Meet our team

Alice Gorlenko

DVM
Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Gorlenko’s passion for veterinary medicine was ignited during her undergraduate studies at The College of Staten Island, where she participated in research programs involving Staten Island’s bat population. Throughout her undergraduate career, she was an integral part of the team at PPAH, providing exceptional client and patient care as a veterinary technician.

Dr. Gorlenko has now returned to PPAH after completing her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at St. George’s University in 2023. Passionate about the care and well-being of all her patients, Dr. Gorlenko has a particular interest in dermatology, gastrointestinal abnormalities, and neurological disorders.

When not tending to the needs of her patients, she enjoys afternoon hikes with her 9-year-old Goldendoodle, Nala, traveling and baking.

Shannon McSwegan

Hospital Administrator

With over 13 years of experience in the veterinary field, Shannon McSwegan brings a deep passion for animal care and a proven record in practice management. A graduate of Rutgers University with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and a focus on pre-veterinary research, Shannon has worn many hats in animal hospitals—from veterinary assistant to client service representative management.

As Office Administrator, Shannon oversees staff coordination, client services, budgeting, marketing strategies, and workflow optimization. She also provides essential administrative support to Office Managers, ensuring that daily operations run smoothly and efficiently.

Shannon’s leadership style is people-first and detail-oriented, with a strong emphasis on cultivating a positive team culture and a mindset centered on growth and continuous improvement. She is an active member of the VHMA (Veterinary Hospital Managers Association), and regularly participates in leadership development programs.

Outside of work, Shannon enjoys gardening, reading, and hiking with her dog Beau. Her passion for both animals and people drives her commitment to delivering exceptional care and service in every aspect of her role.

Veronica Benanti

LVT
Surgical Coordinator

Veronica Benanti is a compassionate and skilled Licensed Veterinary Technician with nine years of experience, all of which have been spent at Pleasant Plains Animal Hospital (PPAH). With a Bachelor’s degree in Biopsychology and a Minor in Anthropology, as well as an Associate’s degree in Veterinary Technology, Veronica brings a unique blend of scientific knowledge and deep empathy to her role.

As the lead surgical nurse, Veronica manages a team of 2-3 professionals, prioritizing both patient care and the client experience. She understands how stressful it can be for pet owners when their animals are undergoing surgery, and she’s dedicated to ensuring they feel supported and informed every step of the way. Her approach to client care is rooted in honesty and compassion—she often reassures clients by saying, “It’s OK to be scared; you can borrow some of my not scaredness!” (borrowed from a labor and delivery nurse, but always effective). Veronica is always available to answer any questions or concerns, helping pet owners make informed decisions and ensuring their pets receive the best care from start to finish.

Outside of work, Veronica has a deep love for marine life and enjoys swimming in the summer. She dreams of one day swimming with manta rays and whale sharks. A true animal lover, she currently has a diverse reptile collection and shares her life with her beloved dog, Reese. Veronica is passionate about continuing her education in the veterinary field, with a particular interest in pain management, acupuncture, and physical therapy.

Kristina Bohl

LVT
Ultrasound Coordinator

Kristina Bohl is a Licensed Veterinary Technician with an Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology from Dallas College (2020) and officially earned her licensure in 2023. She is a Fear Free Certified Professional and trained in CPR through the RECOVER Initiative, ensuring she brings both compassion and critical care skills to every patient interaction.

Kristina began her career at PPAH in 2016 as a receptionist. Over the years, her dedication and passion for animal care led her through a journey of growth—from front desk management, where she interviewed, hired, and trained new staff, to joining the technical team and becoming an integral part of patient care operations.

With 9 years of hands-on experience in the veterinary field, Kristina plays a key role in daily appointments, handling everything from client communication and patient intake/discharge to developing treatment plan estimates and providing top-tier nursing care under veterinary supervision. Her ability to manage workflow and communicate clearly in fast-paced environments makes her a strong leader and dependable team member.

