Dr. Athena Gianopoulos (Dr. G for short) is the founder and owner of Feathers and Fur Animal Hospital. Born and raised in the Bay Area, she grew up dreaming of becoming a veterinarian. Dr. G received her Bachelor’s degree with honors in Psychology from UC Berkeley and went on to earn her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2016. Upon graduating from veterinary school, Dr. G moved to San Diego to work in small animal and exotics general practice. It was during this time she decided to pursue dedicated training in avian medicine and completed a two-year intensive working residency at the The Medical Center For Birds in the Bay Area, under the mentorship of avian specialist Dr. Brian Speer. She intends to pursue board-certification in Avian Medicine in the near future. Because of her unique high-volume training with birds, Dr. G is the only veterinarian in San Diego who can perform advanced imaging diagnostics such as echocardiography and fluoroscopic studies in birds. By 2024, Dr. G plans on offering avian exclusive intensive care and hospitalization services.
One of the greatest joys in veterinary medicine for Dr. G is getting to be a part of the special human-animal bond that people have with their furry and feathered family members! She founded Feathers and Fur Animal Hospital in 2021 with the goal of providing high-quality, compassionate mobile veterinary services to companion animals in San Diego. Seeking to expand her knowledge base so that she could have “more tools in the toolbox” to help her patients, Dr. G studied Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and Acupuncture at Chi University in Florida. She enjoys utilizing both Eastern and Western therapies to achieve the best possible outcomes for her patients.
In early 2023, Dr. G acquired Eastridge Animal Hospital in La Mesa, which is certified by the American Association of Feline Practitioner’s as Cat Friendly, and Fear Free.
Eastridge Animal Hospital has been a legacy veterinary clinic since 1970, originally built and owned by Dr. McKittrick, and then Dr. Reese who developed a canine physical rehabilitation center and cat-exclusive practice. Dr. G is grateful for the opportunity to continue the legacy of providing high quality, compassionate care for companion pets.
Dr. G shares her home with a geriatric teacup chihuahua named Little Dude, domestic pigeon Tofu, and three Amazon parrots, Arthur, Norton, and Pappy.
Cathy, born and raised in San Diego, has always had a passion for working with animals. She earned her Registered Veterinary Technician license in 2016 and has special interests in dentistry and exotic animal medicine. In her free time, she enjoys watching movies and spending time with her fur kids. Cathy’s family includes six dogs (Bella, Ozzy, Leo, Morty, Monroe, and Bebe), a precious kitty cat (Mosa), her mud turtle (Quazi), and several other reptile companions.
Annette is a dedicated professional in the field of veterinary medicine, bringing six years of hands-on experience to her work. With a bachelor’s degree in both Spanish and biology, she has a deep understanding of the complexities of animal health and the importance of clear communication with clients. Annette’s passion for animal care and client service is evident in every interaction she has. She is committed to continuing her education and has recently been accepted to the Registered Veterinary Technician program. At home, Annette shares her space with a bustling menagerie of three huskies, a poodle, two red-eared slider turtles, and a young son. Her love for animals extends beyond the workplace and into every aspect of her life, making her an invaluable asset to any team in the veterinary field.
Godzilla is a 30+ year old female Yellow Naped Amazon parrot, serving as the unofficial mascot of Feathers and Fur Animal Hospital. She was adopted by Dr. G when she was working at a different veterinary hospital in San Diego many years ago. Godzilla had a previous spinal cord injury, rendering her legs unable to perch or walk. She enjoys snacking on edamame and banana and listening to opera music. She says “Hi Godzilla” but mostly makes nonsensical babbling noises. Godzilla is Dr. G’s personal reminder that even against all odds, medical miracles are possible, and that despite severe physical disabilities, a positive attitude can set the tone for a great quality of life.
Education
Dr. Daniela is a 2020 graduate of the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Before veterinary school, she received her Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences at Texas A&M University. As a veterinary student, Dr. Daniela acted as coordinator for the annual Open House during her first 3 years of school. She received her certification in Fear Free practices during her clinical fourth year, which provided her the tools and knowledge to examine, diagnose and treat stressed, fearful and anxious patients.
