Meet the Veterinarians & Team of Coastal Veterinary in Selbyville! We’re pleased to provide exceptional vet care for your pets!
Please call us at 302-524-8550 to speak to one of our caring veterinary staff members!
MaryHelen Staruch, VMD, is the dedicated owner and lead veterinarian at Coastal Veterinary. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her practice, with a particular focus on small animal emergency care. Dr. Staruch’s career has been shaped by her early work in animal rescue, where she not only gained valuable skills but also adopted several rescue pets that now make up her own cherished pet family.
Known for her compassionate approach and commitment to providing exceptional care, Dr. Staruch ensures that every pet she treats receives personalized attention. She believes in building strong relationships with both pets and their owners, understanding the deep bond they share. Her straightforward and honest communication, combined with a passion for helping animals, has earned her the trust and loyalty of her clients.
When not at the clinic, Dr. Staruch enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her significant other, Frank. She also loves music, movies, and sharing meals with friends. Dr. Staruch is proud to lead a practice where the well-being of pets and the peace of mind of their owners always come first.
Dr. Renee Richards joined the Coastal Veterinary team in October 2017. After graduating from Shippensburg University in pre-veterinary medicine in 1991 and the University Of Pennsylvania School Of Veterinary Medicine in 1995, Dr. Richards practiced in Pennsylvania for the next 22 years. For 18 of those years, Dr. Richards was a practice owner. Her special areas of interest include internal medicine and dentistry.
A new resident to Delaware, Dr. Richards is enjoying exploring the beautiful beaches, often with her dogs Lulu, a Welsh Terrier/PBGV mix, and Angus, a Welsh terrier. When not working, Dr. Richards enjoys spending her free time traveling, biking, hiking and running.
Dr. Erin Altares grew up in the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania area. She attended Elizabethtown College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a concentration in pre-veterinary medicine. Dr. Altares then moved south to attend the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in Knoxville, TN.
Since graduation, she has developed a special interest in soft tissue surgery, urgent care/ emergency medicine, dermatology, and in Fear Free Medicine. Dr. Altares has gone through Fear Free training and it is her goal to keep animals happy and free of fear or anxiety when they visit the veterinary hospital.
Dr. Altares and her cat Toulouse moved to the Lewes, Delaware area in 2019 and her extended family joined them in 2020. Dr. Altares started at Coastal Veterinary in July 2021 and is happy to serve the people and pets in the greater Selbyville area.
In her free time, Dr. Altares enjoys baking and gardening, reading murder mysteries, as well as spending time outdoors hiking.
Dr. Emily Bielecki grew up in Cordova, MD. She attended University of Maryland where she received her B.S. in Animal Science, then went on to earn her degree as Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, spending her clinical year at Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. She joined the CV team in July 2021. Dr. Bielecki's special interests include preventative medicine, geriatric care, and ophthalmology. She also enjoys her role in representing the veterinarians of Delaware as the state delegate in the American Veterinary Medical Association House of Delegates, helping to vote on association policies and elect leaders within this organization.
Dr. Bielecki lives with her husband, Brian, weimaraners Minerva and Molly, chocolate lab Diesel, and MANY goats, chickens, ducks, turkeys, rabbits, and peafowl on their farm in Georgetown.
Sherie began her career in the veterinary field in 2010, and in 2014 she graduated from the Veterinary Technology Program at Delaware Technical and Community College. She is passionate about providing compassionate care for every patient and providing education for all pet owners regarding the health and welfare of their beloved pets. As well as performing her technical duties in patient care, Sherie is also always available to answer client questions and concerns.
Born and raised in Brick, NJ, Sherie moved to Sussex County in 2009. When she is not taking care of patients, Sherie enjoys spending time with friends and family, learning about and completing home improvement projects, and crafting homemade toys for her furry children. Sherie is blessed with a beautiful family including her husband Jim, her three cats Peppy, Rafiki and Evee, her two chinchillas Penelope and Lilly, and an aquarium full of fish.
Bethany, is the Office manager & veterinary technician here at Coastal Veterinary. She has over 17 years veterinary technician experience at various other hospitals and has maintained management roles for 13 years. She started out volunteering for the DNR in Maryland, helping care for and rehab local wildlife, as well as working various kennel jobs. Bethany pursued a job as a technician assistant, where she then started acquiring the on the job skills as veterinary technician.
