MEET OUR STAFF
Julie Voltin, DVM, Practice Owner
I have been the owner of Uptown Animal Hospital since 2010 and it has been such a great experience!
I was born and raised in Southern California and currently reside in Signal Hill. I received my bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of California, Santa Barbara and went to Ross University where I obtained my doctorate in veterinary medicine. I have been working in veterinary hospitals since I was 16 years old and I love working with both dogs and cats in all aspects of medicine.
In my spare time I am chasing my little boy, Remy, around and enjoying time with family, Mickey, our dog and Miller, the cat! I also enjoy knitting, reading and quiet time. I look forward to meeting you and your pets and establishing a long healthy relationship with you!
Melina Morris, Client Care Specialist
I have been working at Uptown Animal Hospital since 2005 as a Client Care Specialist.
As the first point of contact for the client and patient I am dedicated to making sure you feel comfortable and welcome. I am also responsible for our prescription diets for your pet’s individual health needs. I enjoy working with our clients and I’m here to support you throughout the treatment process with prompt answers, information and respect.
At Uptown Animal Hospital, my highest priority is a satisfied & well informed owner. You are important to us and you can expect us to go the extra mile for your pet! Superior customer service is the hallmark of Uptown Animal Hospital.
I love working with animals and every day I look forward to coming to work to see our four-legged friends! My pets include two dogs, Sasha and Ori and a cat named Oni.
Det Pe, Client Care Specialist
Hello, my name is Det, pronounced Date. Many moons ago, I attended Hughes Middle School and Poly High School and I would drive by Uptown many times. I remember thinking how exciting and interesting it would be to work at an animal hospital. In 2006, I joined the Uptown team as a Client Care Specialist and have not looked back. I have since learned that the most rewarding experience actually comes from being able to help new or long time pet owners become more well informed about their pet’s needs so that our four legged family members can have a lifetime of health and wellness. I make it my mission to cultivate a cooperative and caring relationship with all our pet owners through timely communication, client education, compassion, integrity, attentiveness, and of course a fundamental love for animals. It will be my pleasure and honor to help you and your pet during every stage of their life!
During my free time, I enjoy cooking, especially trying new recipes from all over the world. I also enjoy watching funny movies at home with my husband, son, and two daughters. We currently have a 2 year old mischievous, but super cute rescue cat, named Bob whom we all adore very much.
Jenn Kim, Client Care Specialist
I joined the Uptown team in September 2020. I have worked in the veterinary field for 15 years. I strive to make sure both the clients and their pets are well cared for. I have a sweet and loving three-legged kitty named Sanji. In my spare time you can find me at the gym or just being lazy and watching movies at home. I look forward to meeting you!
Francesca Alvies, Veterinary Technician
Hi, I’m Francesca
I joined the Uptown team in September 2017. I have worked in the veterinary field as a technician for 8 years. My special interest include making sure all of our patients have adequate care and compassion. I’ve always had a love for animals ever since I can remember and have wanted to help them any way I could. I have 2 rescue dogs and 1 very spoiled cat. In my spare time I enjoy watching movies, hanging out with friends, hiking, or enjoying the day at the dog beach/park.
John Suarez, Veterinary Technician
My passion for animals has allowed me to work in the field for eleven years now. I originally began my career in Colombia, where I’m from, and am continuing my path in the United States of America where I have received intense training and gained experience. I believe that the purpose of taking care of our animals is actually taking care of humanity.
I joined the Uptown Animal Hospital family in 2020 and my compassion for animal well-being is extraordinary. I approach each pet with grace, kindness and tenderness.
My wealth of culture and experience comes from keeping an open mind to possibilities, pushing beyond expectations, setting goals, and becoming a better professional every day.
In my free time you can find me strumming a guitar and singing, practicing and competing in the art of Brazilian Jiujitsu, playing soccer or enjoying a day with my beautiful blue nose pitbull Gunner and the women I fell in love with, my life partner.
Azucena “Susie” Miranda, Veterinary Technician
I started at Uptown as a volunteer in February 2021 and officially joined the team in July. I have learned so much and continue to learn from the great team at Uptown! I have completed my education and obtained an Associate’s degree in the Science of Veterinary Technology. I plan to become a registered vet tech by the end of the year. In my free time, I like to watch movies at home with my 2 cats, Lani and Blue. I look forward to meeting you and your fur babies!
Tammy Mills, Ward Attendant
Hi, I’m Tammy.
I’ve been with Uptown since 1999.
I take great care of the pets that board here, giving each one the attention they need and deserve while they are away from their homes and people. I feed, water, medicate, walk and clean up after them, and I keep a close eye on the animals that are recovering from surgery, as well.
I hold pets for exams by the veterinarians and treatments by the technicians, so that everyone (including the humans) remains safe and unhurt. I make sure to treat all of our clients’ pets the way I would want my own pets treated, so my job also includes dispensing unlimited love and hugs to them!
