Our Staff

• Dr. Jack H Kivlichan , B.V.M.&S.

  
  

  Dr. Kivlichan qualified at Edinburgh, Scotland Veterinary College in 1968. After several years working in pet practice in United Kingdom, Dr. Kivlichan joined our team at Avalon Animal Hospital on March 1, 1975, where he has worked ever since. Dr. Kivlichan especially enjoys surgery and has taken a particular interest in ophthalmology. He is a long-standing member of the Canadian Association of Veterinary Ophthalmologists. He has managed referral cases from other local practices in ophthalmology, orthopedics, urology, and general surgery. Dr. Kivlichan and his wife Peggy share their home with their cross terrier dog "Jenny". In his spare time he enjoys playing many instruments, such as the fiddle, guitar, and tin whistle, which we have had to painfully endure during his practicing sessions at the Avalon over our lunch break. Dr. Kivlichan also enjoys camping and casting a line in the solitude of a salmon river. On July 31, 2008 Dr. Kivlichan retired from active practice. We are hoping that he will return to his “family” when called upon for his wealth of knowledge and exceptional diagnostic and surgical skills, and of course to relay those many stories of how the “big one got away”. On August 1st our lunch hour fell silent as the sounds of Dr. Kivlichan strumming his guitar could no longer be heard throughout the Avalon. We love you and miss you Jacko.

  View

  ---

• Dr. Monique Brison , DVM

  
  

  Dr. Monique Brison graduated from the Atlantic Veterinary College in May of 1993. During her 15 years of practice she has had the opportunity to treat patients in many locations; from Manitoba to Labrador, all the way south to Aruba. Dr. Brison moved to Newfoundland in 1996, and joined our practice 5 years ago. She enjoys a close relationship with her patients and clients. Always eager to chat and willing to take the time to listen, her love for the profession is obvious. She is committed to staying current in her fields of interest by seeking out opportunities for continuing education. She enjoys difficult, often frustrating, dermatology cases, surgery and above all, those initial puppy and kitten visits. Dr. Brison is devoted to advancing animal welfare issues in our province, especially those involving the wellbeing of pets. She has served on the Newfoundland and Labrador SPCA Provincial Board for several years. Her dedication to the “underdog” has resulted in her adoption of many “down-and-out” animal companions. Very close to her heart are her 5 dogs: Hunny, Roo, Bailey, Casey and Eli; 3 cats: The Captain, Cara and Hannah; and 2 turtles: Ernie and Bert. The care of her menagerie would not be possible without the support of her partner Tom. Together, they share a quiet (but not bark-less) country home in South River. When she takes a break from caring for your pets and hers, you will likely find her out there tending to her flower beds and vegetable garden.

  View

  ---

• Dr. Patti Ryan , DVM

  
  

  Dr. Ryan joined us in 2004. After graduating from the Atlantic Veterinary College in 1995 she worked in Corner Brook and Stephenville at the Animal Health Center. She moved to the East Coast of the Island in 1996 to work at Topsail Road Vet Clinic. Dr. Ryan's interests include education of pet owners on proper puppy and kitten care, management of uroliths (bladdder stones) and dermatology. Also, her passion for cats is easily seen in her tender approach and, because of this, cats feel comfortable in her presence. She is the mother of two girls Ally and Melanie and they, along with her husband Michael, share their home with four furry felines, "Checkers", "Dan", "Zack" and “Cheddar”. She is truly a cat lover at heart. It is with our deepest sympathy that we acknowledge the recent passing of Dr. Ryan’s eldest cat "Jake". We got to know Jake very well during the final months of her life, as Dr. Ryan brought her to work with her everyday. Jake curled up on a bed “fit for a queen” next to the heater in a corner of our ECG room, where we could all watch over her as we went about our day and pause to love and admire her. Jake gave us so much more than we could give her during those last months; determination, strength, courage and so much love. We will miss you "Jakers" and will fondly remember you when we visit Dr. Ryan in her office, where your picture is proudly displayed.    Cat Kisses     Sandpaper kisses on a cheek or a chin that is the way for a day to begin     Sandpaper kisses a cuddle and a purr I have an alarm clock that’s covered in fur! ---Author Unknown

