Meet the Urgent Care Team
Kristen Krisulevicz, DVM, Urgent Care
Originally from Larksville, Pennsylvania, Dr. Kristen Krisulevicz graduated from Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2011. Before her time at MSU, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Allegheny College in 2007. Returning to her roots in Pittsburgh after veterinary school, Dr. K pursued a small animal rotating internship at Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center, where she discovered her passion for the dynamic atmosphere of emergency medicine. For the following nine years, she dedicated herself to this fast-paced field. Dr. K briefly transitioned to general practice for a year before accepting a position at Safe Haven Veterinary Hospital as an urgent care veterinarian, eager to continue her service to the pets of Pittsburgh in an urgent care capacity. Dr. K is particularly interested in treating urinary obstructions, toxicities, and ocular issues. Outside work, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband, family, and friends. At home, Dr. K shares her space with two feline companions—a domestic longhair named Cameron and a Persian named Clem.
Brendan Cloonan, DVM, Urgent Care
Dr. Brendan Cloonan, a Pittsburgh native from the Northside neighborhood of Brighton Heights, embarked on his journey in veterinary medicine at Mercyhurst College, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biology. His passion for animal care led him to Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, where he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, culminating in clinical rotations at Louisiana State University (LSU). Post-graduation, Dr. Cloonan commenced his career as a clinical instructor at LSU’s Anesthesia Department, honing his skills in anesthesia and surgical procedures. He sought further specialization and completed a rigorous one-year rotating internship in internal medicine and surgery at Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center (PVSEC). Subsequently, he transitioned to a full-time role as an associate veterinarian in PVSEC’s Emergency Department, where he gained extensive experience in critical care and emergency medicine. Driven by his commitment to comprehensive care, Dr. Cloonan later transitioned to general practice, contributing his expertise to Wexford Veterinary Hospital before becoming an integral part of Safe Haven Urgent Care. His clinical interests include wound repair/management, general surgery, analgesia/pain management, toxicology, and trauma. Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Cloonan enjoys spending time with his family, including his wife—a fellow veterinarian— their daughter, and two spirited dogs, Ox (a Jack Russell Terrier) and Bubban (a Labrador). He indulges in hobbies such as golfing, kayaking, and exploring local breweries/restaurants and cheering on the Black and Gold.
Deanna Purvis, VMD, DACVECC, CVA
Dr. Deanna Purvis was born in Vancouver, Washington, but despite her West Coast beginnings, she spent many formative years in Pittsburgh, making it feel like home. She received her B.S. in Biology from Penn State University in 1983 and is a 1988 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine. Immersing herself in furthering her expertise, she continued at the University of Pennsylvania for her internship in small animal medicine and surgery. Subsequently, she pursued two intensive years of residency training in small animal surgery at the University of Tennessee, where her dedication to caring for critically ill and ICU patients blossomed. Driven by her passion, she sought additional specialization, enrolling in the Emergency and Critical Care residency training program at the Animal Emergency Center in Milwaukee, WI. In 1994, she attained Diplomate status in the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (ACVECC). For a decade, Dr. Purvis devoted herself to emergency and critical care medicine/surgery in various specialty and referral hospitals nationwide. Yet, amidst the rewarding work, she pondered the root causes of her patients’ illnesses, sparking a fascination with ancient healing traditions and a holistic, preventative approach to healthcare. In 2005, she expanded her skillset by completing training through the CuraCore program in Fort Collins, CO, becoming certified to perform veterinary acupuncture. Driven by her thirst for knowledge, she furthered her training in Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine through the Chi Institute. Dr. Purvis is dedicated to an integrative approach to healthcare, blending Eastern and Western techniques to provide optimal patient care and comfort. She moved back to Pittsburgh in 2013 and now shares her home with her spouse and three beloved dogs—a golden retriever, a lab mix, and a jack russell mix. Beyond her veterinary pursuits, she finds fulfillment in studying Buddhism, reading, traveling, gardening, and leisurely walks.
Hillary, CVT, Urgent Care
Hillary, a Certified Veterinary Technician, earned her degree from Stautzenberger College in 2014. Throughout her tech career, she has primarily concentrated on general practice but is expanding her expertise into urgent care veterinary medicine. Hillary finds immense satisfaction in learning and embraces the challenges inherent in the veterinary field. An Ohio native and avid OSU fan, Hillary also enjoys various outdoor activities in her spare time, including barbecuing, hiking, and kayaking. Hillary shares her home with her husband, stepdaughter, and a host of rescued animals.
Jenn, CVT, Urgent Care
Jenn, a Beaver County local, turned her passion for animals into a fulfilling career after graduating from The Vet Tech Institute of Pittsburgh in 2015. She has developed a deep affinity for anesthesia throughout her professional journey, dedicating her expertise to the surgical and anesthesia realms. Jenn shares her life at home with her beloved pit bull/blue heeler mix, Brinn, and her gray cat, Theo. Outside of work, she finds joy in anything involving wheels and a motor, whether riding her motorcycle, driving her truck, or exploring on quads.
Vanessa, CVT, Urgent Care
Vanessa grew up in Erie, PA, and graduated from the Institute of Medical and Business Careers, obtaining her license in 2021. She has been practicing in general practice hospitals and clinics since 2020. While continuing to explore and expand her professional interests, Vanessa is particularly passionate about feline medicine. When relaxing after work, you can find her weightlifting or hiking with her husband. They share their home with two beloved cats, Uncle Huckleberry and Doctor Lunchmeat
Ashley, CVT, Urgent Care
Ashley, a 2006 Pittsburgh Vet Tech Institute graduate, hails from Eastern PA and brings a wealth of experience from both family and ECC medicine. With a primary focus on emergency medicine, she has finely honed her skills over the years. Outside of her professional life, Ashley finds fulfillment in various hobbies. She enjoys live music, tends to her beloved Hoya house plants, and immerses herself in the world of Harry Potter. She treasures moments spent with her (2) two-legged children, Marnie and Maverick. Her family is complete with their beloved pets: Shyla and Stanley, the Pomeranians; Sambuca, the Domestic Short Hair; Simon, the Persian kitty; and Seymour, the one-eyed Siamese.
Courtney, CVT, Urgent Care
Following her graduation from the Pittsburgh Vet Tech Institute in 2003, Courtney arrived at Safe Haven armed with extensive experience in surgical medicine. More recently, she has expanded her realm of knowledge to include exotic veterinary medicine. In addition to quality time with her husband and their two children, Brooks and Kendall, she finds joy in hiking and cozying up with beloved pets. Their furry companions include dogs Gus, Gemma, and Rodeo, as well as two cats, Bruce and Panda. Not to forget her snake, Negan, and two frogs, rounding out their lively household.
Stacie, Reception, Urgent Care
Originally from Pittsburgh, Stacie began her career in customer care in 2007 and is thrilled to contribute her wealth of experience to SHVH. Away from work, she finds delight in doting on her cats and experimenting in the kitchen. Stacie loves outdoor adventures, whether strolling through city neighborhoods, cycling along nearby trails, or hiking in the scenic local parks.