Meet the Staff at Long Branch Animal Hospital
The first thing you'll notice when you walk into our hospital is the incredibly friendly and inviting staff. Members of our team have been chosen because we know they will provide you & your pet the best possible experience during your visit. Learn more about our team below!
Jennifer Zawistowski, Office Manager
Jennifer joined the Long Branch Animal Hospital team in November of 2017. Her efficient multi-tasking skills and calm disposition make her a perfect fit for our office manager position. Jennifer handles everything from answering the hospital phones to administering medications to patients. She keeps the hospital “in order” on a daily basis and makes sure our clients have a positive experience when visiting us.
She has more than 30 years in the animal health care field. She also has a degree in Biology from St. Peter’s University. “Helping patients stay healthy and feel better when they're not” is what she loves best about working with animals.
When Jennifer is not working at the hospital, she keeps busy by running her two son’s Justin and Lucas to various sporting events and activities. The Z house can be quite chaotic at times with all the 4-legged and feathered family members. In her spare time she enjoys reading a great book, baking or doing a puzzle. She’s most happy being outdoors, particularly at the beach or in a pool, hanging with family and friends.
Nicole DeSarno, Client Service Representative
Hey everyone! My name is Nicole and I've been working at Long Branch Animal Hospital since June of 2012! I started off as a receptionist and with experience have grown into my current position as a Veterinary Technician/Supervisor. My job duties are assisting the doctor with patients during exams, collecting medical histories, accurate record keeping, performing treatments, collecting samples from your pet and client education. I attend CE webinars to stay in the know about the most current veterinary care and recommendations. During my free time I enjoy spending time with my animals, attending hard rock concerts and learning about makeup artistry! Long branch animal hospital has always been my second home and I love our team. I strive to provide the best personal fear free care for your pet! Animals are a gift and I couldn't ask for a better profession.
Shanell Acevedo, Client Service Representative
Shanell is one of our bilingual customer service representatives, who has been employed with us for 4 years now. Her bright smile and pleasant attitude will be the first things to greet you as you walk through the door. She enjoys working with animals and it clearly shows. She is always there to lend a helping hand whether it is translating for our doctors or answering any questions you may have. Shanell can adeptly alleviate your concerns and decrease any worry you may be feeling.
She currently dotes on her 4 year old Bichon Frise, Coco. In her time off, she enjoys walking on the beach, reading or spending time with family and friends. We are so grateful to have her as part of our team!
Estefany Perez, Technician Assistant / Client Service Representative
Estefany joined our team in October 2019. From a young age, working in the veterinary field is a goal she has always strived for. She interned at the Norristown Zoo in Pennsylvania, where she was able to gain experience working with exotic animals. She has always had pets and other animals in her life and because of those bonds and experiences her love and passion for animals grew and she couldn’t see herself doing anything else.
Estefany graduated with a Bachelors in Biology from Cabrini University in 2019. Since graduating, she has successfully completed her certification to become a Veterinary Assistant and has been using all her skills and knowledge to excel at work and in life. Still striving to reach her dream goal of becoming a veterinarian she looks forward to continuing her education in the Spring to be ready to apply for veterinary school in the fall.
In her free time, Estefany enjoys spending time with her two precious Pit Bulls, Mocha and Simba. She also enjoys going to the beach, arts and crafts, and traveling.
Athena McDuffie, Client Service Representative
Athena joined our team in May, 2020. She was born and raised in Long Branch. Before coming to work at the animal hospital, she worked at a family owned pizzeria for 16 years. Athena has 2 cats, Spook and Baby. She has always wanted to work with animals and loves the atmosphere at Long Branch Animal Hospital.
In her free time, Athena enjoys the beach, long walks and reading anything with history and mystery. She also enjoys watching football and her team is the Philadelphia Eagles. She is very family oriented and she recently got married and is enjoying every last bit of it.
Gina, Veterinary Technician
Hello everyone, my name is Gina. I started working at Long Branch Animal Hospital in 2021. I have 20 years experience as a veterinary technician. I could not imagine doing anything else! Working with animals is my true passion and getting to know them and their owners is a privilege. I strive to provide the best possible compassionate care to everyone.
When I am not working, I spend time with my 2 amazing boys. I’m also a mom to 3 dogs, 3 cats, 3 rats and a snake. Like I said, I love all animals and look forward to helping you and your furry family members.