Kristina embraces both transformational and servant leadership styles—motivating and inspiring her team to grow, while also supporting them during challenging moments and prioritizing open communication. She values teaching and mentoring whenever the opportunity arises, always striving to improve both patient outcomes and team dynamics.

Outside of work, Kristina enjoys running and reading. She’s currently training for her second marathon this year and has already read 20 books in 2025 alone. At home, she shares her life with her beloved pit bull mix, Hydra, and two cats, Penelope and Mr. P—both adopted from PPAH. (Fun fact: Kristina wasn’t a cat person until working at PPAH changed her mind!)

Heather Lynn Delice

Office Manager

Heather Lynn Delice brings over 14 years of veterinary industry experience and a passion for people-focused leadership to her role as Office Manager at PPAH’s North Location. She joined the team in February 2023, bringing with her a strong foundation in team management, client care, and operational efficiency.

Heather’s professional journey began in the world of design—she studied Visual Communication and Graphic Design and co-owned a screen printing business from 2008 to 2020, where she handled administration, customer relations, and custom design work. She later earned her Office Automation Certification, equipping her with valuable administrative and organizational skills that continue to serve her in the veterinary field.

Her career in animal care started in 2011, initially as a part-time CSR during nights and weekends. Over time, she expanded her expertise through hands-on involvement with rescue organizations, managing communications, scheduling, records, and billing. Heather’s responsibilities evolved into roles that included inventory and purchasing, facilities management, and serving as a key support to both staff and medical leadership.

At PPAH, Heather specializes in staff development, workflow optimization, and creating a welcoming experience for both clients and their pets. She is also the team’s go-to expert for international travel forms, ensuring all documentation is accurate and stress-free for traveling pet families.

Heather leads with a communicative, growth-minded approach—believing in leading by example and inspiring others to strive for excellence.

Outside of work, she’s a proud Star Wars and Marvel enthusiast who loves drawing, reading, and traveling. She currently shares her home with two cats—Empanada, a British Shorthair, and Edgar, a Snowshoe mix—and hopes to welcome a dog into the family again soon.

Heather is a member of VHMA and SHRM, and is currently pursuing her CVOM certification with plans to achieve her CVPM designation in the future.

Amanda Paugh

Office Manager

Amanda Paugh has been a dedicated member of the PPAH team for over eight years, beginning her journey as a Client Service Representative and growing into her current role as Office Manager. While her professional experience is rooted entirely at PPAH, Amanda’s hands-on knowledge, leadership skills, and deep understanding of the clinic’s operations are second to none.

In her role, Amanda oversees client services, staff management, and inventory coordination, helping to keep the clinic running smoothly and efficiently. She’s known for her ability to juggle multiple responsibilities with grace and a genuine smile, always ready to step in wherever she’s needed.

Amanda leads with kindness, consistency, and a strong sense of humor—qualities that help foster a supportive, respectful, and high-performing team environment. She values open communication and believes that when staff feel supported and clients feel truly cared for, exceptional patient care follows naturally.

Outside the clinic, Amanda can usually be found with a book in hand, relaxing at the beach in LBI, or enjoying the magic of Disney. Her friends and family are her top priority, and she brings that same heart-centered focus to her work every day at PPAH.

Jordan Acarino

Technical Manager

Jordan Acarino is a seasoned professional in veterinary medicine, bringing over 25 years of hands-on experience to their role as Technical Manager. Their career began humbly as a kennel assistant, where they developed a strong foundation in animal care and team operations. Over the years, Jordan steadily progressed through various roles in the field, gaining a comprehensive understanding of both patient care and team dynamics. In 2014, they joined PPAH, where their dedication, expertise, and leadership have made a lasting impact.

In 2021, Jordan earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the College of Staten Island, further strengthening their ability to teach, lead, and inspire within the workplace. Their background in education supports their leadership philosophy: structure, performance, and the development of team members are essential to creating a thriving, collaborative work environment.

