Our Team

Hello! I’m Dr. Ma. Having had a lifelong passion for animals, my desire to become a veterinarian began at the tender age of 5. As a child, I was only allowed to have very small pets of my own, such as hamsters and goldfish. Over the years, I somehow convinced my parents to expand my care network to a variety of other small mammals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas. Needless to say, from there on I was hooked.

Having also had a lifelong fascination with science, my studies led me to a Zoology degree at the University of Toronto, followed by a Masters degree in Biology at Queen’s University, studying hamster behavior and reproduction. Shortly after, I got into the Ontario Veterinary College. During vet school, I decided that companion animal medicine was the path for me, as it afforded me the greatest chance to strengthen and lengthen the special bond between animals and their human guardians. Since graduating in 2008, I can think of nothing else I’d rather do with my life. While I love the variety that general practice has to offer, I particularly enjoy the areas of soft tissue surgery and dentistry, and I still get giddy with excitement when our littlest small mammal patients come through the door.

When not at the clinic, I spend my time geeking out to mid-90’s indie rock, singing karaoke, bike riding, and taste-testing new ramen spots in the city. I currently live in midtown Toronto with my husband Scott, my young daughter Hazel, and my amazing geriatric kitty, Finnigan, who inspires me every day to become a better veterinarian.

I’m Dr. Pilar! I was raised on a farm in Patagonia, Chile, and have always been in contact with animals. Growing up in this environment allowed me to develop a passion for science, environmentalism, medicine and animal welfare.

I began my studies at the “Universidad Austral de Chile” (Southern University of Chile) in 2000, and hold a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Biology as well as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree.

After coming to Canada, I completed all requirements to obtain my license to practice in North America, so you could say I’ve become a doctor twice in my lifetime!

I’m fluent in Spanish and happy to discuss pet care with owners in their native language.

Hello, I’m Dr. Weir! I was born and raised in Calgary, AB.

I always wanted cats and dogs but had to wait until I was an adult due to my parent’s allergies (and I wasn’t allowed a snake)!

Initially wanting to go into human medicine, I completed my B.Sc. in Exercise and Health Physiology (Kinesiology) at the University of Calgary. I shifted my goal to veterinary medicine in my early 20s and graduated from UCVM in 2015. I was a small animal practitioner in Calgary, then Seattle – USA, before returning to Canada in 2020.

My interests are teaching, preventive medicine, dentistry, anesthesia, fear-free handling, and everything cat! While COVID has made exploring Toronto a bit tricky, but I hope to travel extensively when not working. I currently live in Midtown with my partner and our kitty.

Pets:
Montreal street cat turned house brat named Minou.

Fun facts:
A competitive dancer and gymnast as a child, I’ve re-connected to tap dancing as an adult, and love it!

Hi, I’m Dr. Pawliwec! I grew up in Brantford, Ontario in a family full of health care practitioners. With the combined love of animals and medicine, I knew becoming a veterinarian was the perfect path for me.

I first attended The University of Western Ontario where I received an Honours Specialization in Biology. I then made the biggest and best decision of my life and moved to Dublin, Ireland, where I studied Veterinary Medicine at the University College Dublin. After 4 amazing years, I moved back home to start my career as a Veterinarian.

I first worked in London, Ontario at a clinic that specialized in spay and neuter. I then moved to Toronto and worked in the GTA, prior to finding my position at Wellesley Animal Hospital. I have a strong interest in surgery, dermatology, and neurology.

In my free time, when I’m not playing with my kitty (a rescued in-remission diabetic), I love travelling, baking and hiking! I look forward to meeting all of my new clients and patients!

Hi! I’m Dr. Yu. I’ve wanted to be a veterinarian since I was 12 (fortunately or unfortunately, it surpassed the desire to be a magician).

I did my BSc in Biology and Psychology at Wilfrid Laurier University and then completed my veterinary degree at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. My clinical interests include geriatric care, pain management, and fear-free practice.

When I’m not working on vet and vet related things, I love to spend time with friends and family surrounded by great food, being outdoors, or playing volleyball.

I’ve always been a firm believer that animals can bring out our best selves and love that I can enrich this special bond through health care so just let me know how I can help 😊.

Pets:
Sir Henry. Adopted in 2017, he’s a chatty Cathy and a former fat cat (though he’s been known to fluctuate around the holidays).

