Rebecca Davies, DVM
Medical Director

Dr Rebecca Davies believes strong communication is the key to understanding pets’ lives. It’s how she provides the best preventive care and treatment.

She uses Fear Free techniques, treats, and positive reinforcement to ensure pets feel at ease during check-ups. She knows that when clients and pets are comfortable, she can learn about the issues affecting pets, assess lifestyle and behavioral patterns, and find the best treatment plan.

Dr Davies takes the time to teach clients about better pet dental health. If a pet needs it, she specializes in treating painful and infected teeth. She is also interested in cytology.

Dr Davies participates in continuing education and often attends national conferences. She received her Biology degree at the University of Texas at Austin. She earned her DVM at Texas A&M University.

In her free time, Dr Davies spends time cooking with her family and enjoying the outdoors. She has six pets of her own: dogs Doc and Miss Piggy and cats Beaux, Annie, Kiwi, and CeCi.

Shakkal (she/her) brings her positive energy and deep background with people and their pets to her role as Hospital Manager. Before this, she was the original Resort Supervisor of Firehouse Pet Resort in Round Rock, a role she built and grew from the ground up. Shakkal began her career in veterinary medicine as a vet tech. 

As Hospital Manager, Shakkal uses her leadership skills to guide and support the team who cares for your pets. She is trained in Fear Free techniques that help calm cats and dogs. Her experience helps clients and patients feel supported during their visits, and she passes her knowledge to her team.

Shakkal is a native Texan. She earned a degree in Animal Science from Texas State University. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her fiancé and their beautiful daughter, Eliyah, hanging out with family and friends, eating out, dancing, watching movies, and volunteering to give back in her community. Shakkal grew up with dogs and now has a soft spot for cats, thanks to her first cat, Spotzy.

Sean Quintana, DVM
Veterinarian

Dr Sean Quintana’s three pillars for ideal veterinary care are partnership, transparency, and education. He partners with clients to create plans designed for each pet’s unique needs and aims to explain the “why” behind a treatment or test.

Clients appreciate his ability to explain complicated problems. Dr Quintana enjoys teaching about lab work, vaccinations, and preventive medications so pets can live a happy and healthy life. He also uses Fear Free tactics to create a stress-free experience for patients.

Dr Quintana has a special interest in animal behavior, especially after behavior modification helped his own dog, Moose (a boxer/Lab mix). He attends continuing education classes to stay up to date on veterinary specialties.

Dr Quintana received a BS in Biochemistry from Oklahoma State University and earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Texas A&M University. On weekends, he spends time with friends and family, exercises, and loves college football. He is partial to dogs, as their unconditional love and loyalty is unmatched by any other creature.

Betsy Garza, DVM
Veterinarian

Dr Betsy Garza takes time to understand each pet’s unique needs. She provides lots of treats while working with pets to ensure they stay comfortable and happy. Clients appreciate Dr Garza’s approachable personality and thorough check-ups. She explains the importance of routine visits to keep pets healthy. She collaborates with her clients, developing the best treatment plan for each pet.

To keep her skills current, Dr Garza attends continuing education classes and reviews current research. Because veterinary medicine is always changing, she follows trends in the field and collaborates with other doctors. She is proficient in advanced soft tissue surgery and routine procedures. Dr Garza goes above and beyond to manage her patient’s pain and ensure comfort at all life stages.

Dr Garza received her business degree from Texas A&M Business School. She then attended Concordia University and the University of Texas for Pre-Vet studies. She earned her DVM from Texas A&M, where she was president of her veterinary class, in the Phi Zeta honor society, and graduated at the top of her class. When not working, Dr Garza enjoys spending time with her husband Greg, her children Wells and Evelyn, and her Labrador Retriever Rhodes.

