM) and the proud owner of AVH, a position she has held since 2012 after purchasing the practice. She began her journey in veterinary medicine in 2009, and from the very start, her passion for animal care has driven her every step of the way.
While she enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine, Dr. Sparling has recently developed a special interest in canine rehabilitation. She is particularly passionate about helping senior dogs and cats live their best lives by providing them with the comfort and support they need in their later years.
Outside of her professional work, Dr. Sparling is an avid hiker who loves spending time outdoors. Whether it's enjoying the fresh air or exploring nature's beauty, she values the time spent with her family, which helps her maintain a balanced and fulfilling life.

Eric Sparling

Hospital Co-owner

Eric has been a part of the AVH team since 2020, though he’s been helping out on occasion for years prior. As a hospital co-owner Eric brings a unique blend of hands-on animal care and leadership to the clinic. Outside of veterinary medicine, Eric is a published novelist, with works including Peak and Tantramar, adding a creative flair to his career. When he’s not working or writing, Eric enjoys walking and hiking, taking time to connect with nature. His passion for both animals and storytelling, along with his dedication to the team, makes him an invaluable part of AVH.

Barb Cook

Financial Advisor

Barb is a seasoned Financial Advisor at AVH with a rich history in veterinary medicine that spans more than five decades. She began her career in 1972, taking on various roles such as assisting with surgery, providing medical treatments, and working the front desk—tasks that are now carried out by Technicians and Assistants. In 2005, Barb transitioned into the hospital’s bookkeeping department and eventually became the Financial Advisor for the hospital, contributing her expertise to ensure its continued success.
Throughout her career, Barb developed a special interest in C-sections and large animals, especially horses, drawing from her early experiences growing up on her grandfather's farm. She has had a lifelong connection to horses, having owned and cared for them over the years. Outside of work, Barb enjoys clog dancing and cherishes the time spent with her family and animals. Her wealth of experience and love for the veterinary field make her an invaluable asset to the AVH team.

Kim Giffin

Hospital Manager, Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)

Kim is the Hospital Manager and a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) at AVH, bringing nearly two decades of experience to the team. She began her career in veterinary medicine in 2005 and joined AVH in 2006 as a veterinary technician. Over the years, Kim’s dedication and expertise earned her promotions, first to Head Technician, and then to Clinic Manager in 2017.
Kim has a special interest in emergency medicine and orthopedic surgery, where she thrives in high-pressure situations, always striving to provide the best care for her patients. Outside of work, Kim enjoys spending time with horses and riding her side-by-side, embracing her love for the outdoors and adventure. Her leadership, skills, and passion for animals make her an integral part of the AVH team.

Renee Fitzpatrick

Client Service Manager, Client Service Representative (CSR), Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)

Renee is the Client Service Manager at AVH, a position she has held since 2022, bringing years of experience in both veterinary care and customer service. She began her journey in veterinary medicine in 2012 as kennel staff and later became a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). In 2016, she transitioned to a Customer Service Representative (CSR) role, where her passion for helping clients and coworkers shined. With her strong management skills and dedication, she was promoted to Client Service Manager in 2022.
Renee has a special interest in management and enjoys creating positive experiences for both clients and her colleagues. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her family, working in her local church, and, of course, enjoying a good cup of coffee. Her combination of skills, compassion, and leadership makes her a vital part of the AVH team.

Dr. Carolyn Hollis

Veterinarian (DVM), Lead Veterinarian

Dr. Carolyn Hollis has been a dedicated member of the veterinary field since 1998, joining AVH in the same year. Over the years, she has become an integral part of the management team, currently serving as the Lead Veterinarian.
Dr. Hollis has a special interest in internal medicine and soft tissue surgery, where her expertise and compassionate care shine in providing the best possible outcomes for her patients. Outside of work, she enjoys baking, often finding creative ways to unwind and share her delicious treats with friends and family. Dr. Hollis' commitment to her work and her love for animals make her an invaluable part of the AVH team.

Dr. Emily Youé

Veterinarian (DVM)

Dr. Emily Youé has been a dedicated part of the AVH team since 2011, bringing over a decade of experience in veterinary medicine.
With a special interest in small animal internal medicine and surgery, Dr. Youé has developed a particular passion for cruciate repair. She deeply values the relationships she's built with both clients and their pets, feeling privileged to be part of their pets' health journeys and well-being.
Outside of work, Dr. Youé enjoys reading and staying active through fitness. Her expertise, compassion, and commitment to her patients make her a cornerstone of the AVH team.

Dr. Bonnie Harrison

Veterinarian (DVM)

Dr. Bonnie Harrison is a dedicated Veterinarian (DVM) at AVH, joining the team in 2015. She started her career in veterinary medicine in 2008 and has since developed a love for general practice, appreciating the wide variety of cases it brings each day.
Outside of work, Dr. Harrison enjoys spending quality time with her kids, cherishing her family life. Her broad experience and passion for diverse veterinary challenges make her an essential part of the AVH team.

Dr. Ali Frye

Veterinarian (DVM)

Dr. Frye began her veterinary career in 2018 and joined the AVH team that same year. Passionate about the diversity that veterinary medicine offers, Dr. Frye enjoys working across a wide range of interests, including soft tissue surgery, fracture repairs, forensics/pathology, wildlife/exotics, and caring for aging patients. The ability to tackle so many different challenges each day is what keeps Dr. Frye excited about her work.
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Frye is committed to making a difference through volunteer work, actively participating with Colchester Ground Search and Rescue and the Marine Animal Response Society. In her free time, Dr. Frye enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, paddleboarding, and kayaking, as well as creative pursuits such as woodworking and painting. They also have a unique interest in animal osteology, further expanding her understanding of the animal world.
Dr. Frye’s dedication to animals and the community extends both in and out of the clinic, where she will continue to explore her diverse interests with passion and care.