Fun Fact:
Not surprisingly, I am terrible at magic.

Dr. Izzy Hirji is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine with an honours B.Sc. in Zoology. He has a background in both domestic and wildlife medicine, pathology and conservation, and has trained at several zoos and sanctuaries in this capacity both in North America and abroad.

He currently works as a locum vet around the downtown Toronto area with a special interest/expertise in exotics and runs a mobile practice for exotic companion animals, wildlife centres and animal sanctuaries. In addition, he works with several local and international primate sanctuaries and is actively involved in wildlife conservation initiatives abroad.

He was recently featured on the 2020 Nat Geo Wild series “Jungle Animal Rescue” and on the 2017 Nat Geo Wild documentary “Chimp School”.

He is extremely passionate about environmental conservation and One Health. Asides from veterinary medicine, he is also an avid photographer and web designer.

Hi! My name is Jen, but many people call me JB.

I grew up on a farm a few hours away before finishing college and coming to Toronto in 2006. I then spent 4 years working at a pet supply store while running my own dog walking business. Spending so much time outside, I often found injured animals that needed help.

Inspired, I took a wildlife rehabilitation course that ignited my interest in medicine and was immediately drawn to the Veterinary Technician program at Seneca College. I graduated with honours in 2013 and took my licensing exams to become an RVT, picking up experience at a hospital in Newmarket before finding my home with Wellesley in early 2014. I took over as practice manager in late 2016, and couldn’t be happier to be in a position where I can help both pets and people!

Pets: A grumpy calico cat named Frost
Fun Fact: I love space exploration and I’ve been a member of the Planetary Society since 2012; I attended the Falcon Heavy rocket launch and my name is actually in space, on board NASA’s OSIRIS REx.
Heroes: James Herriot, Bill Nye the Science Guy, and Miss Frizzle from the Magic School Bus.

Hello! My name is Kristen, but everyone calls me Kris.

I grew up in a large family of seven kids, and even more pets consisting of birds, snakes, cats, dogs, hamsters, fish, ferrets, and even a scorpion! This sparked my interest in wanting to work with animals, so I completed the Animal Care course at Durham College, and that is where I discovered the world of veterinary medicine. I graduated from the Seneca College Veterinary Technician program in 2017, and aside from the wealth of knowledge and experiences I gained there, I also adopted my two adorable kitties Foxy and Vita.

I began the next chapter of my life at Wellesley Animal Hospital in the beginning of 2018, and I don’t think I could have found a more perfect fit! I love working alongside such dedicated, enthusiastic, loving individuals who share the same passion for animal welfare as I do!

Pets: Two sassy black cats Foxy & Vita, a ball python named Gwar.
Fun Facts: I am a horror fanatic who also has a talent for special effects makeup.
Heroes: Temple Grandin, Greg Nicotero.

Hello, I’m Selene! I started at Wellesley as a placement student in 2017 before signing on and working with this awesome team, who supported me into becoming a RVT.

Like many others in this field, I was surrounded with love from all sorts of animals as a child. Having a grandpa who was a farmer in the Philippines, I grew up with dogs, cats, goats, pigs & rabbits in my backyard! Outside of treating and cuddling pets, I love camping, hiking, attempting to bake, & looking at pictures of our former clinic cat, Nuggy.

I look forward to meeting and getting to know everyone’s pets!

Pets: Nuggy the clinic cat <3 Fun Facts: I’m as tall and long as a blue whale’s heart!
Heroes: John Wick & Black Mamba

Hello! My name is Chelsea, and I am one of the RVT’s here at Wellesley Animal Hospital. I joined this amazing family in 2019 and have never met a more dedicated and crazier bunch!

I have always loved animals, ever since I was a child, and grew up with dogs, cats, and some small exotics as well. Growing up, I knew I wanted to work in the veterinary field. I had the chance to witness some RVT’s in action one day, and from that point, I knew I wanted to become one of these extraordinary people!

I graduated from Brock University, with a BSc in Biological Sciences then attended Northern College to start my journey to become an RVT. I gained many experiences and studying in Northern Ontario was beautiful (and cold), but it was also there, I adopted my handsome, polydactyl kitty named Pixel. I graduated from the Veterinary Technician program in 2017, then moved back home to start my career helping animals.

