Meet The Team
Roberto J. Marchan, DVM
Originally from Puerto Rico, Dr. Marchan graduated from the University of Florida with a B.S. in Animal Science and Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. He completed his clinical training at the University of Missouri.
Dr. Marchan began his professional career practicing in Westchester County, New York and later moved to California with his wife who began her veterinary surgical residency program. Dr. Marchan spent two years as an emergency veterinarian at VCA All Care in Fountain Valley, California, followed by eight years at VCA Lakewood in Cerritos prior to becoming the owner of Animal Hospital of South Bay. Dr. Marchan enjoys treating cats and dogs from young to old. He was trained by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society. His special interests are internal medicine, endoscopy, acupuncture, and dentistry.
When not working at the clinic, Dr. Marchan enjoys spending time with his wife, Dr. Denise Bierens, two sons, Liam & Luca, and four pets: , one cat named Pedro and three Chihuahuas named Lola, Bella, and Biggie Smalls. Dr. Marchan enjoys being involved in the local community. Animal Hospital of South Bay is a proud sponsor of the Manhattan Beach Youth Athletics and is also partnered with the local SPCA LA office performing routine surgeries and treating sick, injured, and/or abused animals.
Denise Bierens, DVM
(Practice Limited to Surgery) Originally from Canada, Dr. Bierens grew up loving dogs, cats, and horses. She was a competitive equine dressage rider traveling all over North America. She also worked as a veterinary assistant at her local veterinary hospital.
Dr. Bierens graduated from Washington State University with a B.S. in Animal Science and Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Bierens completed her clinical training at the University of Missouri and began her professional career in small animal general practice in New York.
Dr. Bierens subsequently moved to Southern California to complete a three year residency in Small Animal Surgery at VCA West LA. Since completing her residency, Dr. Bierens has continued to work at referral surgical centers (VCA West LA, California Animal Hospital, and VCA All Care) as well as in general practice (VCA Lakewood).
Outside of professional practice, Dr. Bierens enjoys spending time with her husband, Dr. Marchan, two sons, and four pets. She also enjoys playing golf and painting.
Associate Veterinarians
Katherine Gilman, DVM
Dr. Gilman has been an established, well respected Veterinarian in the South Bay for over two decades. She treats all pets, including cats, dogs, rabbits, exotics and avians.
Dr. Gilman was raised in northern California and completed her bachelor’s degree in biology at the University of California at Santa Cruz. She graduated from Colorado State University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1999.
Outside the hospital, she enjoys horseback riding, hiking, reading and spending time with her family.
Sandra Kranz, DVM
Dr Kranz has been a part of Animal Hospital of South Bay for over 2 years. Dr. Kranz has completed a small animal surgery residency and is now available on Wednesdays, Friday, and Saturdays.
Dr. Kranz has a special interest in veterinary soft tissue and orthopedic surgery..
Justine Walker, DVM
Dr. Walker graduated from the University of Davis and is available Wednesday through Saturday. Dr. Walker is also fluent in Japanese.
Andrew Arriola, DVM
Dr. Andrew Arriola, DVM, is a Torrance, CA native, where he continues to serve his community with unmatched dedication and expertise.
His love for veterinary medicine began at Cal Poly Pomona and was further honed at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, thanks to valuable mentorships like the one with Dr. Kathy Gilman, one of our Veterinarians at our Rolling Hills location.
Dr. Arriola crafts an environment where pets and their owners feel instantly at ease. With a special enthusiasm for surgery, he ensures pet owners are always in the loop about their furry friend’s health.
His dedication to animal well-being resonates in his daily interactions and pivotal decisions. For Dr. Arriola, the Veterinarian’s Oath isn’t just words on paper; it’s a guiding principle in every aspect of his practice.
A member of the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association (SCVMA), he stays updated with the latest in veterinary science. His communication style? Transparent, compassionate, and backed by the most recent veterinary insights.
When he’s not at the clinic, Dr. Arriola enjoys time with his cat, Smudge, and energetic Siberian husky, Akela. He finds balance in an active lifestyle, hitting the gym, and practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
As for the future? Dr. Arriola is excited about what’s on the horizon for veterinary medicine, eagerly awaiting innovations that ensure even better care for our four-legged companions.
