I have been a small animal veterinary practitioner now for over 30 years. I pursued my veterinary education at Ross School of Veterinary Medicine at St Kitts in the British West Indies and matriculated in 1989. Post-graduation, I left my home state of Maryland and took on my first 5 years of development and training at a multiple hospital referral and emergency facility here in Connecticut where I had extensive training and developed experience in multiple disciplines including internal medicine, surgery, oncology, ultrasound and endoscopy. In 1995 the opportunity came my way to practice in my new hometown of Burlington where I could be the practice leader and design my own veterinary practice culture. I purchased the facility from the former owners in 1999. In 2013-14 we remodeled the facility to accommodate my new associate Dr. Trevino and provide a physical plant that would not only be state of the art in capability but also facilitate our entire team in providing the best in advanced general veterinary surgery and medicine.

Professionally, I have pursued formal continuing education in multiple aspects of veterinary internal medicine and surgery with particular interests in oncology, ultrasound diagnostics, soft tissue surgery, allergy medicine and dermatology as well as critical care and pain management.

When outside the Burlington Veterinary Center I find my favorite pursuits are spending time with my two young men Nick and Ben, my beloved creatures Abby the dog and Lucy, our intuitive and albeit a bit nuts, kitty.
My recreational pursuits include playing guitar, golfing, bicycling, swimming, yoga, mindfulness (where would I be without it?), motorcycling, cooking and landscaping as well as taking on do it yourself projects as they present themselves. I also enjoy cooking, traveling (I’m new to RV’ing), taking in a good movie, watching professional sports and seeing live music.

It was suggested as I put together this bio that I inject a personal story, but jeez, any client here at the BVC can attest, you get enough of those from me just being a client here.

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly I wish to mention that each and every day I am humbled by the efforts and devotion of my entire team here. We all share in the vision of providing and evolving the best care to our patients and their 2-legged owners. It is impossible to express the depth of gratitude for all the blessings, the good fortune, the wonderful client, team member and patient relationships that have come my way. This is a remarkable profession, this veterinary medicine, that I humbly aspire to be a worthy and honorable contributor.

I joined Burlington Veterinary Center in 2013 as an associate veterinarian. I graduated from Cornell’s College of Veterinary Medicine earlier that spring in 2013. This position served as a reason to move from my roots in New York State to Connecticut. Since moving, I have married my husband Mike and we had our son, Anthony.  In a few weeks I look forward to adding his little sister to this mix. We proudly share our home with our dog and bearded dragon, Cairo and Spiga.

Since starting at the Burlington Veterinary Center my interests have evolved a bit and I have pursued continuing education in eastern medicine, specifically acupuncture, as well as ultrasound. I have developed greater interest in internal medicine over the past several years and look forward to growing this knowledge for years to come.  In addition, the furry companions I get to cuddle every day I truly do enjoy sharing laughs with the humans that I bond within this practice, both my clients and coworkers.

When I am not chasing a toddler around the house or at work I enjoy playing sports, working out, and enjoying quality time with my family.

From a very young age, I have always been passionate about the care of loving, sweet animals we share our lives with. I grew up with a house full of cats, dogs, as well small creatures, and reptiles; this sparked my interest in how to help them have their best, healthiest life. In 2014, I began working at a different clinic, where I gained a great deal skill through on-the-job training. From there, while still working at the clinic, I began to volunteer with the Humane Society and other small animal care organizations. I remain passionate about contributing to the less fortunate, and I am always looking for a way to donate my time to those in need. One of the easiest ways I have been able to help those pets in need is by fostering. I first fostered pets in 2015, and through that process my dog Pupalupagus (Gus) came to make our home his own. Gus joined us as a 2-month-old American Staffordshire terrier with a broken elbow from an abuse case and thankfully has made a full recovery.