After 2 years working in my hometown, I moved to Toronto and found my new home at Wellesley, where I have already been able to become a better technician, thanks to all the support and knowledge from the entire staff! I can’t wait to meet all your fur babies!

Pets: My cat Pixel, and 2 guinea pigs Frank n’ Bean.
Fun Facts: I love horror, video games, and anime!
Heroes: Charles Darwin, Link, Hermes, Pikachu.

Hey, there! My name is Kimberly, but everyone calls me Kim.

I grew up in Toronto and, uncommon to the others, didn’t exactly know what I wanted to be when I grew up. I realized I was passionate about animal care when I got my very first cat in grade 10 and soon became interested in the veterinary industry.

I started at Wellesley in January 2019 as a first-year Tech student from Sheridan College. I went on to continue my second-year placement semesters at Wellesley and luckily joined the team in July 2020, where everyone welcomed me with open arms as a new grad!

I soon became a Registered Veterinary Technician in September and look forward to all the new experiences I will gain not only with this awesome team but with the lovely patients and clients I’ll have the pleasure to meet.

Pets: Fruity, the nervous girl, and Fanny, the sassy girl
Fun Facts: I’m ambidextrous!
Heroes: Ariana Grande, Dr. Pilar, Emily, and all my cool fellow RVTs

Hello, I’m Kara!

I grew up in Toronto and am a graduate of the Veterinary Technician Program at Sheridan College.

I have always had a love for animals and started horse back riding every weekend at the age of 7. I enjoyed show jumping and competed in many shows at the barn.

A couple of years after not finding a career I really enjoyed, I decided to make a change to something I was passionate about and went back to school to become an RVT. I couldn’t be happier with my decision and I love helping animals every day!

Pets: Zoe the Morkie and Tofu my rescue cat
Fun facts: I dance salsa and bachata
Heroes: James Aspey

Hello, my name is Solara! I started at Wellesley back in 2017 as a co-op student and am now one of the Animal Care Ambassadors.

I grew up all across Canada, mainly on farms, so I’ve known since I was around 4 years old that I wanted to work with animals.

When I’m not cuddling the large assortment of pets that come through our doors I can usually be found racing in a pool, teaching sports to kids, or playing every video game I can get my hands on!

Pets: I have four cats named Barry Allen, Ash Williams, Arya Stark, and Xenomorph. I also have two guinea pigs named Thor and Loki and four rats named Frigga, Sif, Valkyrie, and Hela.
Fun Facts: I have a travel book that contains a list of the best poutine in North America
Heroes: Steve Irwin, Unus Annus, and all the members of Achievement Hunter

Hi, I’m Aishlinn! I’m the ACA here at Wellesley.

My love of animals started with a hamster named Chip when I was 6 years old. From then on I was surrounded by animals, running my own pet sitting and working for a dog daycare throughout my teens. Typically you’ll find me in the back, cuddling your animals and crying over their cuteness (literally).

When I’m not at Wellesley Animal Hospital I’m studying Advertising and Marketing at Centennial College or visiting my family overseas.

Pets: Harley-Quinn and littermate Bane (pictured)
Fun facts: I am a dual citizen, Canadian and Irish
Heroes: the team here at Wellesley 🙂

Hello, my name is Kirstyn! I’m one of the animal health advocates here at Wellesley, joining the team in mid 2017.

I graduated with a BA in Psychology in 2014, and began my journey to find a meaningful career where I could help people.

The pieces of the puzzle came together, as I realized that my love for animals, interest in the medical field, and desire to make a difference could be channeled productively by working in an animal hospital. Shortly after, I found the perfect fit at Wellesley, and couldn’t be happier!

Pets: Fur-baby, Keelee
Fun Fact: Amie and I are actually childhood best friends!
Heroes: Minerva McGonegall in Harry Potter

Hello, my name is Carissa and I am from Hong Kong!

I’ve lived in Toronto since grade 9 and just graduated from the University of Toronto with a double major in Animal Physiology & Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.

I have always been interested in animal welfare and have a passion for helping animals. I have worked as a veterinary assistant in Hong Kong, then joined the Wellesley team as an animal health advocate in November 2018.

I am also a wildlife rehabilitation intern at the Toronto Wildlife Centre, providing care to more fluff babies (red foxes, coyotes and tons of pigeons!).