Eliana Gonzalez, DVM
Dr. Eliana Gonzalez, DVM, is originally from Inglewood, CA, and now calls Redondo Beach, CA, her home.
Her passion for animals was ignited at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine and further nurtured by mentorships with seasoned veterinarians early in her career.
Dr. Gonzalez creates a welcoming atmosphere where both pets and their owners can feel comfortable. She has a soft spot for cats and especially enjoys working up internal medicine and cardiology cases.
Her commitment to patient care shines through in stories like that of a senior dog who came to her on the brink of euthanasia. With a thorough examination and a caring heart, Dr. Gonzalez identified a treatable liver issue that transformed the dog’s life.
As an active member of both the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association and American Veterinary Medical Association, Dr. Gonzalez stays current with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine. Her approach to communicating with pet owners is compassionate and informed, rooted in the latest scientific research.
Outside of work, Dr. Gonzalez enjoys the company of family, friends and her delightful pets, including three cats, a leopard gecko, and a lively cockatiel. She finds joy and balance in live music, baking, hot yoga, and traveling.
Dr. Gonzalez is excited about the future of veterinary medicine, anticipating advancements that will continue to enhance the health and comfort of our cherished pets.
Elizabeth Sevy, DVM
Bio to come
Team Managers
Michelle
Hospital Manager
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Michelle: Every day we help save a pet’s life.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Michelle: Chameleon
AHSB: What would your name be?
Michelle: Carl
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Michelle: Balance and diplomacy
Erika
Office Manager
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Erika: The animals are the best part of my day.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Erika: Honey Badger
AHSB: What would your name be?
Erika: Macaroni
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Erika: Insane Multitasker
Dana
Inventory Manager
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Dana: The day I got my dog who was found in the trash. He is 14 years old now.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Dana: A cat.
AHSB: What would your name be?
Dana: Azriel
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Dana: Getting kitties to eat when they are sick.
Team Leads
Maribel
Technician
Supervisor
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Maribel: We operated on a lion one time! It was scary AND exciting.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Maribel: Tortoise
AHSB: What would your name be?
Maribel: Charlie
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Maribel: Showing Compassion
Brittney
Technician Assistant Supervisor
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Brittney: The day I got hired!
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Brittney: King Cobra
AHSB: What would your name be?
Brittney: The Bite Master
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Brittney: My memory! I remember all pets and owner’s names
Melissa
Lead
Reception
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Melissa: It’s always a good day when you have successful surgeries.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Melissa: A cat!
AHSB: What would your name be?
Melissa: Boo
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Melissa: Saving Lives!
Reception
Daniela
Receptionist
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Daniela: We got a litter of 7 puppies during the last appointments of the day. It was a great way to end the day!
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Daniela: A cat!
AHSB: What would your name be?
Daniela: Pistachio
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Daniela: Multitasking!
Estrella
Receptionist
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Estrella: It’s always a good day when you have multiple puppies come into the clinic.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Estrella: Golden Retriever
AHSB: What would your name be?
Estrella: Squirrel
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Estrella: Patience
Raquel
Receptionist
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Raquel: Having an “exotic” come in
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Raquel: A snake
AHSB: What would your name be?
Raquel: Pepperoncini
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Raquel: Remembering Everything.
Vanessa
Receptionist
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Vanessa: I helped stimulate puppies as they were being born.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Vanessa: A spoiled little Monkey!
AHSB: What would your name be?
Vanessa: Chiquita
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Vanessa: Empathy
Kat
Receptionist
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Kat: I was able to foster 2 puppies for a rescue.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Kat: A bird
AHSB: What would your name be?
Kat: Lucky
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Kat: Compassion
Richard
Receptionist
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Richard: Seeing animals every day
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Richard: An eagle
AHSB: What would your name be?
Richard: Siphon
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Richard: Keeping a happy face even under pressure
Registered Veterinary Technicians
Mimi
Registered Veterinary Technician
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Mimi: The day I passed my exam!
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Mimi: A cat.
AHSB: What would your name be?