Though, Gus is no stranger to the vet office as he deals with combating food allergies, and after many hypoallergenic foods and novel proteins we were able to find the Purina Elemental diet works best for him. Today, his paws, skin, and digestive tract have never been better! Looking to expand my skillset and continue learning, I joined the Burlington Veterinary Center team in 2018. I started at BVC as a Veterinary Technician and in just over a year worked my way to Head Technician, a position in which I strive to help improve the team dynamic every day, which has made the transition to practice manager seamless. While I am constantly learning from the best and brightest doctors, I also continue my educational journey toward becoming a CVPM. When not at work, I like to spend time with my family: my husband Garrett, and my sons Hayden and Patrick and daughter Adelaide. We enjoy cooking together and adventuring around New England. Gus has a partner in crime too; we also share our home with our little Pit-bull mix girl named Mini. Of course our house would not be complete without our loving cats, Nibbler, Minx and Larry too. When the weather is nice I enjoy taking the dogs for a nice long hike, or to the river for a swim. Summertime is my favorite, as it lets me take my Jeep and my dogs for long rides and off-roading.

My name is Rebecca Putnoki but at the Burlington Veterinary Center you will know me as Becky, or that girl that always asks if it is alright to take pictures of your pet! I am currently a Veterinary Technician at BVC. You may speak with me when you first call our office, you may meet me as you first come into the office, or you may have me assisting with your pet’s needs, but also all of your needs, during his/her appointment. I am a Certified Veterinary Assistant, by Animal Behavior College. I have also completed my first semester of Penn Foster’s Veterinary Technician Program. I’ve had a passion for animals since I was a young girl, growing up with my spunky Grandmother on her small town farm, loving cats and dogs as well as raising cows, pigs, sheep, goats, rabbits, chickens, and ducks. My strong love for animals shows in my position at BVC, as I am always striving to ensure every client can feel and see the love and care I share with them for their pet. Outside of the Burlington Veterinary Center life, you will mostly find me sharing my days with my amazing, beautiful, smart, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd mix named Blaze in the outdoors. We enjoy going to our secret spots around the Farmington River and he’s that dog pulling around an over-sized stick (basically a tree), or simply cooling off in the river. My two fluffy cat’s named Slor and Baby also share my heart.

Hi! My name is Gina Abarno. I started my journey at the Burlington Veterinary Center in 2006. My husband and I moved around quite a bit while he was in the air force and we decided to settle down in Connecticut. I found myself looking for a new job and Dr. Esherick gave me a chance even though I had no prior veterinary experience. I don’t believe the day I walked through the door him or I would have imagined that we would be still be working together on his dream and building the amazing practice we have today.

I earned my bachelors degree in fine arts at Rutgers University. I studied hard and was part of the University dance team. I always had a passion for the arts and being creative. After college I worked in finance and worked my way from a phone receptionist to an account manager for a large lending company.

When we moved to CT, I had an opportunity to again work in finance but I went on this crazy interview at a veterinary hospital and I followed my heart in my decision. I have always wanted to work with animals and my passion has always been caring for animals. I decided to completely change my professional direction and I haven’t looked back since. Dr. Esherick took a chance on me as a receptionist and I have learned many aspects of the hospital under his guidance. I went back to school and received my certification in Veterinary Practice Management.

My love in my life is my family. I have a wonderful husband Anthony and we have two boys, Dominick and Anthony. I have become an enthusiastic sports mom and I live for watching them play football, basketball and baseball. We also share our home with our two rescue dogs, Avery who is a very rambunctious girl who has a thirst for chasing squirrels and Piggy who has no idea what is going on in life but is the happiest girl in the world! We also have our little boy Decker who is the most loveable cat but wants no part of the dogs. Under the care of Dr. Esherick and Dr. Trevino they are healthy and happy and live very fulfilling lives. I would not trust my pets with anyone else! I enjoy spending time with my parents, brother and sister and my husband’s parents, brother and sister and ALL my wonderful nieces and nephews, Cassandra, Autumn, Victoria, Joseph, Chase and Meadow. We have a big family and they are the most important people in my life. As for myself, I love shopping and cooking. I feel extraordinarily blessed in this life that I not only get to love what I do every single day but I get to work with the most incredible people. I learn from them every day, we laugh every day and together we get to make a difference in people’s lives by helping them with their pets. It is truly a remarkable place to spend my days.