Tori Tran, DVM
Veterinarian

Dr Tori Tran is compassionate, empathetic, and believes in teamwork. She enjoys working closely with clients to discover each pet’s unique needs. Dr Tran is transparent about all options for each case and supports clients as they choose the best option. She loves collaborating with clients and getting to know each patient who comes into the hospital.

Dr Tran attended the University of Miami before getting her DVM at Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr Tran traveled to China to be certified in Veterinary Acupuncture through the Chi Institute. She loves incorporating those skills and techniques along with western veterinary medicine.

She has experience with exotics (rabbits, ferrets, reptiles, birds, and more), in addition to dogs and cats. She is currently working towards her Fear Free certification.

When not at the hospital, Dr Tran likes to stay active, go horseback riding, and spend time with her husband and baby. Otherwise, she can be found snuggling with her two rescues, Gatsby (Siamese mix), and Ace (three-legged Border Collie mix), as they cheer on the University of Miami football.

Brianna Demers, DVM
Veterinarian

Dr Brianna Demers (she/her) is a relationship builder who is passionate about fostering the human/animal bond and loves connecting with people and their pets. Dr Demers works with clients to develop a personalized plan that delivers optimal care for every patient.

Dr Demers knows veterinary visits can be scary for pets. So, she uses treats, cuddles, a soothing voice, and a pet’s body language to gauge their comfort level and adjust her approach. These techniques calm the most skeptical of pets.

Her passions include preventive care, internal medicine, and working with exotic companion pets. Dr Demers has traveled to a variety of locations to learn, volunteer, and offer her expertise: Nicaragua to care for livestock, cats, and dogs; South Africa to work with ranchers and conservationists; and, Florida to assist with manatees during annual health assessments.

She graduated from the University of Kentucky and Auburn College of Veterinary Medicine, both with magna cum laude honors. Dr Demers loves exploring Austin’s food, music, and nature. She has two chinchillas, brothers Guillermo (aka Gizmo) and Boba Fett. She also fostered and adopted a frisky, lovable Abyssinian cat named Bartok Marcel.

Ashlea Vongkhamphra, DVM
Veterinarian

Client service is at the core of everything Dr Ashlea Vongkhamphra (she/they) does. She finds joy in helping pet parents with their concerns and is passionate about providing a memorable, calm, and educational experience.

Clients appreciate that she is thorough and strives to find the best solutions for their pet’s needs. Dr Vongkhamphra is always happy to explain her process and give recommendations so clients can make informed decisions.

Dr Vongkhamphra enjoys working with exotic animals including birds, reptiles, and pocket pets. She is also Fear Free certified, which means she edits her approach to each pet based on breed and unique needs. For example, she’ll sit on the floor with dogs and use quiet spaces to keep cats calm and comfortable. Dr Vongkhamphra also has an interest in cardiology and anesthesia.

Dr Vongkhamphra received her Animal Science degree from West Texas A&M and her DVM from Texas A&M. She enjoys spending time with her family and exploring Austin. When it’s not blazing hot, she likes being outdoors and hiking. She has two dogs: Rosie, a chihuahua, and Snoopy, a rescue beagle. Her two cats are Luna and Emerie.

Glenn Haberle, BVM&S (Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Science)
Veterinarian

Maria
Veterinary Technician Supervisor

Maria understands that each patient is different, so she takes the time to recognize what each patient needs to feel comfortable and secure. Her goal is to ensure the best possible care and wellbeing of each pet. Clients appreciate her patient demeanor, positive attitude, and sense of humor. She is an active learner and always seeks opportunities to improve herself and her ability to provide care. Her goal is to be one day be a veterinarian.

Maria recently received her undergraduate degree in Animal Science from the University of Wisconsin Madison. She brings to Firehouse her experience working in large animal hospitals, emergency rooms, critical care units, shelters, and wildlife rehabilitation. After working with Dane County Humane Society to care for ill, injured, and orphaned wildlife, she found a passion for caring for all animals, but especially wildlife. She shares her home with Mufasa, her rescue Himalayan/Maine Coon mix; Mort, a rescue pug; and Nagaina, a Kenyan Sand Boa.