Bethany was born and raised in northern Maryland. After frequently vacationing here, her and her husband decided to move full time to Delaware in June of 2020. At home she enjoys spending time with family (husband and 2 young daughters). They thoroughly enjoy several outdoor activities. Hiking, frequenting the beach and local parks. Bethany and her husband are thrilled to watch their daughters develop a passion for animals as well. They have 2 cats (Revan, 15yr and Arya 11 yr).
Chantal has known since her days in high school FFA that veterinary medicine was career for her. While she has been a veterinary technician for four years, her talents do not stop there. Chantal also serves our community as an NREMT and a working member for the Millsboro Fire Department.
Originally from a small town in Pennsylvania, Chantal now calls Selbyville her home. Along with her family pets, Chantal has her own wild, energetic Australian Shepherd named Dancer.
Will became an integral part of Coastal Veterinary in 2016, contributing to the hospital's inception and growth. Starting out as a veterinary assistant, he advanced to become a veterinary technician, dedicating himself to diverse responsibilities for optimal patient care. His multifaceted support goes beyond clinical duties, significantly enhancing day-to-day operations, earning him the title of operations specialist.
With a comprehensive professional background, Will accrued 12 years of experience in the U.S. Air Force as an Aerospace Ground Equipment Technician and Information Management specialist. His tenure cultivated an extensive mechanical and IT knowledge base, proving instrumental in fortifying Coastal Veterinary's operational efficiency and elevating patient care standards.
Beyond his professional commitments, Will, with his wife Melissa, invests time in fostering cats and kittens, aligning with his passion for veterinary care. In leisure, he engages in photography, collaborative gaming, occasional camping, and continuous knowledge pursuits. Their family comprises Melissa, Will, and a delightful ensemble of 6 cats, 1 chinchilla, 1 Belgian Malinois, and, consistently, a rotating cast of foster babies.
Jenna is a valued member of the Coastal Veterinary team since 2017, where she serves as one of our senior technicians and oversees the operations of our surgical suite. Jenna is a graduate of the Veterinary Technology Program at Delaware Tech, having successfully passed the national exam to become a Licensed Veterinary Technician. Her unwavering dedication to the well-being of animals is evident in her passion for comprehensive care. Jenna harbors aspirations to continue her veterinary education, aspiring to earn the esteemed Veterinary Technician Specialty designation.
A Seaford, Delaware native, Jenna resides with her family, where her affectionate cat Pixie holds a special place in her heart. Beyond her dedication to veterinary care, Jenna finds solace in the world of literature. She loves to unwind by delving into a good book and cherishes the moments spent reading with Pixie, her furry reading companion.
Drew is one of our highly skilled Senior veterinary technicians with over 17 years of experience in the veterinary field, beginning in 2006, including surgical monitoring and emergency triage. He has his certification in fear-free handling, animal CPR, and received awards for his research on memory and cognition in cattle while at university. He received his Bachelor’s of science degree in animal behavior and human psychology from the University of New England in Maine.
Drew was born and raised on Long Island, New York, and moved to Delaware in 2018 to enjoy our wonderful beaches and to be closer to family. When he’s not at work, Drew enjoys the great outdoors and photography. He lives here with his family of pets; his 2 wonderful kitties, Icarus and Edelweiss, and one amazing chinchilla named Tudy.
Holly Hammond has cultivated a rich career as a Veterinary Technician since 2005, showcasing her expertise in a 24-hour Emergency Hospital before her pivotal role at Coastal Veterinary in 2021. Her dedication to excellence is evident in her Fear Free Certification, emphasizing a commitment to reducing patient anxiety and elevating medical care standards.
A proud Millsboro native, Holly and her husband, Brandon, passionately steward their 24-acre farmland, harmonizing care for their home with a broader commitment to wildlife preservation. Holly extends her love for animals into the realm of dog show competitions, showcasing the unique talents of her Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Barrett.