Dr. Colleen Apt

Veterinarian (DVM)

Dr. Colleen Apt is a dedicated Veterinarian (DVM) at AVH, joining the team in 2021. She began her career in veterinary medicine in 2008 as a veterinary assistant and later earned her DVM in 2021.
Dr. Apt has a special interest in soft tissue surgery and enjoys seeing puppy and kitten appointments, helping set the foundation for their health and well-being. Outside of work, she stays active with her dogs, participating in agility and flyball. She also loves hiking, being outdoors, and has a special fondness for Border Collies. Her passion for animals and her hands-on experience make her a valued member of the AVH team.

Emily Maclean

Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)

Emily began her career in veterinary medicine in 2006 and joined AVH in 2007. As a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT), she has developed a strong passion for anesthesia and animal nursing, areas where she excels in providing compassionate and expert care.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and indulging in her love of fishing, making the most of her downtime in the great outdoors.
Emily’s dedication to her patients and her craft makes her a valued member of the AVH team.

Julie MacDonnell

Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)

Julie is a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) at AVH, bringing over 15 years of experience to the team. She started her veterinary career in 2004 and joined AVH in 2009. Julie has a strong interest in laboratory work and radiology, where her attention to detail and expertise contribute greatly to the care of her patients.
Outside of work, Julie has a deep connection to nature, having grown up on a family farm surrounded by animals. She enjoys hiking, snowshoeing, and taking rides in her side-by-side, always appreciating the beauty of the outdoors. Her passion for animals and the natural world make her a valued member of the AVH team.

Angelina Dickson

Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)

Angelina is a dedicated Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) who began her career in veterinary medicine in 2011 and joined the AVH team in 2014. She has a special interest in exotic animals and emergency care, using her skills and knowledge to help a diverse range of patients in critical situations.
Outside of her work, Angelina enjoys spending time outdoors and exploring her creative side through arts and crafts, finding both to be perfect ways to relax and recharge.

Alishia Knol

Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)

Alishia is a skilled Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) who began her veterinary career in 2018, starting at AVH as kennel staff before transitioning to an RVT in 2020. Her interest in emergency medicine and client education drives her to provide exceptional care and valuable guidance to pet owners in need. Alishia has a strong passion for patient care and always ensures that our inpatients receive the best possible care while in the hospital.

Outside of her professional role, Alishia loves expressing her creativity through art, playing video games, and spending time in nature, all of which help her recharge and stay inspired.

Jessica Kay

Veterinary Assistant (VA)

Jessica is a passionate Veterinary Assistant (VA) who began her career in veterinary medicine in 2019. She started at AVH that same year as kennel staff before transitioning to a Veterinary Assistant in 2020. Jessica has a special interest in TPLO and orthopedic surgery, and she’s dedicated to helping pets recover and thrive after surgical procedures.
Outside of work, she’s all about fitness, making sure she stays active and healthy to keep up with her busy life.

Robyn MacDonald

Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)

Robyn is a skilled and compassionate Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) with over a decade of experience in veterinary medicine, having started her journey in 2012. She joined the AVH team in 2021, where she continues to make a positive impact with her dedication and expertise. Robyn has a special interest in emergency care and dental procedures, where she thrives in high-pressure situations and ensures the best care for her patients.
Outside of her professional work, Robyn enjoys grooming dogs and cats, bringing her love for animals into every aspect of her life.

Kiera Fullerton

Veterinary Assistant

Kiera has been part of the AVH team since November 2015. She attended college to become a Veterinary Assistant. Her love for animals shines through with everything she does. She has responsibilities throughout the hospital ranging from client care to kennel duties. Outside of AVH her hobbies include walking her dog Shyla and spending time with family and friends. Kiera is originally from Parrsboro but recently relocated to Amherst. Her future plan is to work towards obtaining her RVT status.

Jenelle

Registered Veterinary Assistant

Bio coming soon...

Sara Hall

Veterinary Tech/Assistant

Rose D’Orsay is one of our talented client service representatives. Her passion for animal welfare and dedication to helping people has made her an indispensable member of our team. Rose is from River Hebert, originally, but now lives in Brookdale with her husband and daughter. Spending time with her family is a top priority for Rose. She enjoys crafting, watching movies and spending time outdoors fishing.

Rose D'Orsay

Client Service Representative

Rose D’Orsay is one of our talented client service representatives. Her passion for animal welfare and dedication to helping people has made her an indispensable member of our team. Rose is from River Hebert, originally, but now lives in Brookdale with her husband and daughter. Spending time with her family is a top priority for Rose. She enjoys crafting, watching movies and spending time outdoors fishing.

Gillian Strong

Client Service Representative

Gillian Strong hails from St. John’s, Newfoundland. She moved to Nova Scotia for school, and came to Amherst with her husband, who has roots in our community. Gillian has created her own local roots through the YMCA and her involvement in the Amherst Striders--she’s an aspiring triathlete--not to mention all the clients and coworkers she’s met at AVH in her role as a client service representative. “I love that no day is the same…,” says Gillian, “…[and] that I am a part of a strong team that strives to provide the best possible care.”

Emma Harrison

Client Service Representative

Bio coming soon...

Shawna Richardson

Client Service Representative

Rose D’Orsay is one of our talented client service representatives. Her passion for animal welfare and dedication to helping people has made her an indispensable member of our team. Rose is from River Hebert, originally, but now lives in Brookdale with her husband and daughter. Spending time with her family is a top priority for Rose. She enjoys crafting, watching movies and spending time outdoors fishing.

Vanessa Ward-Estabrooks

Patient Care Assistant

Bio coming soon...

Shannon Beattie

Office Call Assistant

Bio coming soon...

Drew

Bio coming soon...