  View

   

  ---

• Dr. Beth Marshall , DVM

  
  

  A native of St. John’s, Dr. Beth Marshall has been practicing small animal medicine since graduating from the Atlantic Veterinary College with her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2001. She joined the Avalon Animal Hospital family in June 2007. Dr. Marshall is a lover of all species, but has a special place in her heart for cats and horses. Professionally, her interests include feline medicine with an emphasis on two challenging areas namely, gastrointestinal disease and problematic urination. Dr. Marshall is a member of the American Association of Feline Practitioners. She is also actively involved with the Newfoundland and Labrador Veterinary Medical Association and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association. Dr. Marshall and her husband, Bruce, enjoy the companionship of their cats Fergus, Otis, Percy, Tabitha, Olive, Molly and Georgie. During her lunch-hour and on weekends Dr. Marshall relaxes with the other “man” in her life - her horse, Winston. After work hours, she can be found at the barn, riding her horse, feeding stray cats and relaxing with family and friends.

  View

  ---

• Dr. Meghan Woodland , DVM

  
  

  Dr. Meghan Woodland is another Newfoundlander who has “flown back to the nest”. She grew up in St. John’s and received her undergraduate degree from MUN before moving to PEI to pursue her childhood dream of becoming a Veterinarian. In 2007, Dr. Meghan Woodland received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Atlantic Veterinary College where she achieved Dean’s Honor Roll for 2004, 2005 and 2006. After veterinary school, Dr. Woodland moved to Guelph to do an internship in large animal medicine/surgery at the Ontario Veterinary College. She completed an externship with us this past spring and we were so impressed with her compassion, sense of humour and the ease with which she melded with our staff, that we asked her to return and become a part of our Avalon family. Her area of interest is radiology and she has plans to pursue further studies in this field in the years to come. Dr. Woodland shares her home with her dogs “Rachael”, “Riley”, “Rosie” and “Roxie” and “Chelsea” her 14 year old cat that “rules the roost”. "Lise" her horse is in no doubt delighted to have her momma home to stay - now it is rub downs and carrot sticks every day – ah, that’s the life! Dr. Woodland is accepting new clients and would welcome the opportunity to become an integral part of your pet’s healthcare needs.

  View

  ---

• Dr. Graham Jones , B.Vet.Med.

  
  

  Dr. Jones qualified as a veterinarian at Royal Veterinary College, London, England, in 1964. After a short career in mixed practice in United Kingdom, and Sydney, Nova Scotia, he "put up his plate" in St. John's and saw his first patient October 7th 1965. Dr. Jones retired from active practice in December 2004, after working in St. John's for almost 40 years. He is married to Elizabeth, who was office manager at The Vet Centre for many years. Unfortunately, the damp climate of St. John's is not good for Elizabeth's arthritis, and so they now live in Calgary, Alberta. The Internet and other modern communications allow Dr. Jones to maintain a supervisory position over the excellent staff members who are resident in St. John's.

  View

  ---

• Denise Ferry

  
  

  Denise has been a staff member since 1968. She is our office manager and is in charge of receivables and payables. She also meets with representatives from veterinary pharmaceutical companies and serves as a conduit for information to the doctors. Because she's "been here forever", Denise can fill in for any staff member as needed. Diabetes mellitus is a common endocrine disorder affecting canine and feline patients. Denise is our diabetic technician, and at lunchtime nearly every day of the week you'll find her attending to our diabetic outpatients, she tests their blood glucose level, adjusts their insulin dose and educates the patient's family on nutrition and homecare. Denise's most important duty at our hospital is to be with you and your pet during the last minutes of their life in a painless and respectful manner. Her heartfelt words will hopefully sooth your aching soul, she knows how important your pet is to you and considers it a privilege to be with both of you through the end. Denise has owned English Bulldogs all her life. Her most recent Bulldog "Quinn" passed away on April 19, 2006. She died in her sleep of old age surrounded by love. Quinn spent every weekday of her eleven years alongside us in our office, asleep under the computer desk, sitting on files or begging for food. We will never ever forget her or the joy and laughs that she brought to each and every one of us everyday. We will always love you Quinn. To all of our devoted clients who threw her a treat and called her "beautiful", we thank-you for loving her too.