I am Jennifer Warner, I have been a technician for the last 22 years. I am currently working as one of the technicians here as well as helping behind the scenes! I obtained my certification in 2006 thanks to Dr. Esherick and other technicians that I had worked with at that time. I have 10 years of experience in emergency medicine before coming back to general practice recently. I absolutely love taking care of your fur babies when they are in need. I am a kind, gentle old soul, and my coworkers notice that in me as well.

Outside the office I am a wife and mother of two beautiful young women. We all are involved in many sport activities and enjoy spending time together doing anything as a family. My fur babies are Chipper our dog. Sassy, BooBoo, Kenmore, our cats and finally Kaytee and Shadow our ferrets.

Hey there, my name is Lorrie. I’ve been working at the Burlington Veterinary Center for six years. I started out in a kennel position and have come a long way. I worked hard and now my position is Hospital Assistant. I am in charge of making sure the hospital runs smoothly. I help these lovely ladies and awesome doctors have what they need to get through a thorough exam, surgeries, x-ray and ultrasounds. I take a lot of pride in my life both inside and outside of my work environment. I believe that honesty, empathy, follow-through and being true to your word are some of my most important characteristics. I use these every day when working with such great clients.  I have come a long way and never imagined I could complete the tasks that I do in my work environment. I have received a certificate in a fear free practicing which we utilize every day. I also received a certification in x-ray positioning which I am very excited to keep practicing and evolving in. Along with that, One of my most professional accomplishments was when I started working as a companion for the elderly 16 years ago. I then received a great opportunity here at the Burlington Veterinary Center and become an important team member. I get to spend a lot of time with lots of different animals with very different personalities. I have two cats and two dogs at home one of which is my grand pup. They all receive pet care at the BVC, I have complete faith in the care that my fur babies get. I spend lots of time outside with my grand pup, Micca and my pup Gilly. We all love nature walks and just spending time throwing the ball or just taking a ride. I am looking forward to continuing to learn new things and work with such a great team.

My name is Ashley Hughes and I’m a certified veterinary technician. I always knew I wanted to work with animals and do what I could to help them. I went to UCONN Storrs to major in Animal Science and after graduating from there I began working at Burlington Vet Center. Throughout the years, I’ve gained experience working in all areas of the hospital. Over the past couple years, I recently earned another associates degree which enable me to take the national boards exam and become a certified vet tech. Working in the field can be challenging but even on the harder days it gives me a lot of meaning and personal satisfaction in my own life. I love helping to be there for pets and bonding with them and clients. I love being part of a team that’s also like another family and working with wonderful people who help me grow personally and professionally. While one day I would love to have a dog, it’s not the right time for me right now. I do have a (nearly) toothless cat who was feral when I first adopted her. She had a rough start to life and was skittish and fearful of people, along with a horrible case of stomatitis which required her to have most of her teeth removed. Since then, she’s become a such sweet and loving cat, and a bit quirky. Outside of work and spending time with family and friends, I love to be outside. Running is my second passion and on my days off I’m either going for a run or a hike.

I always knew growing up that I would end up working with animals one day, with raising and showing Newfoundlands with my grandfather being a major contribution to that. He taught me to love animals like family, and was a huge encouragement to my childhood dreams of growing up to work in veterinary care. This took me to my high schools FFA program, where I took classes such as Veterinary Science, Companion Animal Science, and Equine Science, as well as gaining some of my favorite memories with some of my favorite people. Today I am lucky enough to say that I’m taking steps further into that dream by working at the BVC! Currently I am a Veterinary Assistant, and help/learn with the technicians and doctors in our team. I help them in appointments with any assistance they may need, as well as in the other areas of the hospital. Outside of life at BVC, I’m currently taking classes at Northwestern Connecticut Community College to get my veterinary technician certification, and afterwards I plan on transferring to a four year college to finish a pre veterinary medicine degree, followed by vet school! An accomplishment that I recently received at NCCC is joining Phi Theta Kappa, the honors society for two year colleges. Apart from work and school, I live with my two blue Great Danes Ellie and Maisy, who are sources of endless entertainment. As a kid my dogs were my first ever best friends, and I feel so lucky that I have the opportunity to help care for other people’s best friends as well!

