Alexis Kessler, DVM
Medical Director
Dr. Alexis Kessler grew up in New Jersey and moved to Philadelphia where she obtained a bachelor’s degree from Temple University. Following graduation, and after a brief stay in NYC, she moved to Los Angeles where she attended Western University for veterinary school – while working full time at ACCESS Specialty Animal hospital in Los Angeles as a veterinary technician. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2020 and went on to complete her Small Animal Medicine and Surgery Internship at VCA West Los Angeles. After her internship she returned to ACCESS, where she has been working as an Emergency Staff Doctor.
Her professional interests include all aspects of small animal veterinary medicine, although building strong and lasting relationships with her clients is the most fulfilling aspect of her career. Dr. Kessler has an incredible capacity and willingness to better the lives of all people and animals that she meets.
Outside of work, Dr. Kessler enjoys living in Long Beach and spending time with her human and fur baby family, while taking in all the natural beauty that California has to offer.
Emily Miralaie, DVM
Dr. Emily Miralaie, originally from Iowa, relocated to the Central Valley of California where she resided until college. She played collegiate soccer and obtained her bachelor’s degree from CSU San Bernardino. After graduation, she worked as an emergency veterinary assistant prior to vet school. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California. Dr. Miralaie is deeply passionate about providing education alongside high-quality preventative medicine, while also attending to any urgent care needs that may arise. She strives to provide comprehensive care for all patients, with a focus on improving the well-being of both pets and their owners. Outside of work, Dr. Miralaie enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and Lab mix, Ember.
Amanda Muñoz, DVM
Dr. Amanda Muñoz is a Southern California native, but is new to the Long Beach area. She grew up in Santa Clarita and earned her Bachelors degree in Biology from Loyola Marymount University. She went on to graduate with Honors from veterinary school at Western University of Health Sciences. Following graduation, she completed an internship at Conejo Valley Veterinary Hospital, where she expanded her knowledge and experience with small animals and exotic pets, and has continued to work with these species as a general practitioner and urgent care veterinarian in the greater Los Angeles area. She has a special interest in internal medicine, surgery, and emergency medicine and enjoys learning new skills and teaching her colleagues as well.
Carrie Robbins, DVM
Dr. Carrie Robbins grew up in Denver, CO and attended veterinary school at the University of Minnesota. She completed a rotating internship at Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital in Colorado, followed by an advanced emergency and surgical internship at Ocean State Veterinary Specialists in Rhode Island. Dr. Robbins then worked in emergency medicine, general practice, and shelter medicine in New England before joining the team at LBC Vets.
With extensive experience in soft tissue surgery, Dr. Robbins has provided emergency surgical coverage for several specialty hospitals, including
Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. She is passionate about teaching and ensuring access to high-quality, affordable surgical care. Dr. Robbins also has a strong interest in veterinary dentistry, pursuing advanced training with a board-certified veterinary dentist and coursework at the Animal Dental Training Center. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and exploring the outdoors with her family.
Andrew Pongyan
Practice Manager
Drew, a California native, began working with companion pets in 2008 where he quickly learned that he has a natural passion for the veterinary field and veterinary medicine. It is this passion and a propensity for leadership that led Drew to further develop in his career, and to take on more challenging roles. He started in the field as a veterinary technician and has since managed large and dynamic general practices and emergency clinics – concentrating on developing the next generation of veterinary leadership. Drew will become eligible this year to become a Certified Veterinary Practice Manger.
Drew Loves spending time with his family here in Long Beach and engaging in a variety of outdoor activities. He also loves to read and finds enjoyment in furthering his education.