  View

  ---

• Debbie Severs

  
  

  Debbie joined us at a very early age in 1973. Apart from a spell with her husband in Calgary, she has been with us ever since. Debbie is our hospital administrator and has a Business Administration certificate from MUN. Debbie is our organizer; her duties include identifying opportunities for improved efficiency, scheduling, motivating and training staff and implementing protocols. But you won't find her hiding behind a desk in a back room. Her desk is front and centre in the reception area, answering your phone calls and "being there" for you and our staff. Her passion is client education and preventive medicine. Debbie lives close by with her husband Richard. Their spitfire cat "Truffles" who was adopted at the age of one from the Calgary S.P.C.A., has passed on at the age of twenty. Unfortunately last year they also experienced the passing of "Spencer", their devoted twelve-year-old German Shepherd, followed shortly by their ten-year-old German Shepherd "Darby" who fought a three-month battle with cancer. Time passed and after many tears were shed and memories and stories shared, it was time when four paws had to be heard again in the Severs home, so along came "Jack", a mischevious black Standard Poodle who you'll meet any morning while visiting us at The Avalon, if he doesn't think you saw him on the way into clinic - he'll make sure you will see him on the way out.

  View

  ---

• Lisa McDonald

  
  

  Lisa began life as a farmer's daughter and has always worked with all types of domestic animals. Her singing (even Christmas tunes in July), laughing and smiles help to create a light atmosphere. Lisa graduated from the Veterinary Assistant Program at Lawrence College in 2000 and has been with us ever since. Lisa is currently working towards the Animal Health Technician designation. She is Dr. Kivlichan's assistant and also assists the other doctor's when called upon. Lisa is our head assistant, her job is to also assist the hospital administrator in training, monitoring and motivating the technical staff. She maintains the diagnostic equipment and quality control procedures for the hosptial. Lisa has completed the Hill's Veterinary Nutritional Advocacy Program and Pet Weight Loss Management and most recently a course in Basic Principles of Urinalysis. She will be happy to help you with your pet's weight concerns and nutritional needs. She is dedicated, she is fun and her love for animals is clear. Lisa has in her home three mixed breed dogs "Jessie", "Beau" and "Max", a cat named "Taylor" and a barn full of dairy cows too many to name.

  View

  ---

• Natalie MacDonald

  
  

  Natalie graduated from the Veterinary Assistant Program at Lawrence College in 2004. She did her work-term placement with us that summer and has been with us ever since.           Three years of assisting Dr. Brison in surgery has gained Natalie the respect of all our surgeons and is shown in the number of requests she receives to take lead as surgical nurse. Natalie also nurses our critical-care patients and keeps families updated on their progress.           Natalie has completed many continuing education courses and is presently enrolled in a hematology course. She is also our OH&S representative and takes the well being of our staff very seriously. Thank-you for looking after us Nat. Natalie also has a special place in her heart for cancer research.           Natalie is a new bride!!! She married Matthew MacDonald on August 25, 2007. Her work family was there to witness the happy occasion and we welcome Matthew into our herd. Natalie and Matthew share their love with a Yorkshire Terrier "Xena", a sweet Beagle/Shepherd Cross "Jamie" and Maurice and Boo the meowing furball's.

  View

  ---

• Jen Bruce

  
  

  Jen is one of those people who you seem to have been working with forever, when it's been only 3 months. She is a sponge for knowledge and has already taken 8 continuing education courses since joining us and is pursuing another one as I write. Jen is Dr. Brison's surgical assistant and also assists Dr. Kivlichan and Dr. Ryan during clinic.       Pocket pets are Jen's passion, she can never have enough. She is also looking to adopt a kitten - she's in the right place for that!       Welcome Jen! You've got a lot to learn, but with your enthusiam for knowledge, it'll be you who'll be teaching  us soon.