Pets: 2 adorable babies – Bobo (Papillon) & Happy (Border Collie)
Fun Facts: I am a professional blanket burrito that speaks both Cantonese and Mandarin.
Heroes: Google

Hi, I’m Heather! I grew up just outside London England, until moving to Canada in 2018 I’d never lived more than 15 minutes from my Mum.

I grew up with more furry friends than human friends, my grandparents had a farm and I’ve had horses, cows, goats, chickens, cats, and dogs as friends while growing up. When I was a child I always wanted to be a big mammal vet, somewhere along the line that changed and I’ve worked in catering, as a debt collector, and in recruitment.

When I received my permanent residency in March of 2020 I decided to try my luck and finally get to work with animals, luckily the WAH family saw my (not so inner) inner nerd as a good thing and gave me a chance. I can honestly say these strange humans have all become family to me.

Pets: One grumpy German Spitz named Samba who came with me from England.
Fun Fact: I went to finishing school when I was a child and know the correct way to stir tea and hold a teacup (but I won’t hold it against you if you don’t).
Heroes: my Mum, my Nan and my Husband.

Hello! My name is Harper and I’m a customer service representative here at Wellesley.

I grew up surrounded by animals and currently have two cats who are my whole world. In my spare time, I love to read about music history, explore the city and tend to my houseplants.

I recently graduated with a BA in Political Science and was looking to start a career that allowed me to make a positive impact on people’s lives. I’m very excited to be a part of the team at Wellesley Animal Hospital and it is a dream to be able to work with like-minded people every day. I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone and their pets!

Pets: Katy and Penny my two very nervous rescue cats
Fun facts: I played the piano for ten years!
Heroes: my mom.

Hello, my name is Kat!! I’m the newest CSR at Wellesley, joining the team in February 2019, and I have a lot of customer service experience.

I started my working journey at Tim Hortons for 4 years, moved on to Home Depot for 2 years, then a Rogers Call Center for 2 years, and I have now been in the veterinary field since leaving Rogers (almost 5 years now).

I love what I do. I love knowing that even though I am not treating pets medically, I do play a part in their experience at the hospital, and I strive to make every visit as pleasant and efficient as possible.

Pets:
Sage (Bengal mix) and Goya (Siamese)

Fun Fact:
You get two; I am 1 of 7 children, and I used to sing in talent shows.

Heroes:
Hayley Williams of the band Paramore.

Hi, there I’m Samantha! I’m one of the Animal Care Ambassadors here!

I just joined the Wellesley Animal Hospital family at the end of 2019 and already cannot wait to see what this new decade has in store for us!

I’ve worked in the pet industry since my very first job at a petstore back in Montreal. I moved to Toronto to continue my education in the pursuit of working more with animals and people. I can remember growing up and never feeling like an only child because my mother always called our big tuxedoed Maine Coon cat named Clyde my brother.

I’ve always grown up with animals, whether they were rabbits, dogs, little birds and mice I would save from the street, and especially cats!

My true inspiration comes from a trip to Greece and seeing the many stray cats and dogs that live there, I hope to one day help in finding them all fur-ever homes!

When I am not at school or the clinic I’m at home watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer with my two cats, or annoying my boyfriend at parks and markets in search of more things I can collect!

Pets: A Torti cat named Buffy who only loves her mom (Me!) and the clumsy purr machine Angel who loves anyone and everyone!! (Waiting for the day I find my Spike)
Fun Facts: I am addicted to pickles
Heroes: My mom and Audrey Hepburn

Hello, my name is Johnathan, and I am an Animal Care Ambassador here at Wellesley Animal Hospital.

I have spent most of my life having both dogs and cats and I have had a love for animals since I was a young boy.

I would be the one socializing with the animal at a party! As a recent graduate of the Animal Care program at Durham college, I am starting to realize a passion I had had for a very long time.

I also hope to complete the RVT program at Seneca College in the new future. I am very honoured to start my new career with the Wellesley Animal Hospital.

Pets: Black Labrador Retriever named Cody and a Brown Newfoundland named Bailey
Fun Fact: I went to high school for musical theatre and dance!
Heroes: Gus Kenworthy, Brandon Stansell, Ben Platt.

