(212) 535-MEOW (6369)

MEET THE TEAM

Dr. Peter H. Soboroff, DVM, MS, Medical Director

Though enamored of all animals, I’ve always had a particular interest in and affinity for cats. This lifelong love of cats is what ultimately led me to open New York Cat Hospital on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in 2006.

Originally from Chicago, I received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in wildlife biology at the University of Illinois. Thereafter, I worked as a wildlife biologist for the Illinois Natural History Survey participating in research on badgers and waterfowl.

Seeking further education and wildlife career opportunities, I matriculated at the University Of Illinois College Of Veterinary Medicine. Upon graduation, however, I eschewed my wildlife aspirations in favor of small animal medicine and moved to New York City to complete a post-graduate internship at the Animal Medical Center. I’ve been practicing veterinary medicine in New York since 1996, and am an active member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Association of Feline Practitioners.

Focusing my attention exclusively on felines has allowed me to develop an even deeper understanding and appreciation of these endlessly engaging and fascinating animals. It’s a daily pleasure knowing that each and every visit is another opportunity to interact with my favorite animal.

It is our mission to provide high-quality compassionate, complete medical care for cats in a peaceful, stress-free environment. As cat owners and cat lovers ourselves, we strive to be continually mindful of your cat’s experience here, treating all our patients with the same gentle, thoughtful manner we would want for our own cats.

On those rare occasions I’m not at the cat hospital, I enjoy spending time with my wife and young son, and sampling local ethnic cuisine!

Dr. Julie Horton, DVM

Originally from Missouri, I moved to New York City in 1994 to work on my PhD in biopsychology.  I realized half way through the program, however that my interest was focused more on animals and their welfare and care.  I moved back to the city after graduating from Ross University in 2000 and completed an internship in small animal medicine and surgery at Manhattan Veterinary Group.  Since that time I have practiced shelter, emergency, and general small animal medicine in the metropolitan area. 

I practice my profession with tremendous gratitude, appreciation and respect and never take for granted the skills I’ve acquired and continue to achieve as a practitioner.  I believe in a holistic approach in which all systems of the body are evaluated together and take great care to exam the behavior and attitude of a patient in manifesting as a systemic problem.  This is especially important in cats because many “hidden” processes get overlooked or may be masked by the obvious presenting problem.

I’m especially interested in evaluating and researching pain in felines as this may prolong and exacerbate medical problems if not well controlled.  I’m currently working toward requirements to be a Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner (CVPP) and a member of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP).  I’m a member of the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM), Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society (VECCS), and the American Veterinary Medical Society (AVMA). 

I currently live with two rescue Pit-bull mixes on the Upper East Side.  On my time off I enjoy participating in ultra runs, trekking, skiing, traveling and exploring the city.

Elizabeth Chappell, Licensed Veterinary Technician

I graduated with my degree in Veterinary Science Technology in 2007 from SUNY Canton. I am originally from Central New York but moved to Hawaii for a year after graduation to begin my career working with animals.  I enjoy seeing Broadway shows and going to sporting events.  Go Giants! I currently reside in NYC with my boyfriend and our 3 cats: Kyan, Puma & Jasper.  My cats are my kids and rest assured that I will give your cat(s) the same love and care that I give to my own.

June Leary, Patient Care Coordinator

I grew up in rural upstate New York, where I raised and showed Labrador Retrievers and enjoyed horseback riding.  Cats came into my life through my four children, and we had many happy years with Helen, Boat, Kitty, Peanut, Blackmale and Penny.   My career has been in the arts and children's services, and I am very happy now to be working with my first love - animals.  I live in Washington Heights with my dog, Josie Wales.

Elisa Franco, Veterinary Assistant

Ola!  I am originally from Passo Fundo, Brazil where I studied Veterinary Medicine.  I also worked at a hospital in Raleigh, North Carolina before I moved to New York in 2010.  I have always loved animals and I am fortunate to have a career that allows me to work with them everyday.  In my spare time I love listening to music (mostly, The Beatles) and traveling! My husband and I live in Manhattan with our two cats: Muffins & Peanuts.

Jay Seo, Patient Care Coordinator

I am a recent graduate of Baruch College with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing Management. The warm, nurturing atmosphere here at New York Cat Hospital is perfect match for my passion in the client care industry. I currently do not have any pets at home, but being constantly surrounded by all the wonderful cats I meet on a daily basis might just change that very soon!

Jessica Higgs, Veterinary Assistant

My name is Jessica and I am originally from the Midwest.  I have relocated to New York City a few years ago to explore what big city living was all about.  I previously worked as a regional flight attendant but I was looking for a move fulfilling career.  My love of animals matched with my previous experience producing an educational television show in my hometown animal shelter led me to seek a position in the veterinary field.  New York Cat Hospital has been a perfect match for me! 

Naomi Hayes, Veterinary Assistant

I am originally from California and moved to New York in August 2007. I graduated from University of California Davis with bachelors in Animal Science. I grew up with cats, dogs, fish, and hamsters.   Although I don't have any pets, I have always loved cats and this job allows me the opportunity to work with them.  In my spare time I enjoy reading, playing the clarinet, and the occasional game of bowling.