Dr. Jeremy Salvatore, DVM
Veterinarian, Co-Owner
Hi, I’m Dr. Jeremy!
I grew up in the Ridgewood area of Queens, NY. For my undergraduate studies, I attended UCONN and majored in Animal Science, Pathobiology, and Veterinary Sciences. Emily and I met at UCONN and we graduated in 2006. Shortly after this we relocated to Ithaca, and I enrolled in veterinary school at Cornell University. I received my DVM in 2010 and worked in Cortland, NY for two years while Emily finished her degree. After I graduated in 2010, we got married. We returned to Connecticut to be closer to both of our families, knowing that we wanted to start a family at some point. We originally lived in Middletown, Connecticut, since I was working in North Branford, Connecticut.
Emily and I relocated to Oxford once I started working in Brookfield. I worked there for around three years before moving on to a position at a practice in Trumbull, CT. We fell in love with Oxford and wanted to stay in the neighborhood. It was the ideal combination of the country life we had grown to love while living in upstate New York and being near enough to the city to enjoy it as well. We subsequently purchased a home in nearby Southbury.
From a young age, I was fascinated by animals. I recall going to the Queens public library and bringing home volumes of books about various animals. I also possessed a collection of Golden Guides, which detailed a wide range of animal species. A true nerd to the core. I was always fascinated by how they operated and how they evolved particular adaptations to live the way they did. I also grew up with various pets and enjoyed going to the vet with my parents and grandfather. I remember caring for a dog of ours that had a wound on its paw that needed to be treated. I’d replace his bandage on a frequent basis and bathe his paw to help it recover.
My favorite thing about working with animals are their individual personalities and getting to know the animals and their owners.
When I was in veterinary school, I recall one case that came in through the ER and was moved to internal medicine. The dog was terrified of everyone and would bite anyone who approached him. To keep everyone safe, the dog had to wear a basket muzzle at the hospital. I gradually gained the dog’s trust, and he would allow me to conduct treatments on him and hand-feed him by the time he was ready to leave the hospital. Bonding with that dog reassured me that I was on the right path.
In terms of my unique interests or accolades, I received the Gentle Doctor award in veterinary school, as well as an award for excellence in anatomy. I also belong to the AVMA. My areas of focus include pet dentistry and internal medicine.
Cornell University’s teachers were all fantastic, but I really loved working with the residents and staff of the internal medicine department. They had a significant role in shaping the doctor I am today. Dentistry is a sometimes overlooked aspect of an animal’s health. I enjoy teaching owners how oral health may affect the overall health of the animal and why it is so important to get those check-ups and cleanings.
Emily and I have two children – our son Lucas who was born in 2015, and our daughter Ella who was born 2019.
Outside of work, I love going hiking and cooking. I also enjoy reading books of various genres, but mostly stick to mysteries and science fiction.
Dr. Emily Salvatore, DVM
Veterinarian, Co-Owner
Hi, I’m Dr. Emily!
I grew up in Eastern Connecticut and attended UCONN for college, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science, pathobiology, and veterinary sciences. I then spent two years at Cornell University’s Animal Health Diagnostic Center, a state-of-the-art laboratory in New York. I received my veterinary degree in 2012 and then relocated back to Connecticut to be closer to family. We moved to this part of Connecticut in 2013 and began raising our family in 2015!
I started working in veterinary medicine as a volunteer in an animal clinic when I was 15 years old. Working with dogs and cats and advocating for their health since they couldn’t speak for themselves rapidly became my passion.
Surgery, particularly soft tissue surgery, is something I love. I also like teaching owners about preventative medicine and animal husbandry. I believe it is critical to provide owners with as much information as possible to help them determine what is best for their pets’ health.
I met Jeremy at UCONN and we married in 2010. We have one son, Lucas, and one daughter, Ella. They are the source of our pride and joy!
We also have a cat named Wally as well as two rescue puppies named Dug and Tessie. I am a die-hard Red Sox fan who likes watching them play at Fenway Park or on TV. We enjoy hiking and traveling as a family, and I enjoy reading in my spare time or going to the beach!
Michelle Rodriguez
Practice Manager, Veterinary Technician
Hi, I’m Michelle!
I grew up in Oxford, I attended Southern Connecticut University where I majored in Biology. I have been working as a Veterinary technician for the past 11 years. Mainly in small animal practice.
I have always had a passion for helping animals and sharing general knowledge with their owners about their pets! I enjoy being a surgery technician and love being a dental technician as it can be so rewarding in the end!
