The people behind the scenes:

Gold Country Animal Clinic was created by a passionate group of animal lovers dedicated to ensuring that every furry friend is safe & healthy in a loving home

Ashley Vieira RVT | President

I am a Registered Veterinary Technician with 16 years of hands-on experience specializing in shelter medicine and high-quality, affordable spay and neuter services. Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to improving animal welfare by providing compassionate care, supporting underserved communities, and enhancing the efficiency of high-volume surgical programs. My expertise spans patient care, anesthesia monitoring, surgical support, and community outreach, and I am known for my calm professionalism and strong commitment to making veterinary services accessible to all pets in need.

Alex Maloney MSW | Secretary

Founder & President of Wayward Journey

I have over 10 years of animal sheltering experience, including fostering animals, managing a volunteer program, and overseeing shelter operations. At Wayward Journey, we are highly involved in our community with our shelter work, pet pantry, vaccine clinics, and spay/neuter supports. In this work, we often meet people who care deeply about their animals but aren’t financially equipped to take care of their veterinary needs. Bringing a low cost veterinary clinic with spay/neuter services is a highly needed program and I feel so lucky to partner with these passionate people to bring this service to Nevada County.

Shanna Leslie MBA-OD | Treasurer

I have called the area home for more than 15 years and have been actively involved in the local animal rescue community for many years. I am a lifelong animal lover and currently share my life with six dogs, four cats, and more than 60 rescued farm animals. I serve on the board of PAWSS and am deeply committed to expanding access to compassionate, practical care for animals in need. With a background in the private sector and a hands-on approach to animal welfare, I am passionate about supporting programs that strengthen the community and improve outcomes for animals and the people who care for them.

Kathleen O’Sullivan CPDT-KA

Founder & President of Pound Puppy Rescue

I founded Pound Puppy Rescue in 2005, an organization that rescues, fosters, and places homeless puppies in permanent homes. Pound Puppy Rescue has saved hundreds of homeless puppies, including mommas with litters, and found them their perfect homes. We also offer financial assistance to low-income owners of pit bulls, shepherds, and husky mix dogs helping to reduce the number of unwanted puppies in shelters.

Peggy Reis, Retired Critical Care RN

Since retirement, I have transferred my passion for helping people to helping dogs and puppies. I currently volunteer for Pound Puppy Rescue in Nevada County involving myriad responsibilities. I am very excited to extend my role as a volunteer for Gold Country Animal Clinic.