Dr. Kristina graduated from the University of Minnesota’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 2004. In the spring of 2012, she realized her lifelong dream of opening her own practice, Maplebrook Pet Care Center. She lives in Brooklyn Park with her family and a houseful of furry kids. Her menagerie includes a pack of Dachshunds, a retired Seeing Eye guide dog named Sonny,a special needs Persian cat and a beautiful tabby cat, Clover, that runs the show. She has always been passionate about rescuing animals and you will often find several foster pets staying at her house while waiting for adoption. Dr. Kristina manages her patient’s care with the same compassion and expertise with which she cares for her own loved ones. Her philosophy embraces a strong belief in forming a close partnership with her clients to provide optimal pet care. She truly loves her chosen career and looks forward to caring for you and your pets for the next 30 years!

FUN FACT: Dr. Kristina loves opposums!

Dr. Alyssa Ziche joined Maplebrook in January of 2024.

She studied at the University of Minnesota, earning her Veterinary Degree in 2014. She also studied Animal Science at UW - River Falls. Dr. Alyssa has a special interest in Dentistry. She is driven by her passion and love for animals, and looks forward to helping people strengthen the bond with their pets and being a part of their healthcare journey.

Drawn to Maplebrook by the location and inviting atmosphere, Dr. Alyssa brings with her several years of experience and a menagerie of pets - Olive, her beautiful Golden Retriever; Kate, her beloved Appendix Quarter Horse; and two goldfish, Goldie and Snowflake! She resides with her husband Ryan and daughter Addy here in the St Paul community.

When she is not busy taking care of patients, Dr. Alyssa enjoys hiking, baking, horse-back riding, and participating in Dock Diving with Olive. And if the season is right, you can almost hear her cheering on the Green Bay Packers!

Welcome to the MBPCC Family, Dr. Alyssa!

FUN FACT: Dr. Alyssa has a twin sibling!

Dr. Amberleigh joined our team as a doctor and co-owner in 2014. She grew up in Roseville, MN and completed undergraduate studies at Hamline University in St. Paul. She obtained her degree in Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine in Fort Collins, CO. She began her career in Colorado but after several years returned to practice veterinary medicine in the land of 10,000 lakes. Dr. Amberleigh brought with her Max, a Dachshund, and Ginger, an Australian Cattle dog. Her family has since grown to include Sierra – a yellow Lab, Julian – a white and orange tabby cat and Masja, a beautiful rescued pit bull puppy.

Although they keep her busy she still manages to find time for her favorite activities- boating, traveling, reading, and gardening. Dr. Amberleigh believes in partnering with her clients to provide their pets with optimal care. Her philosophy fits perfectly with our mission here at Maplebrook Pet Care Center. After all, they are family!

FUN FACT: Dr. Amber wants to have a hobby farm – and she achieved that goal in 2022!

Dr. Sarita Patel joined the team in September 2013.

She started here as a kennel assistant and then achieved her dream of attending Veterinary School, joining the Maplebrook team as a doctor in 2018. She obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She also holds an Animal Science degree from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities.

She was born and raised right here in Maplewood, MN. Her special interests include exotic animal medicine, preventative medicine, geriatric care, and surgery. Dr. Sarita is very passionate about partnering with her clients to provide high quality veterinary care for all furry family members. When not in the clinic, she very much enjoys outdoor activities, DIY projects, traveling the world, eating delicious desserts, needle arts, and spending quality time with her family including her daughter Lucy, partner Damien, rescue bunnies (Alby, Mira, Francois and Iris), pups (Lily and Mimi), kitty (Peachie), and Hedgehog (Jules).

Dr. Sarita adores all her current patients, and can’t wait to meet you and your family pets!

FUN FACT: Dr. Sarita is a tea fancier and brews homemade chai just about every morning.

When Maplebrook offered then-technician AJ a position as an Associate Veterinarian after getting his Doctorate, his answer was “ABSOLUTELY YES!”

Dr. AJ first joined the team in May of 2019 as a Veterinary Assistant. While working here, he excelled in his academics and obtained his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 2021 from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities.

At home, he cares for 4 furry pals, Rooney, Max and his two kitties, Charles and Wumbo. He also recently acquired two chickens named Blanche and Rose. In his free time, you will find him camping, hiking, or playing soccer! He is also a regular participant in the World Axe Throwing League.

Dr. AJ has a special interest in both feline and internal medicine. “My mission is to ensure that all patients receive the best possible medical care, and there is no place that I would rather be pursuing this goal than at Maplebrook with the amazing staff, wonderful clients, and fantastic pets.”

Dr. AJ looks forward to growing bonds with current and new clients/patients!

FUN FACT: Dr. AJ was born in California!

Natalie joined us in late August of 2017!