Hey there! My name is Jordan Maloney and I have been lucky enough to be working here, at the Burlington Veterinary Center, since September 2020 as a Technician Assistant. Although I am new to working in a Veterinary setting, I have a 10 year background in the medical field, specifically pharmacy and home health care. I’m very excited to bring my extensive training and skills to the office here, to serve my favorite beings.. ANIMALS! I thrive in a productive, family-friendly environment, which of course includes making great connections with all of our families that come in! Never hesitate to tell me a good joke (Or a bad one, the cornier the better). *I want to apologize in advance for all of the little tiny baby voices I WILL use with your animals, its 100% an involuntary and I cant’ help it*

Like all of us here, my passion for animals runs much deeper than this just being my career. I truly love animals of all shapes and sizes – yes, even the little rodents (believe me, I had pet mice, rats, prairie dogs and a squirrel as a kid and I LOVED them!)

I have the two most amazing fur babies at home, my year old cat, Baller, and 2 year old yellow lab Lilly. In her older age, Baller lives a simple life full of naps, and sunbathing. In the colder months, we all love to sit by the fire and watch a funny movie. Lilly loves her treats, but nothing is a match for her love of swimming. She is such a cuddle bug, and an even better hiking partner! They balance each other out with their opposite personalities but have grown to be the best of friends.

When I’m not working or home, you can probably find me and Lilly out on an adventure – whether it’s hiking, splashing around, kayaking, visiting family, or just going for rides! We are a pretty active family, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Hello! My name is Aldona. I graduated as a veterinary technician in 2018 and received my state certification shortly after. I have never imagined doing anything else but working with animals. Becoming a veterinary nurse is a dream come true. People say do what you love and you will never work a day in your life- I strongly disagree. Working in a veterinary setting is RUFF, it’s taking on multiple positions like radiologist, anesthesiologist, surgical assistant, phlebotomist, restrainer, pharmacist, receptionist, a teacher, the list goes on, but that’s what I love about it. Besides being surrounded by animals every day at work, the benefit of this job is continuous education and career growth. I have a special interest in wildlife and exotic animals, as well as animal behavior. Working in a Fear-Free certified practice setting is a huge part of animal behavior that I enjoy, especially as an owner of cats that are very fearful outside of their home and routine.

I was born and lived half of my life in Poland. I moved to New York City at the age of 12 with my family. Couple years later I moved to Connecticut. I am now a happy resident of Burlington. I love nature and wildlife, the city life is not for me! On my days off you will find me in the woods. I love hiking and camping, and spotting wildlife is the best part of any day.

I live with my husband, our mischief cat Little (not-so-little) Uzi, two snakes; a ball python and a boa constrictor, our bearded dragon Ninja, and plenty of fish.

Hi there! My name is Elizabeth Theriault. I am one of the veterinary technicians at the Burlington Veterinary Center. I knew that I wanted to work with animals early on. In fact, in kindergarten I decided that I wanted to be a vet when I grew up and often “practiced” on my childhood cat, Chloe. My passion for animals grew further when I began horseback riding at thirteen years old. I rode and showed horses throughout high school (and later in college too). After discovering my love for horses, I decided that I wanted to become an equine veterinary technician. So, I attended Wilson College, where I majored in Veterinary Medical Technology with a concentration in Equi-Assist. I gained experience working with not only horses, but with various small and large animals too. However, it was in the Clinical Experience course that I discovered my enthusiasm for small animal anesthesia and surgery. I graduated from Wilson College in the spring of 2021 and began working at the Burlington Veterinary Center shortly after. At BVC, I have been able to explore my interest in small animal medicine, as well as utilize and further develop my skills and knowledge as a veterinary technician. In addition to this, I am currently preparing to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam to become a certified veterinary technician. Outside of BVC, I enjoy spending time with my friends, family, and of course, pets. I have a cat, Mia, who likes to spend her days eating and napping (preferably in the sun), and a Cavapoo, Louis, who loves to play with toys (including cat toys) and spend time outside.