Alixandra
Veterinary Technician

Alixandra understands pets, owners, and vet staff should be comfortable and secure. She uses Fear Free techniques for this reason. Her patient approach to pet care allows her to provide specific care for each patient.

Alixandra continues to learn new skills to better care for patients and clients. Currently, she researches advances in veterinary care through YouTube videos and informational websites. A self-proclaimed cat lady, she loves all cats and is able to assist with scared or grumpy cats.

Outside of work, Alixandra enjoys doing puzzles and going out to eat, especially for brunch. She also enjoys spending time with Nemo and Nashville (her bonded pair of cats).

Celina enjoys working with clients and their pets to create individualized plans for each pet’s unique needs. She understands that veterinary visits can be scary, so she adjusts her care to help everyone feel comfortable. She is Fear Free certified. Celina loves learning new skills and techniques so that she can continue to provide the best care for all the patients who come to Firehouse. A self-proclaimed cat lover, Celina worked as a Cat Adoption Counselor with Austin Pets Alive. She has two rescue cats of her own: Ajani and Maia. Ajani has anxiety and takes medication to help him feel more comfortable; Maia has asthma and needs to use an inhaler daily. Working with her cats has given Celina worthwhile experience in helping cats at the clinic who may have unique health or personality needs.

Celina graduated from Austin Community College, with her Veterinary Technology degree and is one of our Licensed Veterinary Technicians. She also received her bachelor’s in psychology from Baylor University. Her hobbies include reading romance novels and playing video games.

Shellie
Veterinary Technician

Shellie is a compassionate and empathetic advocate for each patient’s wellbeing. She is Fear Free certified and uses Fear Free techniques to keep pets comfortable during their visits. She reads a pet’s body language and adjusts her approach to keep visits fun and stress-free. Her primary goal is to keep pets happy and healthy by collaborating with pet owners. Shellie volunteers with Austin Pets Alive, working with small dogs who have behavior or medical issues.

Shellie has a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication and a Master of Fine Arts in Writing. She is currently enrolled at Austin Community College to get a degree in Veterinary Technology. She has a soft spot for cats thanks to her two rescue Siamese cats, Koda and Albus. Outside of work and school, Shellie enjoys reading, playing video games, and taking cycling and barre classes.

Grant
Veterinary Technician

Grant’s goal is to ensure pets have a relaxing and stress-free visit. Clients appreciate his cheerful and hardworking attitude. He builds lasting relationships with clients and pets through his high level of care and commitment to keeping everyone safe and comfortable. Grant has worked in the animal field since 2022, including working at Firehouse Pet Resort. He enjoys learning new skills to help him provide the best care. He always has treats and affection to give to pets as well.

Grant has fostered kittens since he was young and has a soft spot for all cats, especially Siamese. While he currently doesn’t have any pets of his own, he shares his home with a corgi/Belgin Malinois mix, a scruffy mix breed dog, and a Russian blue cat. In his free time, he enjoys playing pickleball, drawing, playing video games, and discovering new music.

Nicole
Veterinary Technician

Relationships are very important to Nicole. She keeps an open line of communication and collaborates with clients to keep veterinary visits transparent and stress-free. She loves getting to know clients and their pets. Nicole pays special attention to each pet’s individual needs. By using a Fear Free approach and reading body language, she keeps pets as comfortable and secure as possible.

When not helping pets live healthy, happy lives, Nicole enjoys roller skating, going on nature walks, and thrifting. She also likes to read and try out new restaurants or activities. Her walking partner is Cinnamon, her American pit bull terrier.

Zoe is a compassionate and knowledgeable Veterinary Technician with a passion for client education and building strong relationships with pet parents. She is a 2025 graduate from the ACC Veterinary Technician Program. She is currently working towards her Veterinary Technician license. Zoe has a special interest in exotic pets like reptiles and small mammals; she’s especially known for her love of hamsters.