  View

  ---

• Jessica Delaney

  
  

  Jessica just celebrated her first anniversary with the Avalon team. She graduated from the Academy Canada Veterinary Assistant/Receptionist program in 2007. Jessica started her animal care career as a volunteer at another hospital in the city, then when it was time for her work-term, she chose our hospital in which to gather her much needed hands-on experience. She quickly became an indispensable part of our patient care team and in no time was promoted to serve as Dr. Marshall's surgical assistant.          Jessica's focus this summer will be on advanced patient care, such as pre-surgical examinations, drawing blood samples and placing i/v catheters. During this past year Jessica has completed many continuing education courses such as “Principles of Anesthesia, Radiology and Urinalysis”. Jessica was a vital participant this past May when Dr’s Runyon and Bailey from the Atlantic Veterinary College visited our hospital to perform specialized surgeries on our patients, as well as on patients from around the province. We can’t wait to show off her new found skills to the surgeons when they return in September. Her enthusiasm, smiling face and warm spirit are a perfect combination for a lifetime career in the animal care field. It is truly a pleasure to work with Jessie everyday. During the week Jessica lives in St. John’s with her pets “Harley” a mixed breed dog and her two cats “Lucy” and “Omar”. On the weekends she packs them all aboard her car and takes them home around “The Bay” where they get to enjoy country life with their brothers “Nick” a 14 year old Shih Tzu and “Jack” the crazy Setter and their sweet sisters “Amber”, “Lacey” and “Abby”, all beagles. There are also 2 cats, “Zoe” and “Ella”. Wow Jessie, now that’s a houseful of love.

  View

  ---

• Alyssa Janes

  
  

  In the short year since Ally joined us as animal care attendant she has brought about many positive changes and protocols for quality control to our hospital. Her attention to detail, her enthusiam and hard work has gained her a promotion to reception where she'll pass on her newly acquired knowledge to our patients caregivers. Ally will also crosstrain as an assistant to the doctor's and nurses.        Ally has three cats, a boy named “Sylvester” and two girls, “Morgan” and “Spencer”. She is also the proud momma of "Susie" the ferret.         As receptionist, Ally will receive your telephone inquires and will be there at the front counter when you check-in for an appointment to see the doctor. She will also serve you when you come in to stock up on supplies.      We appreciate your patience as Ally is learning her new duties.

  View

  ---

• Shelley Noel

  
  

  Shelley graduated from MUN in 2004 with a Science Degree and from Lawrence College in 2005 with a Veterinary Assistant/Receptionist diploma. She joined the Avalon team October of 2005 after completing the work term phase of the Assistant/Receptionist program at the City Pound. After working in many different areas of the hospital, starting out as Dr. Kivlichan’s surgical assistant and then moving on to be Dr. Marshall’s surgical and clinical assistant, she decided to make reception her permanent home. Shelley is our head receptionist. She is your first point of contact when you phone to make an appointment. She checks your pet’s file before you arrive to make certain all vaccinations and parasite preventions are up to date, refills your prescription order and is our “expert” when it comes to finding the best solution to solving your flea problems. Shelley’s assistance is invaluable to our hospital administrator, completing Debbie’s long list of daily projects, contributing to new ideas and hospital protocols, and bringing them to completion, enabling Debbie to concentrate on training new staff members and to take a vacation every now and then. Shelley is a new bride!!! She married Matthew Noel on June 21, 2008. Her work family welcomes Matthew into our pack. Shelley and Matthew share their love with two mischievous cats, a girl adopted from the city pound named Gypsy and a boy adopted from the S.P.C.A. named Clous.