My name is Vikki and I’m a certified veterinary technician. I joined the BVC team in 2021. This is my 50th, yea 50th year as a vet tech!

I started out as a theater arts major in college and after 2 years I decided it wasn’t for me. I decided to pursue my passion for animals, and I was fortunate to find a position with my dogs’ veterinarian. It didn’t take but a minute for me to realize this was the career for me. I was fortunate to work with a fantastic tech with a 4-year degree. With her help and tons of continuing education I was able to take the national certification exam the first time it was offered, and I passed! The rest is ancient history.

I have always strived to continue to be curious and to learn. This field has allowed me to enjoy a career that is rarely boring and affords me a real sense of accomplishment.

I share my home with three Irish Water Spaniels, one Shih Tzu, three cats, and 7 birds. They definitely keep me busy! I enjoy showing my Irish Water Spaniels and have made many wonderful friends through showings. Showing them has also made it possible to travel to many wonderful places in this country.

I have worked with many doctors and technicians throughout those many years. I can say without a doubt, this team at BVC is the best! I could not be more proud of this group of dedicated individuals.

Hi Friends, I’m Suzie! I’m newer to Burlington Veterinary Center and I’m so excited to be a part of the Burlington Vet Center family. Currently, I am a Client Service Representative but sometimes you’ll see me in appointments getting to know more about you, and your pets!

I’ve always had animals in my life and at one point I had my own Suzie’s Zoo! I never thought of working in a vet’s office before, but extremely happy I had the opportunity to join this amazing team! Each day I am here I strive to do my best and learn something new.

When I’m not working at BVC, I enjoy spending my time as a server to provide great service, good food and some entertainment. I also enjoy camping and being chauffeured on the back of my fiancé’s and mine Harley!

I have 4 beautiful children, and six wonderful fur babies. My little lady Sophie who is a chihuahua, Louie my Papillon, Sully and Mikey my crazy kitties and two parrots; an Eclectus, Gunner and an Indian Ring Neck, Quakerton!

Hi! My name is Libby, and I’m a veterinary technician at the Burlington Veterinary Center. I studied Business and Psychology at Saint Michael’s College in Colchester,Vermont where I worked as a dog handler at a local dog rescue. Working in rescue taught me how to work hard and work as a team, love compassionately, and most importantly, made me realize nothing compares to being around animals all day every day. After working in rescue for three years,I knew I was meant to be in the veterinary field. Flash forward two years, and I love every minute of it.

Growing up with three older brothers I spent a lot of my time with my family’s pets.From cats to dogs to hamsters and guinea pigs, animals were and still are my best of friends – much better company than big brothers if I must say! In my first year of college, I adopted a husky (with a lot of attitude) who was a stray in the south. The following year, I adopted another husky who came from a terrible neglect situation…let’s just say, my home is never quiet!

Aside from the wonderful animals I get to work with, my favorite part of working at the Burlington Veterinary Center is the people. Working with such a strong team of individuals who build each other up and show compassion for one another (and your pets) is beyond compare. Additionally are the clients. Getting to know clients, their families, their neighbors, and friends are what makes BVC feel like a second home to me.

Outside of work, you can find me in Vermont, my forever home (even though I’m from CT, shh!), with my family and my dogs, Luna, Yeti, and Brembo. I love to snowboard, play guitar, go to car shows with my boyfriend and admire my excessive amount of indoor plants (pet-safe plants only)!