Meet Our Veterinary Team in Oxford, CT

Dr. Erika Ball has practiced veterinary medicine since graduating from Virginia Tech in 1997. After five years as an associate, she became a relief veterinarian, working across many different hospitals — a stretch that taught her how varied, and how improvable, feline care could be. For ten years she also taught future veterinary technicians at Northwestern Connecticut Community College in parasitology, surgery, and anesthesia, before opening Cat’s Corner, the all-feline hospital she had long dreamed of. Dr. Ball feels a deep connection to her feline patients and works to give them a calmer place to heal and thrive. Her favorite area of practice is dentistry, where she has years of experience and advanced training; because dental disease is the most common ailment she sees at every age, treating it properly brings real pain relief and lasting health benefits. Outside the hospital, she has a husband and two stepdaughters, and sings in an amateur garage band, “Ed Zeppelin,” with her husband on lead guitar. Family allergies mean she can’t keep pets of her own, so she gets all her “kitty lovin'” at work.

Linda joined Cat’s Corner in August 2017, arriving from Bonita Springs, Florida. A veterinary technician for over twelve years, she was promoted to practice manager at her previous practice while completing a degree in Business Management, and in April 2022 she earned her Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) credential through the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association. The daughter of a career veterinary technician, Linda practically grew up in an animal hospital. Outside work, she enjoys time with her son, playing guitar, the outdoors, reading, and music — she’s a devoted Bruce Springsteen fan.

Phoenix joined Cat’s Corner in August 2023 to focus their skills as a veterinary technician. Drawn to animals from a young age, they started in Nonnewaug High School’s agricultural program, then spent five years as a shelter technician before moving into small-animal practice as an assistant, kennel tech, and receptionist. In fall 2023, they began the Vet Tech program at Northwestern Connecticut Community College to earn their certification. They love understanding each cat’s personality and making patients and owners more comfortable, and outside of work enjoy singing, piano, nature hikes, and a good book.

Patty has worked in veterinary medicine since 2000 and became a Certified Veterinary Technician after passing the national exam in 2005. She has experience in ICU and emergency care and alongside a neurology specialist, and joined Cat’s Corner in 2011, where her nursing and rehabilitation skills make her a cornerstone of the team. She was drawn to Cat’s Corner precisely because it’s AAHA-accredited and cats-only — cats have always been her favorite. Outside work, Patty rides horses and spends time with her cat, Meeka.

Lorena joined the team in 2020, eager to deepen her knowledge of cats — animals she felt were too often overlooked compared to dogs. She’s currently earning her Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology at Mercy College and learns from everyone at Cat’s Corner, from technicians and doctors to receptionists and assistants. She has a soft spot for senior patients and can often be found sneaking cuddles with boarding cats between appointments. At home, she dotes on her 20-year-old cat, Nikki, and enjoys time with loved ones and the outdoors.

Krystal joined Cat’s Corner in 2024 as a veterinary technician, having worked in the field since 2019. She earned an Associate of Science in Veterinary Technology from Norwalk Community College, and previously completed an Associate in Fine Art and a cosmetology license — a diverse background that makes her a well-rounded, adaptable member of the team. Outside work, Krystal creates resin artwork, plays nostalgic video games, and keeps busy with a houseful of pets, including her mischievous bird, Larry.

Emily joined Cat’s Corner after four years with the cat team at a rescue, where she worked with cats of every temperament. Eager for a change of pace, she’s enthusiastic about learning from the team and expanding her experience in veterinary care. She loves staying busy and helping look after the cats in the hospital’s care. In her free time, Emily enjoys her adopted cat, Bee, reading, and time with the people she loves.

A lifelong cat lover, Dawn graduated from Northwestern CT Community College in 2010 with an Associate Degree in Veterinary Technology and worked three years as a veterinary technician. She later pursued her sewing skills as a self-employed seamstress and tailor, crafting Renaissance and fantasy costumes, and managed a shelter cattery before joining Cat’s Corner. Outside work she spends time with her fiancé and their adopted cat, Moonlight, and enjoys gaming, cooking, cross-stitch, and funny cat videos.

Melanie came to Cat’s Corner Veterinary Hospital with four years of experience in dog daycare and boarding. Excited for a change and drawn to the calm-yet-busy environment, she’s eager to grow and learn from the team. A lifelong animal lover, she channels that passion into the care field, and her resourceful, multifaceted nature has made her a valued part of Cat’s Corner. Outside work, Melanie is the proud parent of four pets and can often be found curled up with a book or out on a hike.

Lyndsey has always had a passion for working with animals, and she brings that to Cat’s Corner through compassionate, reliable care. As the proud owner of three cats — Benny, Meatloaf, and Subi — she understands firsthand how much patience, love, and attention every cat deserves. Her genuine love for animals shows in the way she helps patients feel safe, comfortable, and well cared for during their time with us.

Bio Coming Soon!