Allie Rizzo, DVM
Veterinarian Dr. Allie Rizzo grew up in Connecticut and always dreamed of becoming a veterinarian and moving to New York City. She graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine on St Kitts and Nevis, where she adopted her beloved island dog, Ryder (who is now a pampered city dog). Dr. Rizzo has a passion […]
Jeanette Norman
Veterinary Assistant I am a 25-year-old graduate of College of Staten Island. I enjoy exploring outdoor activities and discovering new food spots throughout NYC. I have been in the Veterinary field for over 5 years. I am a proud pet owner to Lizzy, my 7-year-old Yorkshire Terrier. I am currently continuing my education to become […]
Kyle Viljoen-Riley
Veterinary Nurse Kyle brings warmth, curiosity, and calm energy to every appointment. Originally from South Africa working in wild animal rehabilitation and now based in New York City after winning the humorous hearts of Americans on Reality TV. He combines a global perspective with a deep love for companion animals and the people who care […]
Jeffery Escala
Veterinary Assistant Hello, my name is Jeffrey. I am a proud New York City native, born and raised in Queens, with family roots in Ecuador. I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and deeply value compassion, inclusivity, and care—both in my personal life and my work. I share my life with my German Shepherd, […]
Sharice Jones-Frazier
Lead Customer Service Representative Sharice is one of the first smiling faces you’ll see when you walk through our doors! She loves helping both pets and their people feel welcome and cared for. When she’s not assisting at the front desk or lending a hand in the exam room, she’s spending time with her own […]
Karen Blanco
Veterinary Assistant, Operations Coordinator I’ve been working in veterinary medicine since 2007, gaining experience in many different roles within the hospital setting. Growing up on a farm nurtured my lifelong love for animals of all kinds — from the smallest critters to my personal favorites, the majestic big cats. At home, I share life with […]
Coco Cook
Veterinary Assistant Hi! I’m Coco. I’m a Veterinary Assistant with a big heart for animals of all kinds. I love making pets feel safe, happy, and cared for; whether that means calming a nervous pup, giving extra cuddles, overdosing a kitty with catnip, or helping the clinic team give the best care possible. Everyday with […]
Arianna Caraballo
Lead Surgery Licensed Veterinary Technician Arianna Nicole Caraballo is the lead veterinary technician and surgical nurse at Uptown Paws, with approximately 11 years of clinical experience in veterinary medicine spanning emergency and critical care, general practice, and surgery. She has a niche interest and affinity for emergency critical care, small animal dentistry and anesthesia, and […]
Maddie Buddendorf, DVM
(a.k.a. Dr. B — vet, cat mom, recovering theater kid) Dr. B is the founder of Uptown Paws and the kind of vet who believes medicine should be smart, modern, and full of heart (and a lot of treats). She’s a proud graduate of NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, and after years of city […]