Beyond veterinary endeavors, Holly's vibrant spirit extends to her love of music, dedication to fitness, hiking, and the tranquil beauty of the beach. Rooted in a profound love for animals, Holly embodies the highest standards of compassion and expertise in the field of veterinary care.
Gabrielle joined Coastal Veterinary in 2021. She has been working in the veterinary field since 2008. In 2012, she graduated with a degree in Veterinary Technology from Delaware Technical Community College. She then went on to pass the national exam and became a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT).
Gabrielle is a Sussex County native. She lives with her husband and two daughters, along with their dogs, sugar gliders, and fish aquariums. Some of her hobbies include horseback riding, hiking/backpacking in the mountains, and reading books.
Yonya is a dedicated Veterinary Technician here at Coastal Veterinary. Her passion for animal welfare led her to initiate her career in veterinary care at Coastal Veterinary as a high school intern in 2017. Under the guidance of our experienced veterinary technicians, she thrived in her responsibilities, successfully balancing her duties with academic excellence, ultimately graduating from high school.
Initially pursuing a degree in Veterinary Medicine at the Delaware State University, Yonya has since redirected her focus to Surgical Technology at Delaware Technical Community College (Del Tech), driven by a desire to specialize in surgical care as a certified Surgical Technician. This shift in focus leverages her existing technical skills, enhancing her future contributions in surgical care and further solidifying her commitment to delivering exceptional patient outcomes.
Born and raised in Delaware, Yonya is well-acquainted with the charms of Southern Delaware. Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, she values time with loved ones, enjoying dinner gatherings with friends, shopping excursions, and family bonding. Notably, she engages in lively Xbox gaming sessions with her two younger brothers, who continually challenge her to top her gaming skills. Yonya credits her supportive parents and close-knit family for fostering her personal and professional growth.
Formerly a vet assistant in the glamorous world of 'Catnip and Carrots' in Queens, because who wouldn't want to work at a place with such a fancy name? Spent 7 years skillfully navigating animal emergencies like a superhero at Savannah Animal Hospital, and now, proudly known as the official cat whisperer at Coastal Veterinary.– where Tootie, the hospital cat, holds the real power. When not charming felines, she's hanging out with her three cats: Buffy, Girlfriend (Fred), and Anya – named after her undying love for Buffy the Vampire Slayer. On her days off, catch her swinging bats and playing softball or, you know, just being a regular cat superhero.
In 2013, Liz began her professional journey in the veterinary field as a veterinary assistant at an animal hospital in Baltimore County, MD. Through diligence, structured training, and unwavering determination, she achieved a promotion to the role of veterinary technician by 2015. During her tenure at the hospital, Liz excelled in laboratory diagnostics and small animal radiology, refining her skills until 2021, when she made the strategic decision to return to the Eastern Shore. Subsequently, she seamlessly integrated into our dedicated team at Coastal Veterinary.
A native of Worcester County, Liz boasts substantial familial connections to the Eastern Shore, contributing to her profound affinity for the region. Beyond her professional commitments, Liz pursues various interests and hobbies, including a notable penchant for photography, particularly in capturing the nuances of nature. Her appreciation for the great outdoors and the scenic beauty of our local beaches further underscores her commitment to a well-rounded and enriching lifestyle.
When not immersed in the art of capturing natural landscapes through her lens, Liz finds solace in the companionship of her beloved four-legged companions. As a devoted caregiver, she shares her life with two feline companions, Henry and Willow, embodying her commitment to fostering meaningful connections both within and beyond the veterinary profession.
Julia has been an invaluable member of the Coastal Veterinary team since 2022, rising to the role of veterinary technician after starting her career in a local shelter. Her journey into veterinary medicine followed a distinguished service as an EMT in the U.S. Army, reflecting her dedication to healthcare.
Known for her gentle and loving approach, Julia excels in working with challenging animals, disarming them with ease. Her infectious optimism and ability to thrive in chaotic situations make her a standout team member. Committed to continuous learning, Julia aims to deepen her knowledge in the veterinary field for the benefit of her patients and clients. Outside of work, she enjoys quality time with her family, partaking in activities like kayaking and caring for her dogs, cats, chickens, and ducks. Julia's blend of professional expertise and warm personality exemplifies her as a crucial asset to Coastal Veterinary.