She has been in the veterinary field since 2007 when she graduated from Minnesota School of Business-Globe.

Her and her husband, Jonah, currently live in rural Minnesota near Northfield and drives far to work with us. She has an Irish Setter named Gus, two sassy lady kitties named Miss Kitty and Nova, a snuggly male cat named Buddy, a trouble-making little boy Ducky, and finally three outside ladies including Mama, Magnolia and Number Six. In her free time, she likes to read, listen to podcasts, and spend time outside.

Her passion in this industry is teaching and educating pet parents how to help keep their pets happy and healthy. She is certified in “Fear-Free” program to encourage each pets experience is happy and as low stress as it can be. She is a great asset to our team and brings a level of care, experience and efficiency that is unmatched.

Welcome to the Maplebrook family, Natalie!

FUN FACT: Natalie enjoys a good book, or 30!

Anne joined the Maplebrook team October 2019.

She received her Associates degree in Veterinary Technology from Globe College in 2007.

Anne enjoys spending time here at Maplebrook, but when she’s not at the clinic she enjoys time with her husband Jimbo, and her two kids, Tommy and Ava. Her furry family members include a Black Mouth Cur named Ellie Mae, and 2 kitties, Emma and Herbie. She enjoys watching her favorite sports teams (Vikings, Twins, Wild and Loons), baking, biking, taking Ellie on walks and spending time with her family.

Anne is very passionate about caring for animals and has a special interest in performing dental cleanings – it is so satisfying removing chunks of plaque and tartar! She really enjoys learning all the new things Veterinary medicine has to offer and hopes to become fear-free certified someday.

We’re truly honored that Anne joined the MBPCC team!

FUN FACT: Anne loves to grow her plant family and is our resident Crazy Plant Lady!

Taylor joined our growing team in July of 2019.

She graduated from North Dakota State University where she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology with a Minor in Animal Science with a special focus on large animal studies. Taylor enrolled back into academics in pursuit of veterinary school.

Aside from working as a CVT, Taylor took over the Maplebrook social media, marketing & promotional work in late 2019!

Taylor has a Siamese mix flame point kitty, named Zygi and 2 dogs, Milly and Oaklie. Her favorite hobby/pastime is heading to the gym for a good workout. She also enjoys at home crafts/writing poetry, visiting with her family and keeping up to speed on football games/news!

Welcome to the Maplebrook family Taylor!

FUN FACT: Taylor worked on a dairy farm!

Amanda joined our team in September of 2022.

Amanda, who grew up in Lino Lakes, is a seasoned CVT who obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland and minored in Philosophy. She then continued her education by earning her Vet Tech certification from Argosy University.

She also boasts an adorable pet family that includes her grumpy old Chesapeake Mix Coal, Winnifred the Soft-coated Wheaten, and her fat orange tabby named Pumpkin.

When Amanda isn’t busy taking care of her pets or working here, she enjoys reading and hiking. She is passionate about animals, wildlife, and science – working in vet med is the perfect balance of both! Amanda also spent several years working for the Pet Poison Helpline, which helped her become extremely knowledgeable in Toxicology!

FUN FACT: “I don’t have a fun fact.” -Amanda

Sandie started with us September of 2018.

Sandie is a St. Paul native. She graduated from Dakota County Technical College & recently passed the VTNE to become a Certified Veterinary Technician! Sandie started her career with us as an Animal Care Attendant/Front Desk staff, and just look how she has grown!

At home she has 3 cute kitties – Mango, Cheddar, and Gouda, plus a gargoyle gecko named Papaya. In her spare time, she likes to read, watch movies, and visit Disney theme parks as many times as humanly possible!

She loves this industry because she loves animals, wants to help clients strengthen their bond with their pets, and spread knowledge of responsible pet care. She is also fear-free certified.

Thanks for joining MBPCC Sandie!

FUN FACT: Sandie was born in France!

Beth came to Maplebrook in February of 2024!

Beth studied at Johnson and Wales University, where she got her Bachelors in Equine health, and was enrolled in the Penn Foster Technician Program, where she received her Certification.

At home, Beth and her wife Alicia wrangle four cats – Kit Kat, Peanut, Desmond and Auburn. In her spare time, she enjoys the great outdoors - running, hiking, and fishing are some of her favorite hobbies, along with spending time with her family (furry and otherwise)!

In the field since 2006, Beth loves working with animals, and says she can’t see herself doing anything else! She has a true passion for the field and looks forward to helping pets and their people thrive.

So glad to have you on the team, Beth!

FUN FACT: Beth has a Black Belt in Tang Soo Do!

Grace joined our team in October of 2019.

