MALTA ANIMAL HOSPITAL - Key Persons
Dr. Alex Kent grew up in southern New York state but did his undergraduate degree at the University of Massachusetts. He then moved to beautiful Prince Edward Island in Canada to attend the Atlantic Veterinary College to complete his veterinary degree. This was followed by a one-year internship at Michigan Veterinary Specialists in Southfield, MI. He has worked as a veterinarian in Ohio, Quebec, and Connecticut but has settled in the Capital region.
When he is not working to keep pets healthy, he is spending time with his wife (who is also a veterinarian), two young daughters, and their dog Posie and cat Frankie.
Dr. Heather Gilkes Zaidel graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Vermont with a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science. She continued her education at Cornell University, where she earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree.
In addition to her numerous professional associations, Dr. Heather Gilkes Zaidel serves on two committees for the New York State Veterinary Medical Society: the College Liason and New Graduate Committees. Both opportunities provide a simple means for Dr. Gilkes Zaidel to make a positive difference within the profession.
Dr. Jake Zaidel lives his lifelong dream of serving his community as a veterinarian each and every day. After pursuing an undergraduate education at Michigan State University's Lyman Briggs School, Dr. Zaidel earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) degree at Cornell University. He has served his profession as a Leader in the New York State Veterinary Medical Society's L2K program and is Past-President of the Capital District Veterinary Medical Society.
Dr. Zaidel co-founded and for several years, served as Treasurer of Eastline Romp & Play, a non-profit corporation that has partnered with the Town of Malta to develop and maintain a dog park within the community.
Job Titles:
- Licensed Veterinary Technician
Jean is a Licensed Veterinary Technician who joined our team in February of 2012. She attended Purdue University in 2006 and relocated to upstate New York in 2007. She enjoys the variety her profession brings to each day and working with a great team that provides high-quality patient care. Her areas of special interest include canine/feline dentistry and animal behavior. Jean enjoys meeting new pets and their families and knowing that she has played a part in educating owners and caring for their four-legged family members.
Dr. Michelle Bombard is a Capital region native. She graduated from Galway High School in 1993, then completed a double major at Binghamton University, where she graduated with a BS in Biology and Environmental Studies in 1997. She continued her education at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, earning her DVM degree in 2002.
Dr. Bombard has been practicing companion animal medicine in the Saratoga area for over 20 years. Her primary interest is in preventive medicine, helping her clients to achieve a higher quality of life for their pets as long as possible.
Dr. Bombard is a member of the local, state, and national veterinary medical associations. She served as the Capital District Veterinary Medical Society's Continuing Education Chairperson for three years, for which she was recognized with a CDVMS service award for her efforts to bring continuing education to local veterinarians. She co-chairs the regional grassroots legislative network for the CDVMS to help foster communication between veterinarians and their legislators on topics that may affect the welfare of animals, the practice of veterinary medicine, and interaction between veterinarians and their clients.
Michelle and her husband Mark live in Galway where they have begun building their home on a few acres (so they'll always have room for a few horses for trail riding). They have two boys, who will grow up constantly surrounded by animals. Dr. Bombard's personal interests include horseback riding, skiing, camping, and spending time with family.
Mary began her career at Malta Animal Hospital as a student pursuing a degree in veterinary technology. She recently completed her degree in veterinary technology and licensure. Mary has a big heart, full of compassion which helps her deliver excellent patient care.
She shares her home with husband Justin, their 3 cats, Bane, Aurora and Ogi and 2 Labrador Retrievers, Zola Bear and Kelly.