As Technical Manager, Jordan oversees key aspects of hospital operations, including team leadership and mentoring, client service and communication, and ensuring the highest standards of patient care. Known for their calm presence and solution-focused mindset, Jordan helps guide the team through complex cases while always keeping patient well-being and client trust at the forefront.

Beyond the hospital, Jordan enjoys time at home with Kona, a spirited chihuahua-pitbull mix who has mastered the art of fetch and keeps life entertaining. Jordan’s deep commitment to animals, team growth, and quality care continues to shape the culture and success of the PPAH team.

Amanda Beach

Technical Manager

Amanda Beach is a dedicated and passionate Technical Manager with nearly a decade of experience at PPAH. She began her journey with the hospital in August 2015, starting as a kennel assistant and steadily rising through the ranks to senior technician and now, Technical Manager. Her growth within the practice is a testament to her hard work, reliability, and deep-rooted commitment to patient and team care.

Amanda holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in American Sign Language, an educational foundation that has enriched her approach to communication, team leadership, and client interaction. She stepped into her current managerial role with a passion for mentorship and operational excellence, drawing on both her technical expertise and her people-centered mindset.

In her current role, Amanda oversees a wide range of responsibilities, including patient care, staff management, client communication, and equipment maintenance. Whether she’s troubleshooting a piece of medical equipment or guiding a new technician through a procedure, Amanda is always focused on elevating standards and ensuring a positive experience for both clients and staff.

Her leadership style is firmly rooted in a “people-first” philosophy. She is deeply committed to creating a supportive, collaborative environment where her team can grow in confidence and skill. Amanda prioritizes open communication, continuing education, and team satisfaction—all with the goal of fostering a thriving clinic culture. She is equally dedicated to ensuring that every client who walks through the door feels welcomed, respected, and well cared for.

Outside of work, Amanda enjoys reading and horseback riding. She shares her home with her beloved 12-year-old poodle mix, Bailey, who has been by her side through much of her veterinary journey.

Gretchen Kittel

Hospital Administrator

Gretchen is a seasoned veterinary professional and dedicated leader with over 25 years of experience in veterinary medicine. As Hospital Administrator at PPAH, Gretchen brings a unique blend of clinical expertise, operational knowledge, and people-first leadership to her role—one she has been thriving in for the past two years, following 12 years as the practice’s Technical Manager.

Gretchen’s academic journey began at Hunter College, where she studied Geography and Environmental Science, later advancing her education in Veterinary Medicine at Cedar Valley College. Her well-rounded academic background contributes to her systems-focused, solutions-driven approach to managing a dynamic hospital environment.

Since the opening of PPAH in 2011, Gretchen has played a foundational role in shaping the practice’s culture, growth, and operational excellence. Her veterinary career spans nearly every position in the animal hospital setting—from kennel technician and veterinary assistant to senior technician and technical manager. This firsthand experience across all levels of care gives her a comprehensive understanding of hospital operations and a deep empathy for every role on her team.

As Hospital Administrator, Gretchen oversees technical and DVM staff management, scheduling, clinic workflow, and operational leadership. She also manages the hospital’s AAHA Accreditation, ensuring the clinic meets and exceeds the highest standards in veterinary care. Her attention to detail, strategic thinking, and calm leadership style help maintain a workplace environment that is both efficient and uplifting.

Gretchen leads with a “culture-first” philosophy, believing that a strong, supportive team culture is the key to providing exceptional care. She is deeply invested in developing her team, mentoring staff at all levels, and fostering an environment of trust, collaboration, and continuous growth.

Outside of the hospital, Gretchen is an avid runner. When she’s not training, she finds peace and joy in her garden and cherishes time spent there with her son. Gretchen shares her home with her two beloved rescue dogs, Ernie and Oswald, who are constant reminders of the power of second chances.

Gretchen is a proud member of the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA) and continues to expand her leadership knowledge through professional development and industry collaboration.