Grace is a motivated Veterinary Assistant who grew up in Farmington and is currently attending University of Wisconsin – River Falls. She is studying Animal Science with an emphasis on Equine Science, and is on the pre-vet track. Her passion for animals and science helps drive her to learn more about animal health, and eventually reach her ultimate goal of becoming a Large Animal Veterinarian!

Grace has a menagerie of animals at home, including four cats, two dogs, four birds (including an African Gray, a Green Cheek Conure, a Senegal Parrot, and a Green Aracari), two snakes (a Ball Python and a Hognose), one Leopard Gecko, one horse, and a tank full of a variety of fishies! She practically has her own zoo!

When Grace is not working (which is hardly ever!), she enjoys horseback riding, reading and mountain biking.

FUN FACT: Grace shows horses competitively, and recently debuted her own photography business!

Ericka came to Maplebrook at the beginning of December 2020!

She grew up in Bayfield, WI where she enjoyed attending the yearly Bayfield Apple Festival. Later on in life, Ericka attended UW River Falls in pursuit of an English major/Criminal Justice minor. Ericka recently moved to her new home in the Cities with her fiancé Cody, their kitties Mina & Dobby, plus a Russian Tortoise named Vlad. She will probably end up adopting other exotic pets someday!

Some of her favorite activities include cooking, playing video games and crafting. She has even made props and decor for our Halloween parties!

Ericka is especially fond of senior pets and she has had a lifelong passion for animals. When a pet is scared, lonely, or just needs some snackies, it is Ericka’s goal to make them feel safe, healthy and loved.

Welcome to the Maplebrook family, Ericka!

FUN FACT: Ericka is a huge fan of everything Disney!

Wendy joined the Maplebrook team in August of 2022!

Wendy came to us all the way from Riverside, California where she attended California Polytechnic State University and obtained her Bachelors of Animal Science degree. From there, she came to us and is working as a Veterinary Assistant. She hopes to gain more experience in the field before she applying to Vet school.

Outside of work, Wendy enjoys the outdoors, doing activities such as kayaking and hiking. On rainy days, she likes to cook, craft, and make jewelry. Finally, she likes to hang out with her yellow Lab named Moose. Wendy and her roommate have also recently acquired a leopard gecko named Gazpacho and several fishies.

Welcome to the Maplebrook family. Wendy!

FUN FACT: In college, Wendy worked on an elephant seal research team – she learned so much about how best to protect this endangered species and educate others about them!

Katy joined our Maplebrook family in June of 2023!

Katy was born on the sunny west coast of California, but moved to Minnesota at a young age and has grown up here ever since. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from UW – Eau Claire in Wisconsin.

At home, she has a large furry family, consisting of two dogs (Maya, her 13-year-old Chocolate Lab, and Marlee, a 9-year-old Shepherd) and two kitties (Mia the Torti and Kip the Orange Tabby). She also has some human family at home, including her Mom, Dad, and younger brother.

When she isn’t hard at work here at MBPCC, Katy enjoys volunteering at a local farm sanctuary, going to concerts, travelling, and spending time with her family, friends and, of course, pets!

Animal care is the biggest passion in Katy’s life – she has a special interest in rescues and working with pets that need love the most. This, as well as building lasting relationships with clients and their companions, drives her to continue in the challenging field of Veterinary medicine!

FUN FACT: Katy is ambidextrous!

Carlie joined us at the end of December 2020.

Local to the area, she grew up here in Maplewood, and graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Animal Science. Carlie is attending the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine currently, and is on track to become a Vet in a few short years!

Currently at home, she has 2 dogs- Marley and Nala, plus 3 kitties – Cleo, Tippy & Frito!

When not working, her favorite things to do include traveling, going to concerts, and going up to her family cabin on Bone Lake.

Carlie came to us with the desire to grow her knowledge in veterinary medicine and gain more experience within the field. She thrives to strengthen the human-animal bond and to share her passion with others.

FUN FACT: Carlie has gone snorkeling with sea turtles, sting rays, and sharks!

Ashley came to our team in December of 2022.

Ashley came all the way from Poughkeepsie, New York, where she attended Binghamton University to obtain her Bachelor’s degree in Biology. She is now studying at the University of Minnesota, where she will eventually complete the DVM program.

At her home in St Paul, Ashley lives with her boyfriend and two beloved Guinea Pigs, cleverly named Sans and Papyrus.

When she is not busy with school or work, she likes to pass the time drawing and playing video/board games. She is excited to start teaching clients about caring for exotic pets like guinea pigs, ferrets, rabbits, and other unusual critters – they are her favorite part of the job!

So glad to have you on the team, Ashley!

FUN FACT: Ashley enjoys designing her own cosplays – and proudly wearing them to local anime conventions!

Anika joined our team in February of 2023!

