Meet Our Team

Arik Vishnevsky

DVM, Owner

My name is Arik Vishnevsky and I am both the owner and practicing veterinarian at Central Vaughan Animal Hospital. Since graduating from the The Ontario Veterinary College, I have worked in two large-scale 24/7 animal hospitals in the GTA. During this time, I gained a tremendous amount of veterinary experience including managing intensive care patients, carrying out complex surgeries, performing dental treatments, and mentoring both veterinary students and veterinary technicians.

I am passionate about my profession and strive to establish a strong rapport with clients. I am a keen believer in collaborating with clients in making decisions that will benefit their pets and align with their lifestyles.

I feel privileged to have the opportunity to practice in this wonderful community of Thornhill, which I call home. I can also provide services in Russian and Hebrew.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my wife, our two young children, and our mini poodle Charlie.
Please feel free to stop by anytime with your little critter to say hello and check us out! We love visitors.

I look forward to taking care of your pet,

Dr. Arik Vishnevsky

Julia Haykin

DVM

I graduated from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in 2021, fulfilling a lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian. I am dedicated to delivering compassionate and thorough care to every patient while building strong relationships with their owners.

My approach to animal health is holistic, focusing on both preventive care and personalized treatment plans that meet each pet’s specific needs. I am committed to staying current with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine, ensuring my patients receive the best possible care.

Outside of the clinic, I enjoy spending time with my Bernese Mountain Dog, Bailey, and my leopard gecko, Morph. When I’m not caring for animals, I love camping and exploring the outdoors.

Dr. Julia Haykin

Melissa

Lead Registered Veterinary Technician

Choosing to become an RVT was a very simple career choice for me and one I’m glad I made every day. Working with animals is the most rewarding work there is. So much so that even with my time off I enjoy visiting and volunteering at animal sanctuaries around the world. My favorite so far is the Elephant Sanctuary in northern Thailand.

Elena

Veterinary Technician

I am a passionate veterinary professional with a journey that began overseas after I graduated from veterinary school, with a deep-seated love for animals and the joy of becoming a practicing veterinarian. My career initially unfolded in small animal clinics, honing my skills and building a foundation in the field. The turning point came when I moved to Canada, where I transitioned to working in a vet tech role. I currently thrive in my role at Central Vaughan Animal Hospital, where I get to live out my lifelong aspiration of working closely with animals.

Beyond the clinic, I am blessed with a bustling household – a loving husband, wonderful kids, two dogs, and four rescued cats. My commitment to the well-being of animals extends beyond the workplace, as I enjoy spending my free time engaged in outdoor activities like camping and hiking with my family and faithful canine companions. As a vet tech, I am not just fulfilling a profession; I am living my dream and contributing to the welfare of animals in a fulfilling and meaningful way.

Avital

Animal Care Attendant – On Leave

As someone who has loved animals their whole life, I enjoy coming to work every day and learning something new! Cats and dogs have always been a part of my life, and I’ve always been surrounded by them.

During the COVID 19 pandemic, I began working with animals and fell in love with the profession. I knew I wanted to continue working with our little friends when I arrived in Canada from Israel. While walking in nature, I appreciate seeing Canada through the eyes of my dog Luna and my cat Dimka.

Central Vaughan Animal Hospital. Logo is a brown dog outline behind a tan cat outline

Destiny

Client Services – On Leave

Working at CVAH gives me the ability to do the two things I’m most passionate about: helping animals and helping people. Ever since I was younger I was intrigued by animals. I just loved how everyone single one was so unique and cute in their own special ways. Through my years as being a customer service representative, I understand the demand and stress that comes with veterinary appointments. I do my very best to make every phone call, and appointment as easy as possible. My goal is to make sure you leave with a smile or at least feeling better about your pets needs. I look forward to seeing all of the patients and watching them all grow!

In my free time I enjoy spending time with my husband and daughter along with our 6 fur babies; Athena, Hera, Neeko, Theo, Tiny and Baby. We enjoy watching movies, going out to parks and trails.

Iryna

Client Services

I joined CVAH team shortly after moving from Ukraine to Canada. I have only been working in the veterinary industry for almost one year but have always had a passion for animals.

My favorite thing about working in the field is building long-term relationships with each client and patient and giving them the best care possible. If you prefer to speak Russian/Ukrainian, you will most likely talk to me.

Outside of work, I like to spend most of my time with family and my 2 cats Masik and Grey!

Veronika

Client Services

Ever since I can remember, helping animals has been my passion. I’ve always felt a deep connection with every pet I meet, never passing one by without a smile or a moment of affection. When I joined CVAH, everything just clicked—the team, the environment, and the mission of caring for pets—it truly felt like home. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is helping pet owners find solutions during challenging times. At home, I have a kitty named Simba, who completely stole my heart with his big, gorgeous eyes. Bringing him home wasn’t planned, but I couldn’t resist. When you come to our clinic, I’ll be the first to greet you, and I do everything I can to ensure you and your furry friends feel safe and comfortable from the very start!