Reem Wahba

DVM
Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Reem Wahba earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Egypt before successfully completing the rigorous ECFVG certification process in the United States, showcasing her commitment to high standards of care and resilience in her veterinary journey. With several years of veterinary experience, including both international practice and hands-on clinical work in the U.S., Dr. Wahba brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role.

Her professional interests include internal medicine, preventative care, and client education. She is actively working to enhance her surgical skills, with a particular focus on spay/neuter techniques, and is enthusiastic about expanding her knowledge in diagnostic imaging. Dr. Wahba is known for her compassionate approach to veterinary care, always ensuring clear communication and building trust with pet owners.

Bringing a warm, culturally sensitive perspective to every patient interaction, she strives to make both pets and their owners feel understood and supported. Outside of work, Dr. Wahba enjoys spending quality time with her husband and three children, exploring the great outdoors, experimenting with new recipes, and indulging in her passion for creating art.

Dr. Wahba is an active member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

Madlin Deaf

DVM
Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Madlin Deaf, originally from Egypt, has dedicated her career to advancing veterinary care with a global perspective. After graduating from The School of Veterinary Medicine at Cairo University in 2010, Dr. Deaf moved to the United States with her family. She began her journey in veterinary medicine in the U.S. as a veterinary technician at Pleasant Plains Animal Hospital (PPAH), all while working toward completing the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) certification program with the AVMA. She obtained her U.S. veterinary license from Mississippi State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, in 2018.

Before returning to PPAH in 2022 as an Associate Veterinarian, Dr. Deaf gained valuable experience working in a general practice in New Jersey.

Dr. Deaf’s professional interests include internal medicine, dermatology (with a special focus on allergy cases), and dentistry. She takes a thorough and compassionate approach to patient care, ensuring both animals and their owners feel informed and supported every step of the way.

Outside of work, Dr. Deaf enjoys cooking, gardening, and reading. Most importantly, she cherishes spending time with her children, keeping up with their activities and enjoying family life.

Jerrica Mastropasqua

DVM
Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Mastropasqua is a native of Staten Island. Prior to veterinary school, she worked as a veterinary assistant for Pleasant Plains Animal Hospital. During her training at PPAH, she became even more passionate about small animal medicine. Dr. Mastropasqua attended Fairleigh Dickinson University for her undergraduate degree and graduated with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry. She furthered her education at Mississippi State University, where she obtained her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Mastropasqua has a particular interest in studying animal behavior, dermatology, and surgery.

At home, she has a docile dog named Simba and a sassy cat named Abu; they always find a way to put a smile on her face! In her spare time, Dr. Mastropasqua enjoys spending time with family and friends.

Nicole Longo

DVM
Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Nicole Longo brings over two decades of experience, warmth, and dedication to her role as a veterinarian. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biology from St. John’s University, followed by her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in St. Kitts, West Indies in 2002. She spent her clinical year at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, further solidifying her veterinary skills and knowledge. She has been practicing veterinary medicine ever since.

Dr. Longo joined the Pleasant Plains Animal Hospital team in June 2013. With a professional focus on dermatology, Dr. Longo is especially passionate about helping pets feel comfortable in their own skin—literally and figuratively. She values the opportunity to build lasting relationships and says one of her favorite parts of the job is getting to know her clients and their pets on a personal level, creating trust and a true partnership in care.

At home, Dr. Longo is surrounded by a joyful menagerie that reflects her deep love of animals. She shares her life with her Labrador Retriever, Emma, who she lovingly describes as “the most perfect dog ever,” as well as two parakeets (Bubba and Flash), a Jenday Conure (Jack), a ferret (Cloud), and a tank full of fish. She especially cherishes spending time with her kids and Emma.

Dr. Longo is a proud member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and is committed to lifelong learning and compassionate care.

