Meet Our Veterinary Team

Meagan Driver (She/Her)

Office Manager

Prior to joining the Parkdale Animal Hospital team in 2016, Meagan graduated from the Veterinary Assistant program at Ashworth College while on maternity leave with her daughter, Finley. She also brings experience in grooming and pet first aid.

A lifelong dog lover, Meagan is the proud pet parent of Rooster, a 4-year-old Bloodhound, and enjoys hiking trails with him whenever possible.

Tejha (She/Her)

Client Care Specialist

Tejha joined the Parkdale team in 2021 and is currently pursuing an Honours Biology degree at Wilfrid Laurier University with hopes of becoming a veterinarian. She brings a diverse background, having worked in various roles within the veterinary field and retail pet stores.

Tejha shares her home with her cat, Cheese Pants, and has previously cared for various types of rodents. She is excited to continue gaining experience at Parkdale Animal Hospital and looks forward to meeting our clients and their pets.

Alysha (She/Her)

Client Care Specialist

Alysha, a dedicated member of the Parkdale team since 2023, brings a wealth of client service and a passion for animal care. With an undergraduate degree in Animal Biology and a background in volunteering at the Humane Society, Alysha’s commitment to our furry friends is clear. Her love for animals has shaped her career path from a young age, whether through horseback riding lessons or pet-sitting for friends and family.

As one of the welcoming faces at the clinic, Alysha looks forward to extending her warm hospitality to you and your beloved pets. She lives in Kitchener with her partner, Jake, and their dog, Penny. Alysha’s diverse pet history includes caring for dogs, cats, and even a snake. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, watching true crime documentaries, and exploring nature on hikes with Jake and Penny.

Alysha’s compassion and expertise reflect her genuine love for animals and their well-being, and she is excited to be part of your pet’s care team.

Bailie (She/Her)

Veterinary Assistant

Bailie has always had a passion for animals, having grown up surrounded by a variety of creatures, from birds to reptiles. After completing the Veterinary Assistant program in British Columbia, Bailie gained hands-on experience and a deep understanding of animal care and welfare.

Since starting her professional journey in 2018, Bailie has been dedicated to providing exceptional care and joined the Parkdale Animal Hospital team in 2023. She shares her life with Osiris, a special feline companion who holds a unique place in her heart.

Outside of work, Bailie enjoys rock climbing with her partner Matt, reading, playing video games, and taking peaceful trail walks to connect with nature. Her diverse interests complement her dedication to animal care, and she is committed to ensuring the well-being of every pet she encounters.

Bailie looks forward to working with you to provide the best care for your beloved pets.

Kat (She/Her)

RVT

Kat is a highly skilled and compassionate Registered Veterinary Technician who graduated from Ridgetown College in 2013. With a strong background in animal care, she has developed a special interest in anesthesia and nursing while ensuring the comfort of both clients and patients. Kat is experienced in all aspects of veterinary care, from routine procedures to complex anesthetic surgeries, working closely with veterinarians to provide the best possible care for every animal.

Outside of work, Kat enjoys exploring her creative side through arts and crafts, as well as indulging in her love for theatre, camping, hiking, and music. Spending time with loved ones, including her three cats and two small dogs, Gertie and Aeries, is a top priority. Kat has a special fondness for smaller dogs and is passionate about providing them with the best care.

With her natural communication skills and warm, friendly demeanour, Kat puts both animals and pet owners at ease. She is dedicated to building strong relationships with clients and educating them about preventative care and responsible pet ownership. Kat’s expertise, caring nature, and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable member of our veterinary team.

Jill (She/Her)

RVT

Jill originally joined the Parkdale Animal Hospital team back in 1997 as a high school co-op student. In 2002, she graduated from the University of Guelph with a Bachelor of Science degree and in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from McMaster University. After earning her nursing degree, Jill left Parkdale to work in pediatrics and obstetrics but soon realized she missed her animal patients and the Parkdale family, leading her back to the team.

Driven by her passion for the patients, Jill pursued further education and graduated from veterinary technician school in 2024. When she’s not at the clinic, Jill enjoys spending time with her children, husband, and their Goldendoodle, Oscar.