I still currently reside in Oxford with my husband Jansy, we married in 2018. We have a daughter Ivy, who was born in 2019, and a son Jaime, who was born in 2021. We also have a pit mix named Scarlet and a cat named Noodles! We enjoy family time altogether, traveling, the park, hiking, and finding a new place to take our kids on the weekends to see them light up with joy!
Zoe Sarmiento
Veterinary Technician
Hi, I’m Zoe!
I grew up in a little town called Port Chester, located in Westchester County. Went to Westchester community college. I have been in the veterinary field for 22 years. I reside in Newtown with my daughter Bella and her father Vito and I love it. Growing up in very noisy and crowded town living in Newtown feels like heaven 🙂
I began working in the veterinary field because I’ve been around and have loved animals since I was a very young girl. I love interacting with pets because I love to see their pretty little faces.
I have a 14-year-old daughter who also shares the same passion for animals as I do. In my spare time, I do dog sitting or hang out with my three doggies Toby, Missy, and Trixie, as you can see, I’m around dogs and cats 24/7 🙂
Marykate Mckenna
Customer Care Representative
Hi, I’m Marykate!
I grew up in East Hartford CT and currently live in Southbury CT with my Husband Mike. I have Been in the veterinary field for over 17 years. I knew I wanted to work with animals at a very young age and was overjoyed when I got my first job offer at a clinic in Danbury. I love surgeries, and emergency cases which eventually brought me to work at a specialty center for a few years. I decided to slow down a bit when we found out we were expecting our twin daughters and that is what led me back to being in a smaller setting and coming back to a general practice. I now have four wonderful children named Ariana, Gianna, Lilliana, and Michael who love animals just as much as I do. I enjoy comforting clients and pets in their time of need, and I love building strong friendships with my amazing co workers here at Evergreen! I have an amazing dog named Fred and a Spunky kitty named Oreo. I also love having pet chickens and plan to add more to our family in the near future! In my spare time I enjoy taking my kids to the aquarium or the Zoo, baking goodies for my loved ones, planning family vacations, and gardening.
Jess Brauer
Veterinary Technician
Hi, I’m Jess!
I’m a Veterinary Technician here at Evergreen Veterinary Clinic. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from the University of Rhode Island in 2013, which kickstarted my journey into the veterinary field. I’ve been working in this industry for over 10 years now. My career began with large animals, but after a few years, I made the switch to small companion animals, where I found my true passion. I have a special interest in how nutrition plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of animals, and I love seeing the difference it can make in their lives.
Outside of work, I live in Shelton, CT, with my dog, Ringo, and my cat, Henry. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with friends, diving into a good book, and playing computer and video games. It’s all about finding that balance between caring for others and enjoying the little things in life.
Becky Fox
Veterinary Technician
Hi, I’m Becky!
I grew up in Southbury with 3 dogs and always wanted to work with animals. I went to Nonnewaug High School for their Agri-science program and loved their animal science program. I worked at a local vet for many years before joining the Evergreen team in 2023. I currently live with my fiancé, our 2 dogs Roxie and Ruby and our bearded dragon Benny.
I love working with animals and being there for their owners. I love seeing puppies from their first visit and watching them grow up over the years. In my spare time I love to garden, crochet and be outside with my dogs.
Gina Cedeno
Veterinary Technician
Hi, I’m Gina!
I’m a Veterinary Technician here at Evergreen Veterinary Clinic. I was born and raised in Connecticut and have called this state home my entire life. From a very young age, I knew I wanted to work with animals. That passion only grew stronger over time, and I eventually found myself in the veterinary field, where I could dedicate my time and skills to helping animals in need.
Working with animals brings me so much joy. I love being able to solve their problems, advocate for their needs, and give them the care they deserve—especially since they can’t speak for themselves. Animals have always provided a safe space for me, and I feel incredibly lucky to return that comfort through my work. Every day I walk into the clinic, I’m reminded that I chose the right path—I truly love what I do.
Outside of work, you can usually find me outdoors hiking or running with my Golden Doodle, Gypsy. I also have a deep love for large animals and enjoy spending time with horses whenever I get the chance. Whether I’m in the clinic or out in the field, animals are a constant and meaningful part of my life.
Dana Corbett
Certified Veterinary Technician
Hi, I’m Dana!
I am a Certified Veterinary Technician here at Evergreen Veterinary Clinic. I’ve always known I wanted to work with animals—it’s a passion that started in childhood, growing up surrounded by dogs and cats. That love led me to pursue my associate degree at Platt College in California, and after moving to Connecticut, I earned my credentials by passing the VTNE.
Being a veterinary technician allows me to live out my purpose every day—helping animals who can’t help themselves. I truly believe that we are their voice and their advocates, and that’s a responsibility I take to heart.
