Meet The Staff

 Dr. Alison Birken received her degree in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Florida. Following her graduation, she served an internship at the nationally renowned Florida Veterinary Specialists in Tampa, Florida, where she gained extensive experience in the emergency, routine and preventative treatment of a wide variety of small animals. Upon completion of her internship, she spent 3 years working in a well established general practice in Hollywood, Florida. Her expertise includes all aspects of small animal medicine and surgery.

Dr. Birken actively participates in continuing education seminars several times per year. She is a member in good standing of The American Veterinary Medical Association and The Florida Veterinary Medical Association.

“My passion for the care and wellbeing of animals began when I was a child. For as long as I can remember I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian. Throughout my entire career, I have always strived to take care of every pet as if it were my own. I can think of no better way to spend my day than bringing joy to animal lovers by returning their pets to good health,” said Dr. Birken.

My name is Denise and I have been working in the animal field for over 18 years. My passion and love for animals began as a child. When I was young, I would tell people one day I want to live on acres of land so that I can save the stray animals and give them a deserving home.

My experience began as a veterinary receptionist which progressed to a general manager for a veterinary hospital for 10 years. I met Dr. Birken while she was doing relief work for a veterinary hospital I was working at. From the moment I met her I could sense the compassion and love she has for animals. I was thrilled to learn she was opening her own clinic and there was an opportunity for me to work with her.

My hobbies include being in the outdoors, camping, and mudding. I am married, have five children, and am a proud grandmother to our 2 grand-kids Chloe and Cage, who I love to spend time with. My Granddaughter is my weekend buddy, we love to go to the movies together. I have five rescue dogs and a rescue cat with three legs. I enjoy finding loving homes for strays and am proud to say I have fostered and placed hundreds of animals in wonderful homes.

 Sarah is one of our veterinary technicians at VPAH and is our resident “Cat Lady”. She joined our practice in the summer of 2016 after moving from Maryland. She currently has 6 cats and a several rats who she dotes on daily. Sarah’s family has three large dogs back at home who she loves dearly. Before working here, Sarah helped run The Canine Cognition Lab at Hood College where she got her Bachelor’s degree. She’s also worked at a show dog kennel with Kerry Blue and other Terriers and for a cat rescue and done volunteer work with animal shelters. Here at Victoria Park we are so happy to have such caring “Cat Lady” who also loves dogs and all kinds of critters! 

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