Taylor (She/Her)

RVT

Ever since she was a young girl, Taylor has had a passion for animals—whether aquatic, reptiles, rodents, mammals or any other companion animal- and she was captivated by them all. Her very first job was at PetCetera, where she gained hands-on experience working with animals while also developing her skills in customer service.

After years of working in customer service, Taylor decided to follow her dreams and applied to the Pre-Health and Science Program at Sheridan. In 2023, Taylor proudly graduated from the veterinary technician program and is excited to continue her journey in animal care.

Taylor shares her home with her two kitties, Moo and Tigger, and recently added a new puppy, Apollo, to the family.

Erika (She/Her)

RVT

Erika’s passion for caring for animals began at a young age, inspired by her family veterinarian, who would show her fascinating things under the microscope and explain every aspect of her pet’s exam. Erika graduated from the Veterinary Technician program at Algonquin College in 2006 and joined the Parkdale Animal Hospital team in June 2020.

Before arriving at Parkdale, Erika had the pleasure of working with exotic animals in Ottawa and gaining experience at a large 24-hour hospital in Hamilton. She has a particular passion for animal dental care and is committed to utilizing fear-free practices to make each patient’s visit as comfortable as possible.

Outside of work, Erika’s three children keep her busy, but when time allows, she enjoys baking, knitting, and playing music. She practices flute, violin, and piano and sneaks in as many cuddles as she can with her senior cat, Amy and her dog, Tinsel.

Justine (She/Her)

RVT

Justine has always had a deep love for animals, growing up surrounded by dogs, cats, horses, and cows. She joined the Parkdale Animal Hospital team in 2018, initially working as a Client Care Specialist and Veterinary Assistant before graduating from the Veterinary Technician program in 2021.

In her free time, Justine loves spending time up North at the cottage or enjoying outdoor activities with her dogs, Gunnar and Duck, and her cats, Oliver and Wallace.

Stephanie (She/Her)

Operations and Sustainability Manager

Meet Stephanie, our vibrant Operations and Sustainability Manager, who became part of the Parkdale family in the fall of 2020. A graduate with honours from Ridgetown College’s veterinary technician program in 2002, Stephanie brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her role. In October 2023, she transitioned into her full-time management position, ensuring the seamless operation of everything behind the scenes.

Stephanie’s passion for veterinary medicine is deeply rooted in enhancing the human-animal bond, and she takes pride in partnering with pet parents to create a united front for their pets’ healthcare needs. Her commitment to making every vet visit enjoyable for both you and your furry companions adds a warm, compassionate touch to her work.

Outside the office, Stephanie lives in Kitchener with her husband, daughter, three dogs, and three cats. In her spare time, she enjoys crafting and solving puzzles with her daughter, getting lost in a good book, tending to her garden, and always seeking new adventures and cherished memories for her family.

Dr. Devin Deschene (He/Him)

DVM, Veterinarian

Dr. Devin Deschene was born and raised in the small town of Dryden, in Northwestern Ontario. Surrounded by the northern boreal forest, his passion for animals blossomed at an early age. It was during a high school co-op program that he discovered his love for veterinary medicine, setting him on the path to becoming a veterinarian.

Dr. Deschene graduated from the University of Guelph in 2018 with a BSc in Animal Biology and graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2023. Eager to practice small animal general medicine, he was excited to join Parkdale Animal Hospital.

Dr. Deschene is enthusiastic about learning from his colleagues, clients, and patients each day. He lives with his girlfriend and Swifter, a sweet cat adopted right from our hospital. In his spare time, Dr. Deschene enjoys five-pin bowling, reading, nature photography, and hiking.

Dr. Justine Forbes (She/Her)

DVM, Veterinarian

Dr. Justine Forbes is a dedicated veterinarian who brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to our team. She completed her undergraduate degree at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver and graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2018. Known for her great sense of humor, Dr. Forbes creates a welcoming and friendly atmosphere for both pets and their owners.