  View

  ---

• Meghan Reardon

  
  

  Our receptionist, Meghan, will be one of the first people to greet you when you walk in the door at Avalon Animal Hospital. Megs' job is a very demanding one. She is the first contact for many people who enter the clinic with questions, requests or emergencies. She has to be able to deal with people and animals directly as they enter. Often times, many people are in need of her attention all at the same time. Megs does the utmost to make sure that everyone gets the attention they require as promptly as possible Megs has no formal training in the animal healthcare field, it was her interests in science and the health care of companion animals that led her to our doorstep. After three years of studies at MUN, she decided it was time to take a break to pursue other interests. While we are grateful that Megs has chosen us as her “other interests”, Avalon Animal Hospital strongly believes that “education is the key to success” and we will encourage and support her in order for her to complete her Bachelor of Arts degree. This is Megs first time working specifically with animals, but she has quickly found working in a veterinary hospital to be rewarding and fun! Majoring in psychology at MUN has piqued her interest in behavioural biology in animals. Working at the front desk, Megs has the opportunity to educate pet owners and uses her broad base of knowledge in providing post adoption support. Megs offers our clients and patients compassion only shared by a true animal lover. Megs love of fog and the scent of windy salt air beckoned her to move from the west end of the city to the beautiful east end. She left behind to bask in the sunshine of the west end, her dogs; “Max” and “Jack” and her cat “Simon”. Megs just recently adopted a new kitten “Abigail” to join her in her new home and is looking for another to keep her and “Abigail” company.

  View

  ---

• Della Marie Lewis

  
  

  Della Marie is a class-mate of Tara’s in the Veterinary Assistant/Receptionist program at Academy Canada and is in the work-term segment of the program. Della Marie’s training at the Avalon will begin in reception where she will work her way through the 4 Reception levels with our “phase training program”. Working in reception, Della Marie will gain knowledge in organization, time management, medical terminology, pharmacology, nutrition, client interaction, parasite, vaccination and surgical protocols. Later, she will have the opportunity to become a personal assistant to one of our veterinarians, where she will take on the dual roles of “clinical receptionist” and “circulating assistant” in pre-op and post-op patient care. Later still, she will assist our veterinarians with patient monitoring and surgical procedures, as well as the administration of patient treatment plans, as prescribed by our veterinarians. Della Marie’s goal is to become qualified as a Veterinary Technician. Della Marie grew up in an “old age home”. Her mother, and before that her grandmother, cared for their “extended” family from their personal care home in beautiful St. Mary’s Bay. On weekends in spring and early summer, Della Marie’s drive back home takes her along the coastline where she has the amazing experience of spotting humpback and minke whales feeding and congregating near the shore on their journey to the Arctic. On these weekend visits home she gives her mom a temporary break from her difficult, yet rewarding vocation. Like her mom and her grandmother, Della Marie has a natural compassionate loving nature and we welcome her to our team, where we hope she feels as fulfilled in her chosen career as her foremothers have in theirs. In St. John’s Della Marie lives with her canine companion “Charlie” whom she takes “everywhere” with her and “Toby” who stays at home in St. Mary’s Bay to look after the family.

  View

  ---

• Tara Wilson

  
  

  Tara calls British Columbia “home”, however at the present time “home” is here in St. John’s where she lives with her uncle, while studying at Academy Canada in the Assistant/Receptionist program. Tara will be with us at The Avalon until October while completing the work-term segment of the Assistant/Receptionist program, a stepping stone on her journey to becoming either a Veterinarian or an R.C.M.P. officer with the Canine Unit. Her main duties will be hospital maintenance and patient care under the watchful eye of Ally and Jessie. While working in this area of our hospital she will be given the opportunity to observe the assistants and veterinarians as they go about their day attending to our patients needs. Tara left behind in British Columbia 3 mixed breed rescue dogs “Brandi”, “Shelbi” and “Mindy”, as well as her cats “Soot”, “Rocky” and “Tia” and a hamster named “Budskie” all of whom she misses dearly. We wish Tara good-luck with her work-term and are optimistic that she will discover her calling while working alongside our patient healthcare team here at the Avalon.

  View

  ---

• Ashton Dean

  
  

  ---

• Natasha Hillier

  
  

  ---