Experience
Dr. Daniela’s path to becoming a veterinarian started when she was a 14-year old girl asked to select elective courses for the following year – her first year of high school. A description of a course named Animal Science peaked her interest, so she signed up. Fast forward to that fateful Spring semester in which the entire class was taken on a field trip to Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine’s Open House of 2008. Speaking with veterinary students, seeing a variety of new and exotic animals, and developing a strong fascination of science helped young Daniela to realize that this career path was what she wanted to pursue for the rest of her life. Once making that grandiose decision, the rest became history. Despite trial and tribulations, intermingled with moments of doubt, Daniela stayed on the path to becoming a veterinarian. Between sophomore and junior years of high school, she landed her first job as a kennel assistant at a local general veterinary practice. The summer before leaving for university, she worked as a receptionist at the same practice. During her time earning her undergraduate degree, Daniela worked at the front desk of the large animal clinic at her university’s veterinary school as an emergency receptionist. As a veterinary student, she participated in student job programs in which she was able to hone her clinical skills, improve her interpersonal communication and grow her love of veterinary medicine.
Philosophy
Dr. Daniela values teamwork when working with her clients and patients. She advocates for improving client education and growing strong working relationships with her clients. Dr. Daniela believes that the clients should be well informed on their decisions when it comes to caring for their beloved pet.
Family
Dr. Daniela recently moved to California and enjoys exploring the city with her 9-year old Doberman mix, Rocco. She also enjoys reading fiction, spending time outdoors, and going to her Crossfit gym.
Future Goals
Her interests in the field include preventive care, behavior modification, and surgery. Dr. Daniela also speaks fluent Spanish! She hopes to grow a Spanish-speaking clientele.
Tracey is a highly experienced veterinary professional who has been dedicated to the field for over 30 years. Throughout her career, she has focused on providing exceptional care for small animals, avian and exotic species. Her passion for animal welfare has led her to work with some of the most prestigious organizations in the field, including the San Diego Zoo, where she spent almost 10 years as a hospital manager in the department of veterinary services.
In addition to her practical experience, Tracey has been an instructor of veterinary technology at San Diego Mesa College since 1995. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience with the next generation of veterinary professionals and helping them develop the skills they need to excel in the field.
Tracey holds several professional certifications, including Registered Veterinary Technician, Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM), and Society for Human Resource Management – Certified Professional (SHRM-CP). She is also a subject matter expert for the American Association of State Boards, where she serves as an exam writer and reviewer, and regularly participates in speaker panels to advocate for the role of the RVT.
Tracey’s commitment to the field of veterinary medicine extends beyond the United States, as she has previously served as an international member of the South African Veterinary Council ensuring veterinary and para veterinary programs meet educational standards. Throughout her career, she has remained dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest research, techniques, and best practices in the field, and she is passionate about mentoring and guiding the next generation of veterinary professionals.
Anna is a Client Care Representative with a deep-rooted passion for veterinary medicine. Since 2017, she has been working in the field, with a focus in emergency care. Anna thrives in high-pressure situations and finds fulfillment in helping save and improve the lives of pets.
Beyond her professional life, Anna enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors, particularly with her four dogs: Bo, Oliver, Oso, and Hans Solo. She also has a love for boba, always seeking out new flavors to indulge in.
With her dedication, empathy, and extensive experience in emergency medicine, Anna is an invaluable member of any veterinary team. Her genuine love for animals and commitment to their well-being ensure top-notch care for furry companions and their owners.
Stefanya is a dedicated veterinary assistant with a passion for avian medicine and small senior dogs. She has been in veterinary medicine since 2020 and completed a vet assisting program in 2019. Stefanya aspires to become a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) and enjoys caring for her Chihuahua, poodle, two cockatiels, and five chickens. In her free time, she loves reading, indulging in hot Cheetos, and sipping coffee. Stefanya’s unwavering commitment to animal welfare shines through in her work and personal life.
Viktoreja is a compassionate individual who discovered her passion for veterinary medicine six years after graduating from college and obtaining her Registered Veterinary Technician license. She has always had a deep love for animals and finds immense joy in caring for them. When she’s not attending to her furry patients, Viktoreja enjoys immersing herself in books, indulging in her favorite TV shows, and spending quality time with her husband and their beloved four-legged companions. Their home is filled with the playful presence of Kevin, an affectionate cat, Spencer, a loyal golden retriever, and Murphy, an adorable puggle.