When I’m not at the clinic, you can usually find me crocheting cozy blankets, hiking through the beautiful fall foliage, or enjoying a good spooky movie. I’m grateful to be part of a team that shares my commitment to compassionate animal care.
Kim Monaco
Veterinary Technician/Customer Care Representative
Hi, I’m Kim!
I’m a Technician and Customer Care Representative at Evergreen Veterinary Clinic. I’ve worked in the veterinary field for over 30 years, with experience in both general practice and pharmaceutical research. I’m ALAT and Fear Free Certified, and I’m passionate about making each pet feel safe and comfortable during their visit. What I love most about this work is building lasting relationships with both the animals and their humans—helping pets feel at ease is truly rewarding, and I can’t imagine doing anything else.
Outside of the clinic, I’m a proud mom to a beautiful daughter and two wonderful dogs. We love spending time outdoors together, whether it’s going for walks, hiking local trails, or enjoying a relaxing day at the beach. Being part of the Evergreen team allows me to do what I love every day while continuing to support and connect with our amazing community.
Erin Kellerman
Customer Care Representative
Hi, I’m Erin!
I grew up in Shelton, CT, and attended Housatonic Community College for General Studies. For the last 14 years, I’ve been in retail management. In 2017, I married my best friend Matt and started our family in 2018 welcoming our daughter Aubrey in 2018 & Everly in 2021.
Being in Retail Customer Service for well over a decade I desired a career change that worked well for my family. A bonus for me is that I’ll be able to continue working to provide a great customer experience, as well as care for their animals. I’ve also been a pet sitter for more than 20 years, caring for dogs, cats, and even pigs! I’m looking forward to working for Evergreen Veterinary Clinic and meeting new people!
We also have two pups, Flo, a Puggle 13, and Milo, Jack Russel/Rat Terrier 10! They both balance each other out, one lazy and the other is activated! As for outside of work, I’m super crafty and started up a little Bowtique back in 2018 making hair accessories for girls, custom wreaths, and home decor. Family time is my favorite time, watching my girls experience new times is simply amazing! I can’t wait to be a part of the Evergreen Veterinary Clinic family!
Nina Randazzo
Customer Care Representative
Hi, I’m Nina!
I’m a Customer Care Representative here at Evergreen Veterinary Clinic. My journey in veterinary medicine began in 2020 at Poster Animal Hospital in Westport, CT, where I started as a kennel attendant. Within a few months, I was working my way up—first to assistant, then reception, and eventually technician. A year later, I joined Trumbull Animal Hospital as an assistant, where I quickly grew into the role of Lead Assistant. That opportunity helped me deepen my skills and knowledge in ways I never imagined. After a few years, I continued my path at Pieper Vet in Stratford as a Vet Tech. Eventually, I transitioned to client services because I wanted to focus more on supporting clients directly. From the moment I stepped into this field, I knew I had found the right profession—six years later, I’m still just as passionate.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family—my parents, Karen and Peter, my boyfriend Steven, and our sweet pup Caia. I’m always up for an adventure! Whether it’s trying out a new restaurant, heading to a boxing class, or even cliff jumping into lakes, I love experiencing new things and making lasting memories with the people I care about.
Kiersten Petrocelli
Customer Care Representative
Hi, I’m Kiersten!
I’m a Customer Care Representative here at Evergreen Veterinary Clinic. I grew up in Oxford and lived there for 27 years before settling down in Seymour with my husband, Christian. My experience with animals comes from years of hands-on care and a lifelong passion that began in childhood. I’ve always been fascinated by animals—some of my earliest memories are of camping trips to Assateague, MD, where I’d watch the wild horses roam the shore. From there, my love for animals only grew. I rode horses with friends and cared for dogs, cats, chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs throughout my life.
I’ve been working in the veterinary field for over 12 years. I got my start when I saw an ad in the newspaper for a kennel position at a local vet hospital. That opportunity led to a technician role, which I held for five years. When I was expecting my daughter, Gianna, I transitioned into the customer care side of the clinic, which has been such a rewarding change. I love being a part of every step in a pet’s care journey—from first visits to follow-ups—and helping clients feel heard and supported.
Outside of work, I live with my husband, our daughter, and our cat, London. We’re hoping to welcome an English bulldog into the family soon! Gianna is already showing signs that she shares my love for animals—she’s so kind and gentle with every creature she meets. In my free time, I enjoy pet sitting, baking, and have recently taken up gardening. Working with animals every day and seeing their resilience and joy reminds me exactly why I chose this path.