Hailing from sunny CA, Anika studied at California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo and obtained her Bachelor’s of Animal Science, minoring in Biology. She is currently in vet school with a goal of becoming an Exotics vet!

At home, Anika hangs out with her bun Buford, her dogs Ada and Baxter, a pair of cockatiels (Ozzie and Noctis), and most recently, a Leopard gecko named Gazpacho.

When she is not hard at work or attending classes, Anika likes to bowl, visit aquariums, play trivia and watch Netflix. Or, of course, taking care of her zoo of pets!

Welcome to the Maplebrook team, Anika!

FUN FACT: Anika is a dual citizen! (America and Australia)
EXTRA FUN FACT: Anika is roomies with our VA Wendy!

Jen has been with us since the very first day our doors opened in 2012!

She had previously worked for twenty years as a veterinary assistant, bringing with her valuable experience and a genuine care for animals. As our full time veterinary receptionist, Jen works hard every day to exceed your expectations. From welcoming you to our practice, guiding you through your visit and then following up with you via phone and email, Jen is a major part of the very foundation of Maplebrook. Her commitment to providing you and your pets with an exceptionable experience shows in the excellent customer service she provides. She is also passionate about being a spokesperson for the “bully” dog breeds due to the public’s common misconception of them.

Jen enjoys spending time here at Maplebrook but when she is not at the clinic she enjoys spending time with her husband Jason and son Devyn, along with their Siamese cat, Tiger and their sweet doggo Godiva. She also enjoys crafting and cooking for her family and friends.

We are thrilled to have Jen on the MBPCC team!

FUN FACT: Jen loves to play bingo!

Tessa came to us in August of 2021!

She attended Century College for general studies back in 2007, and after several unfulfilling sales positions, she decided to try something new. Four years later, she became a skilled Client Relations Specialist and joined our team here at Maplebrook!

Off the clock, Tessa loves to read, watch documentaries and explore new places. She also enjoys being home with her boyfriend, stepdaughter, her mini panther Merlot, and her spicy torti Nikkita. Tessa dreams of living by the ocean someday, to enjoy a luxurious life of watching for sea turtles and sipping cool beverages.

Welcome to the Maplebrook family, Tessa!

FUN FACT: Tessa has visited 4 international countries – Germany, Austria, Hungary & the Czech Republic.

Ava joined our team in July 2019.

She just graduated high school and now studies at the University of Minnesota. Ava has been in competitive dance for the past 13 years, and loves it! Ava has lots of pets at home – she is Dr. Kristina’s daughter and lives with her furry crew of Dachshunds, kitties and other various visitors.

She is excited to be helping out at the clinic and giving our boarding pets the best love and care!

Welcome to the MBPCC family!

FUN FACT: Ava loves to order unique drinks from Starbucks!

Emma came to us in February 2020.

She currently attends the University of Wisconsin Madison, studying Zoology with a pre-Veterinary track.

At home, Emma has a whopping FIVE dogs – Chester, Gary, Fezz, Odin and Puglo, plus a crazy ferret named Peaches. Outside of loving on her fur family, she also enjoys painting, traveling and running. Emma is very creative, and helps design the murals, chalkboards and decor here at the clinic!

Her eventual goal is to become a Veterinarian, to help animals of all shapes and sizes feel their best.

Welcome to the Maplebrook family, Emma!

FUN FACT: Emma loves visiting Tybee Island in Georgia!

Macy joined us in late May, 2020.

She is currently studying biology at the University of Wisconsin Madison and will obtain a certificate in environmental studies. She is also on the pre-vet track!

Back home, she has 3 family dogs! Debo, Jango and Dolly “Paw”ton live at home, and Mr. Butters the cat lives with Macy at her apartment in Wisconsin. In her free time, Macy loves to play soccer and keep active. She continues to strive in making a difference in animals lives.

Welcome to the Maplebrook family Macy!

FUN FACT: Macy’s favorite animal is a sea lion!

Annika joined us at the end of March 2022!

She is currently an active student at Mounds View High School! At home she has four pets, including 3 kitties and a dog.

When she isn’t too busy working or studying, Annika enjoys tubing, hiking, and taking her dog for a walk. Annika would love to be a veterinarian someday!

Welcome to the Maplebrook family Annika!

FUN FACT: Annika loves to bake!

Carly joined us in the summer of 2023.

Carly grew up in Hugo and currently goes to White Bear Lake Area High School. She is working towards an eventual career in the Veterinary field.

At home, she has a dog named Bauer and three human siblings. She enjoys hanging out with friends and spending time on the lake – she especially loves paddleboarding!

At MBPCC, Carly takes care of our boarding patients, helping to keep them happy and healthy while their parents are away!

Thanks for becoming part of the MBPCC family, Carly!

FUN FACT: Carly is one in a set of triplets!