Mirela's passion and love for animals started in childhood while working on her aunt's farm in Bosnia. She helped to provide care for a variety of domestic animals ranging from goats, sheep, chickens, geese, swine, dogs and cats. After immigrating to the United States with her family, she attended the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, and majored in Animal Science, and Biology. Her technician experience spans 12 years-from shelter medicine to general surgery. She plans to obtain her technician certification and continue her training in small animal surgery and anesthesia. Her primary focus is feline medicine.

In additional to being department supervisor, Mirela is a surgical technician for Dr. Michelle Willis. Dr. Willis is a board-certified ophthalmologist. Together, they help feline patients with a variety of eye-related issues that may require long-term management and/or surgical intervention.

Her other interests include arts and crafts, baking bread, reading, biking and hiking. She was a proud owner of two canine rescues - 19 yr Seamus and 16 yr Verni. Sadly they have passed on, but Mirela is looking forward to loving and caring for her next rescue within the next few years.