Mimi: Millie
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Mimi: Knowledge
Veronica
Registered Veterinary Technician
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Veronica: Every day is nice because you go home knowing you helped an animal.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Veronica: A horse
AHSB: What would your name be?
Veronica: Catalina
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Veronica: Patience
Victor
Registered Veterinary Technician
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Victor: I use to teach, and a student’s dog got out and got hit by a car and we repaired it
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Victor: An Octopus
AHSB: What would your name be?
Victor: Octavius
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Victor: I can read pets
Technicians
Demetrio
Technician
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Demitrio: Every day that I wake up and see a dog or a cat!
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Demitrio: A dog – Shepard mix!
AHSB: What would your name be?
Demitrio: Bobby
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Demitrio: Empathy and Kindness
Jose
Technician
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Jose: All the days are good! I love animals.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Jose: A Doberman
AHSB: What would your name be?
Jose: Dallas
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Jose: I try to make sure the pets know what we are doing to them
Maria
Technician
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Maria: Working on interesting cases, I’ve never seen before.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Maria: A feisty cat!
AHSB: What would your name be?
Maria: Miss-chief
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Maria: I’m always on the move!
Tatyanna
Technician
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Tatyana: Seeing patients I’ve known for a while.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Tatyana: A cat
AHSB: What would your name be?
Tatyana: Chicken Nugget
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Tatyana: Detail Orientated
Maya
Technician
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Maya: Any day I get kisses from puppies.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Maya: A Doberman
AHSB: What would your name be?
Maya: Marlo
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Maya: Baby Talk
Victoria
Technician
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Victoria: We had a parvo puppy who was VERY sick. We kept the puppy here and I was in the ISO ward EVERY day and it made a full recovery! Seeing it grow into a beautiful dog was great.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Victoria: A horse
AHSB: What would your name be?
Victoria: Buttercup
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Victoria: Multitasking
Robert
Technician
Interview coming soon.
Monica
Technician
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Monica: When pet owners show their appreciation for you.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Monica: Beagle
AHSB: What would your name be?
Monica: Boomer
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Monica: Boosting work morale
Robert
Technician
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Robert: Feeling appreciated, trusted and respected in my position.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Robert: Belgian Malinois
AHSB: What would your name be?
Robert: Thor
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Robert: Teaching and sharing my experience
Technician Assistants
Alisan
Technician Assistant
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Alisan: Helping all the animals.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Alisan: A dog
AHSB: What would your name be?
Alisan: Ali
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Alisan: Cleaning! I’m a clean freak.
Jailene
Technician Assistant
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Jailene: There was a cute puppy who came in and he had parvo. He was so cute and went home 3 days later. I felt so good after that recovery.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Jailene: A bird!
AHSB: What would your name be?
Jailene: Beagle
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Jailene: Knowing what the pet needs!
Michelle
Technician Assistant
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Michelle:
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Michelle: Bunny
AHSB: What would your name be?
Michelle: Bella
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Michelle: Reading Pets Minds
Tajanae
Technician Assistant
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Tajanae: My favorite patient came in on a Wednesday, because it’s my Friday.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Tajanae: A dog
AHSB: What would your name be?
Tajanae: Puppy
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Tajanae: Positivity.
Leslie
Technician Assistant
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Leslie: Feeling like part of the team
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Leslie: A Horse
AHSB: What would your name be?
Leslie: Katrina
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Leslie: Helping pets feel better
Yazmine
Technician Assistant
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Yazmine: Every day is good.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Yazmine: a dog
AHSB: What would your name be?
Yazmine: Athena
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Yazmine: Connecting with the Animals
Shaylee
Technician Assistant
AHSB: What was your best day in the profession?
Shaylee: Seeing animals come back for their recheck doing well.
AHSB: If you were a pet, what would you be?
Shaylee: A cat
AHSB: What would your name be?
Shaylee: Pretzel
AHSB: In the clinic, what is your Superpower?
Shaylee: Listening.
Did You Know?
We sponsor the Manhattan Beach Youth Athletics and we also partnered with the local SPCA LA office performing routine surgeries and treating sick, injured, and/or abused cases.
