Meet The Staff
Dr. Alison Birken, DVM
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.
Dr. Naomi Cushner, DVM
Dr. Naomi Cushner earned her veterinary degree from the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine and her undergraduate degree from Stony Brook University. While at veterinary school, Dr. Cushner gained experience working with a wide variety of animals from sea turtles to exotic birds, and house pets of all kinds.
After graduating from veterinary school, Dr. Cushner worked in private practice until joining the Victoria Park Animal Hospital. Dr. Cushner brings extensive experience in surgery, dentistry, preventative care, and emergency medicine to our practice. She is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Florida Veterinary Medical Association.
In her spare time, Dr. Cushner enjoys travelling, spending time with her husband, two children, her two dogs Zoey and Eevee, and her two cats, Clyde and Turkey. Dr. Cushner knew as a child that she wanted to be a veterinarian and is passionate about providing the best care to pets and their families.
Dr. Santiago Forteza, DVM
Dr. Santiago Forteza is a South Florida native with a passion for small animal and exotic veterinary medicine. After obtaining his bachelors of science degree from Univeristy of Miami, Dr. Forteza continued his studies at St. Georges University in the tropical paradise of Grenada in the west indies.
Once completing his clinical rotations at Louisiana state university school of veterinary medicine, he worked at their Emergency and Anesthesia departments for another year and half.
After being away from home for nearly 6 years, Dr. Forteza returned to south Florida to work on all animals, from cats, dogs, chickens, goats, pigs etc. The only pre-requisite that he has in his patient selection is that they're able to fit through the door.
Amber, Hospital Administrator, Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) BS.
My name is Amber , I’ve been passionate about animals from a young age, growing up surrounded by all sorts of animals as my mother is a Veterinarian . This early exposure fueled my dedication to the field of Veterinary Medicine. Over the years , I’ve gained experience working in general practice, while also honing my skills in Emergency and Urgent Care. I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University Central Florida, alongside my certification as Veterinary Technician. I’m committed to providing exceptional care to animals while continuously expanding my knowledge and expertise.
I am pursuing a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager ( CVPM ) To further enhance my skills and expertise in managing in the Veterinary Field. I am dedicated to advancing both my clinical and leadership abilities to provide exceptional care and support to both animals and the team.
Sarah, Surgery Technician Supervisor
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!
Beth, Veterinary Technician Supervisor
Beth has been a Vet Tech at Victoria Park Animal Hospital for over a year and has previous experience working with hundreds of horses, as well as accumulating for her own small menagerie of various reptiles, rodents, and birds that she’s kept throughout the years. Graduating top of her class in 2008 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Illustration from the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, she went on to work as an artist in the video game industry for over 13 years. She loves painting, spending times with her amazing co-workers, and caring for her Siberian Husky and cats.
Blake, Veterinarian Technician & Sonographer
Blake is a dedicated and compassionate veterinary technician and sonographer with over 10 years of experience in providing exceptional care for animals. She joined VPAH in March of 2020. With a deep passion for animal health, Blake excels at performing diagnostic ultrasound procedures and supporting veterinary teams in both emergency and routine care. Her technical expertise and attention to detail ensure that pets receive the highest standard of care, whether it’s during a routine exam or a complex procedure. Committed to advancing her knowledge, Blake stays up-to-date with the latest advancements in veterinary diagnostics and sonography. In addition to being a Vet Tech and administering ultrasounds/ echocardiograms, she also built and runs the VPAH and Paw Spa websites.
Mike, Veterinarian Technician
My Name is Michael , I’ve been working in Veterinary Medicine for 7 years, beginning my career as a kennel technician. Over time, I’ve gained wealth of experience and knowledge, growing into various roles within the field, and I am passionate about providing quality care for animals.
Emma, Veterinary Technician
My name is Emma, I was born and raised in South Florida. I’ve been working as a Veterinary Technician for the past 5 years and prior to this I worked with various wildlife and horses. I have five cats and one crazy puppy at home. I am proud to say I have been accepted into the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, and will be started class in August! In my spare time I LOVE to read and you can often find Dr. Cushner and I talking about our latest book selection.
Sebastian, Client Coordinator & Veterinary Technician
My name is Sebastian, I’ve been in the Veterinary Field for a little over a year, fueled by a lifelong love for animals. Growing up, I spent a lot of time on my grandfather’s farm, where I developed a deep connection with animals and learned the importance of caring for them. It was there that I realized I wanted to dedicate my life to helping animals live a long happy and healthy life. My dream is to become a Veterinarian one day.
Earlene, Client Coordinator
My name is Earlene, I’ve been working in the Veterinary Field for over two years , with experience at Chewy as a client coordinator and general practice for another year. My passion for animals continues to grow, and I am constantly expanding my knowledge and skills. I am passionate about working with zoo animals in the near future.
Desiree, Kennel Technician/ Supporting Staff
My name is Desiree, I’ve been in the Veterinary Field for over 4 years. From a young age , I’ve developed a deep love and compassion for animals, always striving to help any animal I have
come across. At a young age, my efforts to rescue animals and to care for them along with continuing to grow at Victoria Park Animal Hospital.
Jessie, Kennel Technician
My name is Jessie, I am a native to South Florida my love for animals have led me to pursue the Veterinary Field. I have a background in Diagnostics along with a degree in Forensics, but I
prefer my love and passion for helping and caring for the animals.