In 2024, Zoe became Fear Free Certified for cats, dogs, and birds. She focuses on making every visit as stress-free as possible. She takes the time to explain medical care in a way that helps clients feel confident and comfortable making decisions for their pets.

Outside of work, Zoe recues and fosters animals of all kinds. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, making pottery and competing in Super Smash Bros. tournaments.

Tavia is passionate about meeting the people and pets who come into Firehouse. She loves creating lasting relationships with animals. Her goal is to help patients live healthy, happy lives. Tavia is always happy to explain treatments to clients and educate them on how to care for their pets after their appointment.

Tavia graduated from the Vet Tech Institute of Houston and is studying to become a credentialed veterinary technician. Originally from Waco, she is excited to explore the Austin area. Outside of work, she enjoys playing volleyball, doing arts and crafts, and completing DIY projects around her house. She has a senior shorthaired cat named Lucy Liu (“Lulu”).

As a Veterinary Technician with a passion for general practice and diagnostics, Gauge brings both knowledge and heart to every appointment. He has a calm, thoughtful approach. He takes the time to listen closely to pet parents’ concerns and explains treatment plans in a way that makes sense. Clients often appreciate his patience, especially when working with nervous or anxious pets, and value how thoroughly he communicates their pet’s needs.

Although he originally went to school to become a physical therapy technician, a temporary job in veterinary medicine quickly turned into a career. He realized the field offered not only hands-on experience but has a variety of other possibilities. The decision to stay in vet med was easy. What he enjoys most about his role is the team-driven effort that goes into helping patients feel better, whether it’s getting them back to health or helping them thrive long-term. He loves the collaborative side of vet med and the sense of purpose that comes from making a real difference in the lives of both animals and their people.

Gauge has a 9-year-old yellow Lab mix (with tons of energy!) who was originally a stray. His pup now lives with Gauge’s parents to stay close to his dog sibling. In his free time, Gauge stays active with weightlifting, hiking, basketball, and tennis. He also enjoys playing guitar, billiards, and hopping on Xbox when he has a chance to unwind.

While he works with all small animals, he admits to being a little biased for puppies. So, puppy visits are his favorite! Dogs will always have a special place in his heart. However, he enjoys the cat patients too!

For as long as she can remember, True has had a deep love for animals. Growing up in a neighborhood full of strays, she quickly became the go-to for lost or injured pets. Her path was set in motion after finding a very sick kitten on the way home from school and discovering that caring for pets would be her life’s work.

True is currently a student at Penn Foster, working towards a degree in Veterinary Technology. True is passionate about creating a calm, supportive environment for both pets and their people. She uses clear, natural communication and full transparency to help pet parents feel informed and involved. With her patients, she leads with compassion and treats every animal as if they’ve been part of her family from the start. She is hopeful that familiarity will help ease fear and build trust, even in stressful situations.

She finds inspiration in the fact that there’s always more to learn in veterinary medicine. Each day brings a chance to grow and the opportunity to help enhance a pet’s life. While she’s had many rewarding moments in her career, she’s especially proud of the day she helped save a cat in critical condition. She acted quickly, coordinated with the doctor, and worked with the family to find a financial solution that made lifesaving care possible. Clients often tell her that her kindness and energy make a difference, and she carries this intention, believing that a single positive interaction can change someone’s entire day.

Outside the clinic, True stays sharp by observing and learning from her own pets: Mulan, a 4-year-old calico/tabby mix; Maple, a 3-year-old red-nosed pit bull; Marshmallow, a 1-year-old flame point Siamese; and Midnight, her 11-month-old “void kitty.” She also loves gaming, writing, singing, swimming, bowling, and hitting up the arcade whenever she gets the chance.