Hello! My name is Emily. I grew up in Sydney, Australia, and have always had animals in my life, spending most weekends at horse stables and dog walking for neighbours.

For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to become a veterinarian. Currently, I am studying for a HonsBSc at the University of Toronto, double majoring in Animal Physiology and Bioethics.

I am super excited to have joined the Wellesley team and, to learn more about small animal veterinary medicine.

Pets: Bella (a hungry golden Lab)
Fun Facts: I am a varsity athlete (fencing & rowing) at the University of Toronto and have fenced up to a world championship level.

Hello, cool cats and dogs!

My name is Olivia and I currently work at Wellesley Animal Hospital as an Animal Care Attendant. I have only just started my work relationship with Wellesley, but it already is starting to feel like a second home. This is the second animal hospital that I have worked at but is by far my favourite one. Not only do the most cutest animals come through each day, but I enjoy that fun everyday comradery with each of my co-workers.

I am currently studying at Ryerson University for my Undergraduate Studies in English Literature. I am hoping to make use of my literary skills and apply them to the film industry one day soon.

During my free time, I explore the city with friends, take pictures, read and write and watch the scariest movies that I can find. I am looking forward to deepening the relationships with my colleagues at Wellesley and getting in as many cuddles from each animal as I can.

Pets: My sweetheart Rottweiler named Roxy. Roxy enjoys long sleeps on the floor and eating whatever she can find.
Fun Fact: I plan on studying for a semester abroad in Paris in the coming year.
Heroes: Robin Williams, Uber Eats and my best friend Devon.

Hello, my name is Daria!

I am one of the Animal Care Ambassadors here at Wellesley. I recently graduated from the Animal Care program with honours at Sheridan College.

I have always had a lifelong passion for animals. Growing up with a golden retriever named Kimi from the age of four and a cat named Kicza from the Humane Society, who stayed by my side for eighteen years. I am so honoured to work in an environment helping both animals and their pet parents.

Pets: Both saltwater and freshwater fish, two pac-man frogs, six axolotls, a northern blue tongue skink, and a golden doodle named Kajtek.
Fun Fact: My dream is to become a dog trainer.
My heroes: My mom and dad.

Hello! My name is Mari and I am the grooming and boutique manager at Wellesley Animal Hospital.

I have 12 years of experience as a professional dog groomer as well as a bachelor’s degree in Humanities from York University.

My mother is also a dog groomer and she’s taught me everything from dog behaviour to nailing the perfect Schnauzer cut from a young age. She’s also “dragged” me to various dog grooming conferences around Canada, the US, and Japan where it truly piqued my interest in grooming. Grooming is not only a passion of mine, but it’s therapy! I worked at our sister clinics for 5 years as their primary dog groomer and styling consultant. Now I have been graciously given the opportunity to manage the grooming and boutique at our brand new Wellesley location.

Though I have much to learn in the way of veterinary medicine and various aspects of the boutique, everyday is a new lesson—taught by my incredibly supportive peers and our amazing clients!

Pets: Although I’ve been surrounded by dogs my entire life, I’ve been “found” by my stray kitten Miu in the summer of 2018. Miu has taught me so much about felines and deepened my appreciation for them.
Fun Facts: I can play flute and the koto aka. Japanese Floor Harp at an intermediate level. I love to jam and make beats with my boyfriend when I do have the time. I also make realistic dog and cat sounds!
Heroes: My boyfriend Logan—he always saves the day and knows how to turn a frown upside down. And all of my music teachers that have taught me to embrace my creativity and passion for music… and everything else!

I came to Toronto in 2013 from Saitama, Japan. I’ve been working as a dog groomer for over 4 years. Dog Grooming was my dream job since childhood, and I’ve always felt a special connection with dogs—they’ve always been a part of my life.

In 2015 I decided to stay in Canada because of my marriage. After that, I challenged myself to make my dreams come true for my new life in Canada. I took up a dog grooming course and graduated in 2016. My work is very enjoyable, and the dogs that I groom are all so very cute! I love being able to transform your pet and enhance their natural looks and expressions. Moreover, I take pleasure in seeing their parents’ smiles. This is what makes me most proud about being a dog groomer.

I have a 2-year-old little Toy Poodle named “Vincent.” He’s also from Japan! I love him to bits, and he always helps me improve my grooming skills. He’s the best model dog I could ever ask for!