Meet Our Team

 Cristina is a dedicated animal care professional with a lifelong passion for pets. Beyond owning a variety of pets at a young age, she cared for neighborhood pets before volunteering at local shelters. In 2014, she began working in large scale dog boarding and daycare facilties, caring for up to 50 dogs at a time! She graduated from the Ross Veterinary Assistant program in 2019 with a 4.0 GPA and the opportunity to work at two veterinary clinics. Since 2021, Cristina has focused on Birchwood Pets , where she maintains her Red Cross Pet First Aid and NAVTA certifications while staying up-to-date with advancements in veterinary care. Outside of her professional commitments, she enjoys cooking, cross-stitching, and backpacking.   

A lifelong pet owner and animal lover, Zach has worked hard alongside Cristina since 2021 to help build Birchwood Pets. While this is not his full-time job, Zach makes sure to dedicate time to spend with each guest while creating a calm and safe space in his home office where guests go to relax or take breaks. As our resident handyman, Zach cares for the Birchwood home and yard, prioritizing the safety of our guests above all else. He provides unbeatable care and assistance with everything from grooming and group walks, to cuddles and playtime with our boarders. Outside of Birchwood, Zach enjoys running, backpacking, and settling in for a good game of Catan.

Jach joined the Birchwood family in 2019, at age 2, from the Humane Society of Huron Valley. When Birchwood Pets began, Jach was assigned the role of Concierge Dog due to his calm and quiet disposition. Animals always seem to trust him and relax around him. Jach loves to meet new animals, and has been friendly and gentle with cats, guinea pigs, reptiles, and of course, other dogs! He participates in all meet and greets as well as drop offs/pick ups at the Birchwood home. When not working, Jach enjoys cuddling with blankets, chewing rubber bones, and going on long walks. 

Haylee is a pet lover, dog and cat owner, and began working as a Daycare Assistant as our student intern in 2024. Her experience at home caring for her own pets along with her youthful energy means she provides the most fun and enriching experience for our daycare dogs- they simply love her! We look forward to having Haylee as a part of our Summer 2025 team and beyond. When not at Birchwood, Haylee enjoys drawing, swimming, and spending time with friends and family.