Her favorite animals to work with are cats and dogs because they’ve always been such a big part of her life. As for the best thing about working at Firehouse, it truly doesn’t get better than working with a group of kind, open-minded people.

Abel
Client Service Coordinator

Abel’s positive attitude, sympathetic nature, and upbeat energy help him connect with clients. He believes communication and honesty are key when helping clients feel comfortable with their pets’ care, so he makes himself available to answer any questions clients may have. As someone who values education, he is constantly learning how to improve his care for pets and how to anticipate clients’ needs. He spends time studying changing veterinarian trends and learning from his peers. Abel strives to find the best solution for any situation, working with clients to create the best possible plan.

Abel studied Business and Marketing at Austin Community College. On the weekends, he likes to play games with his friends, relax with his family, or hang out with his four dogs: Loki, Sakura, Kiba, and Ruby.

Tia believes in the importance of the human/animal bond. She enjoys teaching clients about ways to help improve their pets’ health and happiness. Clients and pets love her upbeat, positive attitude.

Tia treats each patient like her own pet, providing the best possible care. She enjoys helping pets through surgical procedures. She has a soft spot for feline patients.

To keep her skills up-to-date, she attends training classes and learns new techniques online.

Tia shares her home with two pets: a cattle dog named Wednesday and an orange tabby cat named Jack. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends when she is not helping pets at the hospital.

Mark
Client Service Coordinator

Mark goes the extra mile to ensure clients and patients are comfortable, from before their appointment even begins. A true problem-solver, he will find a solution for clients’ questions or concerns. Mark educates himself with veterinary best practices. Clients appreciate his helpful and friendly demeanor.

Mark attended Le Cordon Bleu Texas Culinary Academy, where he received his BA in Culinary Arts. When not working, he loves to play board games; he and his husband are huge fans of Gloomhaven. He shares his heart with Rocket (a Lab/Great Pyrenees mix) and Chelsea (a Chihuahua).

Kelly
Client Service Coordinator

Kelly’s efficient and dependable approach to client and patient care helps make veterinary visits smooth and stress-free. She ensures clients have the perfect place to wait with their pets and that appointments stay on schedule. She is always happy to answer questions and provide more information for clients. Kelly is working on her Fear Free certification.

In her free time, Kelly loves to get lost in a good book. Her pets include Phoenix, a dalmatian/border collie mix; Van Helsing a pit bull/Great Dane mix; Ember, a boxer mix; and two cats, Amara Wild Rose and Olivia Cupcake.

As a Client Service Coordinator, Autumn brings nearly two years of veterinary reception experience and a deep commitment to compassionate client care. She also spent nine months working in a shelter environment, gaining valuable experience in fast-paced, high-volume animal care. Her background in customer service makes her an expert at building trust and easing client concerns, always working to make every interaction smooth, supportive, and informed.

Whether it’s listening to a pet parent’s concerns or ensuring appointments are scheduled with care, she’s often the first friendly face clients see. She works hard to make every visit feel personal. For her, the most exciting part of the job is hearing stories about clients’ beloved pets and being part of a team that supports their health and happiness.

In the clinic, she helps pets feel at ease by welcoming them warmly and getting them into exam rooms quickly to reduce stress and limit time spent in the lobby. She’s passionate about staying up to date on the latest advancements in preventative care, especially after navigating heartworm treatment with her own pet.

At home, she’s surrounded by her four wonderful dogs: Lillie (a 1-year-old Cattle Dog/Lab mix), Gillian (an 8-year-old Pit Mix), Marlie (a 4-year-old Shepherd mix), and Charmaine (a 4-year-old Maltese mix). Each one is part of the family and a big reason she remains inspired in her role every day. She is a lifelong German Shepherd fan, she admires their intelligence, loyalty, and rich history.

In her free time, you’ll find her reading, taking photos, or fishing—activities that help her recharge and stay grounded. “When asked what makes Firehouse special, she says it’s the way the entire team genuinely treats every client and pet like family.