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.

Lauren Novak

DVM
Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Lauren Novak earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, completing her clinical year at the Royal Veterinary College in London before graduating in 2017. Her time in London gave her a broad, international perspective on veterinary care that she still brings to her work today.

After graduation, Dr. Novak completed a one-year rotating internship at the ASPCA, where she gained hands-on experience across a wide range of medical and surgical cases. She then went into small animal practice, where she enjoys building lasting relationships with pets and their families. She has a special interest in dentistry and loves helping her patients keep their smiles healthy, since good dental care plays such an important role in a pet’s overall health and comfort.

Outside the clinic, Dr. Novak loves to bake, go jogging, and spend game nights with friends around a good board game.

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
Technical Manager

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

As Technical Manager, Veronica leads and supports the hospital’s technical team, mentoring staff and upholding high standards of patient care while keeping the client experience front and center. She knows how stressful it can be when a pet is sick, injured, or undergoing treatment, and she’s dedicated to making sure every family feels supported and informed along the way. Her approach is rooted in honesty and compassion, and she often reassures worried owners by telling them, “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 happy to answer questions and help pet owners make informed decisions so their pets receive the best care from start to finish.

Outside of work, Veronica is a true animal lover, she keeps a diverse reptile collection and shares her life with her beloved dog, Ruby. Veronica is passionate about continuing her veterinary education, with a particular interest in pain management, acupuncture, and physical therapy.

Kristina Bohl

LVT
Technical Manager

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

Hospital Administrator

Jordan Acarino brings more than 28 years of hands-on experience in veterinary medicine to their role as Hospital Administrator. Jordan began their career as a kennel assistant, building a strong foundation in animal care and team operations, and steadily progressed through various roles that gave them a deep understanding of both patient care and how a hospital team works best together. Jordan joined PPAH in 2014, and their dedication and leadership have made a lasting impact ever since.

In 2021, Jordan earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the College of Staten Island, strengthening their ability to teach, lead, and inspire. That background shapes their leadership philosophy: clear structure, strong performance, and investing in each team member’s growth are the keys to a thriving, collaborative workplace.

As Hospital Administrator, Jordan oversees key areas of hospital operations, including team leadership and mentoring, client service and communication, and maintaining the highest standards of patient care. Known for their calm presence and solution-focused approach, Jordan helps guide the team through even the most complex situations while keeping patient well-being and client trust at the center of everything they do.

Outside 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.

Amanda Beach

North Teams 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 28 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 four years, following 11 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. As Hospital Administrator, 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 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 SHRM. She 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.