Outside the clinic, Dr. Forbes channels her energy into training and competing in ultra-marathons. Her love for animals extends to her home, where she cares for two dogs, one cat, five rats, and a ball python. Her unique style is highlighted by her collection of cool socks, which she wears proudly to work.

Dr. Forbes is committed to delivering top-notch veterinary care and is deeply appreciated by her colleagues and clients alike. Her passion for animal health and well-being makes her an invaluable member of our team.

Dr. Bek Kendall (They/Them)

DVM, Veterinarian

Dr. Kendall graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2018 and worked as a locum in various small animal practices across the GTA before joining Parkdale Animal Hospital full-time in 2021. Before vet school, Dr. Kendall completed a Master’s degree in Zoo Conservation Biology in England and continues to have a strong interest in zoo and wildlife medicine, as well as conservation.

In their spare time, Dr. Kendall enjoys music, reading, watching movies and live theatre, hiking, and spending time with their dog Skylar and two cats, Rufus and Cleo.

Dr. Laura Ruggiero (She/Her)

DVM, Veterinarian

Dr. Ruggiero grew up in the countryside near Fenelon Falls, surrounded by a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, and chickens. She graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2013 and spent her first year working at a busy small animal emergency hospital. Dr. Ruggiero has a special interest in veterinary surgery and dermatology. She is currently increasing her hours as she returns from maternity leave.

In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, singing in a choir, and learning to play the ukulele. She shares her home with her husband and their two cats, Kuro and Nico.

Dr. Mary Lichti (She/Her)

DVM, Veterinarian

Dr. Lichti graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2003 and joined Parkdale Animal Hospital in 2010. Her favourite part of veterinary medicine is building strong relationships with both pets and their owners. She finds it incredibly rewarding to witness the development of the human-animal bond and is continually inspired by the profound impact animals have on people’s lives. This connection motivates her to provide the best possible care, both through preventative health measures and medically focused treatments when pets are ill.

At the end of the day, Dr. Lichti enjoys unwinding with her family, accompanied by a couple of purring cats and her 100 lb Lab. When not at the clinic, you can usually find her at the arena or ball diamond, cheering on her children’s sports teams.

Dr. Barbara Gartshore (She/Her)

DVM, Veterinarian

Dr. Gartshore’s passion for veterinary medicine began in her teenage years, fueled by her love for training and showing dogs. After graduating from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1982, she spent two years practicing in Toronto. Following her move to the Kitchener-Waterloo area with her husband, Dr. Gartshore worked part-time as a locum veterinarian for local animal hospitals while starting her family. In 1992, she became a valued member of the Parkdale Animal Hospital team.

Dr. Gartshore is deeply committed to the science of veterinary medicine, with a particular focus on surgery. She frequently attends continuing education seminars to ensure she brings the latest knowledge and best practices to our clients. Recently, she said goodbye to her beloved dog Woody, a playful Lab-Terrier mix, leaving her mischievous and lovable cat Hobbes reigning as the king of her household. Outside of work, Dr. Gartshore enjoys travelling, watching movies, and spending quality time with her family.

Dr. Jonathan Uyede (He/Him)

DVM, Veterinarian & Owner

Dr. Jonathan Uyede was primarily raised in Guelph, where he completed his entire education—from elementary school to university and veterinary college—all on the same street! His passion for veterinary medicine took root during his teenage years while working at a local clinic in Guelph. After graduating from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2006, Dr. Uyede gained extensive experience working in emergency clinics, referral hospitals and various general practice clinics across Ontario.

Although he enjoyed the fast-paced nature of emergency care, Dr. Uyede found himself longing for the opportunity to build lasting relationships with clients and their pets. This led him to transition into companion animal practice in the area and in September 2015, he realized his dream of owning his own practice, becoming the proud owner of Parkdale Animal Hospital.

In addition to running his practice, Dr. Uyede is currently pursuing an MBA to broaden his skills and knowledge. At home, he enjoys spending time with his wife and their two daughters, Luna, the Portuguese Water Dog, and Suki, the Bearded Dragon. His hobbies include downhill skiing, playing with his girls, travelling, and hiking with Luna.