Meet Our Team

Dr. Kristina Szabo, DVM

Primary Veterinarian & Practice Owner

I am very excited to be opening the Star Veterinary Hospital. As an independent owner, I am committed to providing the best medicine with the warmth of a family-run establishment. I live in the community and thoroughly enjoy the pets and people that I run into every day.

A little bit more about myself: I graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1999 and have worked as an associate in general practice and emergency medicine throughout all my career. I have two special needs rescue cats that are wonderful. Leo, a beautiful Bengal kitty, and Star, a small Siamese. Yes! I did name the clinic after her. (The story of the hospital name is on the Our Practice page.) Both cats have amazing talents and have taught me a lot.

I love to play sports in my spare time, especially tennis in the summer and skiing when the snow flies. I’m looking forward to meeting you and your little ones!

Dr. Tanya Katyal, DVM

Veterinarian

I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to pursue my dreams of becoming a vet in beautiful Dublin, Ireland, making lifelong memories and gaining a tremendous amount of experience along the way. I graduated with my DVM from University College Dublin in 2024 and I’m excited to finally be back home in Toronto to put my knowledge and skills to work.

Veterinary medicine has always been a huge passion of mine. Forming meaningful connections with pet parents and having the chance to make a real difference in the lives of your furry companions is what I value most about the profession.

Outside the clinic, I am a pet parent to two silly budgies, Pingu and Pongu. I enjoy spending my free time escaping reality and indulging in books as well as cultivating my creative side through oil painting, hand embroidery and various other crafty hobbies!

I can’t wait to meet you and your pets at SVH!

Kim

Practice Manager

Hi, I’m Kim, Star Veterinary Hospital’s part time office wizard!

When not busy winning over the hearts of donkeys at Primrose Donkey Sanctuary, Kim can be found ruling a tiny kingdom at home—consisting of two feisty chihuahuas who may or may not believe they run the world. A devoted animal lover and sanctuary volunteer, Kim thrives in the company of long-eared, four-legged friends, whether they bray, bark or meow!

Whether knee-deep in hay at the sanctuary or catering to the royal demands of her pint-sized pups, Kim embraces life with a heart full of compassion and a spirit as free as a donkey in an open pasture.

Jared

Registered Veterinary Technician

I’m a graduate of the Veterinary Technician program at Seneca college. I began working in general practice before expanding my skills, later working in emergency services and some rehabilitation work with primates. I developed a strong desire to help animals while during my co-op placement and a keen interest in wildlife and rehabilitation. My hobbies include taking my two pups Lilah and Riley to the park, riding my longboard and unicycle along the waterfront and local trails. My future goal is to work and travel with my computer science degree to provide care to animals less fortunate.

Fae

Client Care Specialist & Veterinary Technician

Hello everyone! My name is Fae and I’m your local highly caffeinated, pet obsessed, horror fan☺️

I have loved all animals my entire life (except spiders)! I always knew I wanted to work with animals in any capacity I could and I’m so fortunate to have such supportive and lovely patients❤️

Outside of the clinic, I spend a lot of time smothering my pets at home! Some of you may remember Rengar from early 2024, she is living her best life running around my house and sharing her Catit lick treats with my dog Molly! I also have a bearded dragon named Murdoch and a spoiled Beta named Zuko🐟

Other than my pets, I spend a lot of my time playing video games and talking/obsessing about music! I’ve played a lot of dead by daylight and Riot games, but have also been a simmer my entire life! My favourite band is called Wage War and they have my whole heart🧡 They have heavy hitters with heart and soul and the band themselves has always been so sweet.

Please stop by the clinic and let me pet your pets!!! (Also the scale-y ones) 🐊

Melanie

Client Care Specialist

Hi, I’m Melanie. I am a passionate and dedicated veterinary assistant with over 5 years experience in the animal industry and proud member of the Star team.

With a heart for all creatures, great and small, I have a deep understanding of animal behavior and a gentle touch when handling even the most skittish patients. I love the rewarding feeling of helping pets and their owners through both happy and challenging times. I am committed to creating a positive and welcoming environment for everyone who comes through our door.

Outside of work, I am a proud pet owner. Sharing my home with 2 cats, and a beloved dog who keeps me on my toes, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Ari

Client Care Specialist

Hi everyone! My name is Ari, and I’m a proud pet parent to 2 cats and 1 dog. I grew up around animals of all kinds, and now I’m following my passion to provide animals with the best care possible. I want to be your pets’ best friend!

On my spare time, I enjoy hanging out with my pets, reading, skateboarding, playing music, and video games.

Alex

Client Care Representative

Hi, I’m Alex, and I’ve always had a deep love for animals. Growing up with German Shepherds, I developed a strong bond with them, and now I give all my attention to the pets I meet. One of my all-time favorite games to play with dogs is tug of war—it’s a fun way to engage with them and build trust. I spend my time learning more about animal care by volunteering and shadowing veterinarians. My goal is to become a veterinarian and make a difference in the lives of animals and their owners.

Shawn

Kennel Assistant

Hi, I’m Shawn! I am a dedicated and compassionate part-time Kennel Assistant with a passion for helping both pets and their owners feel welcome and comfortable. My admiration for animals has inspired me to consider a career as a veterinarian, and I’m excited to be gaining hands-on experience in the field.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my own pets, playing video games, or biking. I also have a loyal dog of my own who keeps me entertained and livens up my day. I look forward to meeting you and your furry family members at the clinic!