Jes joined Coastal Veterinary in the summer of 2023 as a Veterinary Kennel Technician and swiftly ascended to become a vital member of our Veterinary Technician team. With four years of prior experience at a senior dog-focused non-profit, where she served as the Lead Kennel Technician and Shelter Coordinator, Jes brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to her role.
Currently pursuing licensure as a Veterinary Technician, Jes seamlessly blends her formal education with hands-on experience. Hailing from Columbia, MD, she relocated to the eastern shore to be closer to family. Beyond her professional commitments, Jes is a skilled digital artist, specializing in animal and scenic illustrations. Her artistic prowess, coupled with interests in knitting and a dedication to her pets—two golden retrievers, Ozzy and Cooper, and two bunnies, Merlin and Butters—underscore her commitment to excellence in all facets of her life. Jes's versatile skills and passion for animal care make her an invaluable asset to our team.
Katy, a licensed Veterinary Technician (RVT, LVT), has recently joined our Coastal Veterinary team, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to our practice. Her journey in veterinary care began with a high school internship at a Salisbury, MD veterinary hospital, which sparks a passion that continues to grow stronger. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences, and later, a second Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology, solidifying her foundation in veterinary care.
Katy's professional path led her to VOSM, where she honed her expertise in animal orthopedics. Now, she's joined our team, bringing her skills and enthusiasm to the Coastal Veterinary family. With a strong foundation in veterinary technology, Katy is committed to ongoing growth, with plans to pursue a Veterinary Technician Specialty (VTS) certification in either Anesthesia or Animal Rehabilitation.
Born in Massachusetts, Katy's childhood was marked by exciting relocations courtesy of her father's Army service, with early years spent in Germany, North Carolina, and ultimately, Maryland, where her love for animal care took root. Outside of the office, Katy enjoys spending time with her loved ones, including her husband and their two lively dogs, Bailey and Skye, often driving on the beach and exploring Assateague's shores. She also appreciates game nights with friends and quieter moments with a good fantasy novel. We're delighted to have Katy on our team and look forward to her continued growth and contributions to Coastal Veterinary.
Bio coming soon
Upon relocating to Delaware from Southern New Jersey, Teresa brought with her a wealth of veterinary customer service experience, enriching the Coastal Veterinary team with her seasoned expertise. Motivated by the camaraderie, support, and unwavering dedication of the staff, she is fervently committed to delivering exceptional and compassionate service to every client.
Residing in Delaware, Teresa finds pleasure in various activities, including reading, spending quality time with her daughter, engaging in walks with her newfound neighbors, tending to pets entrusted to her care, and enjoying cycling excursions to the beach with her husband. Beyond her immediate family, Teresa cherishes the companionship of her daughter's cat, Kiwi, reflecting her dedication to fostering positive connections both personally and professionally.
Bio coming soon
Tootie, the regal tortoiseshell cat, elegantly patrols the veterinary hospital, captivating all with her confident presence and soothing demeanor. From the reception desk to the cozy corners of exam rooms, Tootie presides over consultations, offering comfort through purrs and gentle nuzzles. Her royal naptimes and calming aura make her a beloved figure, turning the hospital into a sanctuary where both pets and owners find solace.
Tootie's exquisite taste extends to Churu, a delicacy fit for her stature. The mere sound of a Churu packet excites her, and the staff ensures her royal stash is well-stocked, turning snack time into a grand event. Tootie's love for Churu has become legendary, solidifying her status as the benevolent ruler whose contentment is the key to a harmonious veterinary realm.
On a beautiful afternoon Saturday, on August 17, 2019, we had said our final farewells. After surpassing her life expectancy and beating the odds, our sweet little angel “Button” couldn’t continue battling her many medical issues.
If you had met Button, you know she was the sweetest, most gentle cat you’d ever meet. When Dr. MaryHelen first opened the hospital, Button was one of our first patients and has remained with us ever since. Button was an intricate part of our hospital family, as we could not do some of the things we wanted to do, without Button’s help. When we needed to demonstrate medical techniques for clients, or if a new kitten needed some mothering care, Button was there. She will forever be missed by her family here.
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