Pasquale Meleleo

DVM
Owner / Veterinarian

Dr. Pasquale Meleleo is a passionate and highly skilled veterinarian with a diverse and inspiring background. Born in Italy and raised in Staten Island, he moved to the U.S. at the age of seven. After graduating from St. Joseph by the Sea High School, Dr. Meleleo enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served as an electrical operator on a nuclear-powered submarine. His military service helped shape his discipline and dedication, qualities that would later define his veterinary career.

Following his service, Dr. Meleleo attended Wagner College before transferring to The College of Staten Island to pursue a rigorous biology program. During this time, he began volunteering at a local animal hospital, where he discovered his passion for veterinary medicine. He quickly advanced to the role of veterinary technician and further enhanced his experience through internships at The Staten Island Zoo and the Mid-Atlantic Equine Medical Center. Dr. Meleleo was accepted to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and graduated in 2008, soon after beginning his practice in small animal medicine.

His dedication to veterinary care and his community culminated in his dream of owning his own practice. Dr. Meleleo treats every patient with the same care and compassion as he would his own pets, understanding the deep bond between owners and their animals. He is particularly fond of his German Shorthaired Pointer named Walter, and his Spinone named Simona. They have become beloved members of the Pleasant Plains Animal Hospital team.

Dr. Meleleo is proud to continue doing what he loves every day—providing exceptional care to pets and their families.

Mohamed Elhadary

DVM
Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Mohamed Elhadary is a dedicated and compassionate veterinarian with a global background in veterinary medicine. He earned his Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine from Alexandria University in Egypt in 2009 and has since practiced in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United States, bringing over 14 years of diverse clinical experience to his role.

Dr. Elhadary joined Pleasant Plains Animal Hospital in 2025 as an Associate Veterinarian. He has a strong interest in internal medicine, dermatology, and diagnostic imaging, and is committed to evidence-based care and comprehensive client education. Known for his clear communication and gentle approach with both patients and pet owners, Dr. Elhadary strives to make each visit informative and stress-free.

Prior to joining PPAH, Dr. Elhadary served in multiple veterinary practices in New Jersey, where he further developed his skills in clinical medicine, surgery, and emergency care. His experience also includes years of practice in small animal medicine in Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Elhadary is fluent in English and Arabic and values cultural diversity in client care. Outside of the clinic, he enjoys spending time with his family, exploring continuing education opportunities, and staying current with advancements in veterinary science.

Nardine Nasr

DVM
Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Nardine Nasr is a compassionate and dedicated veterinarian, born into the world of veterinary medicine, with a deep commitment to both patient care and client education. After earning her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, she further honed her skills with a Certificate in Veterinary Business and Management from Cornell’s Center for Veterinary Business and Entrepreneurship. She is also up-to-date on the latest CPR guidelines, having completed both ALS and BLS certifications through the RECOVER initiative.

With over a year of professional veterinary experience, Dr. Nasr has completed an intensive portion of the VEG NERD program and gained hands-on experience in critical care, dentistry, surgery, endoscopy, and more. While she has exposure to exotics (though not a fan of treating them), her focus is on improving canine behavior and advancing veterinary business practices.

Dr. Nasr is passionate about educating her clients, believing that the more informed a pet owner is, the better decisions they can make for their pet’s health and well-being. Her approach is patient and detail-oriented, ensuring every pet parent understands the options available and feels confident in the choices they make. She loves working with pets of all temperaments and is especially considerate with nervous dogs and cats, going slow to keep them as comfortable as possible.

Outside of her veterinary work, Dr. Nasr enjoys hiking and exploring nature—chasing waterfalls is a particular favorite pastime. She’s also dedicated to fitness, practicing weight lifting, pickleball, and yoga. A passionate advocate for service dogs, she spends time raising, sitting, and volunteering with service dogs in training, particularly those who will go on to become guide dogs for those in need.

Dr. Nasr is a proud member of the AVMA, NYSVMS, VMANYC, and VECCS, and she continuously expands her knowledge with over 100 hours of continuing education in various veterinary disciplines.