Meet the Team at SeaCoast Veterinary Group
At SeaCoast Veterinary Group in Imperial Beach, CA, we aim to make every visit a positive, comforting experience for you and your pet. Give us a call today at 619-429-7387 to speak to one of our caring veterinary staff members. Your concerns are our concerns, and together, we embark on a journey to ensure the health and happiness of your furry family members.
Veterinarians
Dr. Kara Havens
Veterinarian
Education: Point Loma Nazarene University, St. George’s University, Washington State University
Pets: “Kasper” (female Basenji), “Nutmeg” (female Doberman/Greyhound island mutt), “Blaze” (male Basenji puppy), Pele (male Schnoodle), and Binx (male Domestic Shorthair island kitty)
I discovered my passion for animals at a young age and decided to pursue a veterinary medicine career at 18 after realizing my affinity for medicine. Born and raised in San Diego, I earned my Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology from Point Loma Nazarene University in May 2009. Then, I earned my Master in Public Health (MPH) in December 2012 and my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in June 2013 from St. George’s University, School of Veterinary Medicine, in Grenada, West Indies. Going to vet school in the Caribbean was a fantastic experience; I learned surgery skills early on, fostered several stray animals and found their homes, and even brought back a dog and cat for myself!
I spent my clinical year at Washington State University, developing particular areas of interest in oncology, anesthesia, internal medicine, and infectious disease control. Throughout my early career and due to personal health issues of family pets, I deepened my love for geriatric medicine, nephrology, and dermatology.
What I like most about being a veterinarian is seeing sick and injured pets restored to health and forming lasting relationships with pets and their human families. I love being able to share in the joy of a new puppy or kitten, and I delight in assisting pet parents in improving the quality of life of their senior pets.
Away from work, I enjoy spending time with my partner and our pets, “Nutmeg,” “Blaze,” “Binx,” “Kasper,” and “Pele.” We have regular family dinners in addition to playdates with my brother’s dog, “Winston,” the Shiba Inu. I enjoy playing the piano, Broadway, traveling, outdoor activities, and church in my spare time.
Leadership
Jenny
Practice Manager
Hometown: Indiana
Pets: 2 dogs!
Jenny grew up with dogs and cats and has always had an affinity for animals. In high school, she worked at the county’s Humane Society, helping rescue dogs, cats, and the occasional deer. She got into Veterinary medicine to help as many animals as possible, but snuggling puppies & kittens is a bonus!
Jenny is originally from the Midwest (Indiana-go COLTS!). Her husband is in the Navy, and they moved to San Diego a few years ago. She has two large fur kids, whom she adores so much! She enjoys reading, swimming, kayaking, and all things Disney and Christmas!
Jenny is looking forward to working at Seacoast Vet Group and learning about animals.
Technicians
Laura
Registered Veterinary Technician
As a kid, Laura always wanted to help save every hurt animal she saw. Though she loves all animals, she has a soft spot in her heart for cats. She is an RVT (Registered Veterinary Technician) and has been in the Vet field an astounding 46 years! What she loves most about her job is seeing great results from our patient care, especially in Dental cases. In her spare time, she likes quilting, reading, and enjoying the great outdoors in the mountains or near the ocean.
Brenda
Hometown: Ilinois
Pets: Kona, Kyo, and Jack
Brenda is originally from Illinois and moved to SoCal, as her husband is stationed here in the US Navy.
I chose to be in the vet field because I wanted to give my pets the best life they deserve. I also liked to take on the challenge of having patients that can’t tell us where it hurts or how they feel and learning how to take care of them. I love working in the vet field because every day is different & you never know who or what is going to walk in that door. I graduated in 2021 & received my CVT license in Illinois where I grew up. That same year I moved to San Diego and got my RVT licensing. It’s been a fun and different environment working here in California. Although I do miss the Midwest, I have my husband and 3 cats that keep me company and occupied at home. In my free time, I like to go out and try new restaurants or food places since San Diego has so much to offer or relax at home and binge-watch some Netflix.
Veterinary Assistants
Jose
Veterinary Assistant
One day while growing up in Mexico City, Jose found a sparrow in his family’s garden suffering from an injured wing. He fed and nurtured the bird and even applied a tiny splint. It didn’t take long for the sparrow to heal—he can still recall watching it fly away without any trouble! Right then and there, he realized that taking care of animals would be a future career path.
Jose studied animal care at the National Autonomous University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in Mexico. He first joined the clinic team when his good friend, SeaCoast Veterinary Group’s very own Armando, told him about an open position. Jose is passionate about surgery, preventative medicine, and client education. If he can impart his knowledge to improve a pet’s life, he knows he had a successful day!
In time away from work, Jose enjoys visiting the beach, playing soccer, and spending time with his family. He and his wonderful wife, Lupita, have an Irish wolfhound puppy named Zales and a French poodle mix named Miro.
Sarah
Hi there! I got in the Vet field because I love working with animals! I’ve been in the field about 8 years or so now and can’t imagine doing anything else. I love the bonds I can create with both an owner and the patients we see. I have 2 cats and 2 dogs. In my spare time, I enjoy arts & crafts and lots of glitter! I can’t wait to help you out at your next visit is SeaCoast!
Susy
Veterinary Assistant
Hi, my name is Susy! I recently graduated from Pima Medical Institute as a Veterinary Assistant (VA). Since I can remember, I’ve always had a love and passion for animals. I feel like I get more hands-on experience with all the pets by being a Vet Assistant. I have a dog named Spike, who I’ve had since he was a tiny puppy. I really like this field because it’s always something new, and you never know what to expect. In my free time, I like to watch Netflix, ride my ATV, color, and spend quality time with my family.
Jocelyn
Veterinary Assistant
Hey! My name is Jocelyn and I am a Veterinary Assistant. I got into the Vet field because I have always wanted to be in the medical field. However, unforeseen life events “pushed” me into Veterinary medicine. I love the veterinary field because I have always wanted to help the underdogs. Animals can’t help themselves and I love helping them out when they don’t feel their best.
Client Service Representatives
Brooke
CSR/ Receptionist
Brooke has loved & cared for animals of all kinds since she was a kid. Loving and caring for her own pets & taking care of family and friends’ pets lead her to the animal care field. From pet sitting to daycare to customer service representative for veterinary practices, she is passionate about caring for pets and educating clients about caring for their fur babies. Brooke has a chihuahua mix and two terrier mixes at home! She is honored to be a part of the SeaCoast community and looks forward to meeting you and your fur babies at your next visit.
Yuliana
CSR/Receptionist
I was born and raised in San Diego. For as long as I can remember I’ve always been passionate about animals. I enjoy coming to work every day and getting to know all the clients and their pets. I like to make them feel welcome and cared for. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and going on road trips. I have a dog his name is Mr. Whiskey, I adore him!