Meet Our Team

David M. Dawkins II, DVM, MADS

Veterinarian, Owner

Dr. Dawkins a Greenville, SC native received his Bachelors of Science degree in Animal and Dairy Science from The University of Georgia. After attaining his BS he went on to earn a Masters degree in Animal and Dairy Science at UGA with a focus on nutrition. After completion of his Masters degree, Dr. Dawkins achieved a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Georgia.

Dr. Dawkins welcomes all aspects of veterinary medicine and has a heightened interest in surgery, dentistry, neurology, and preventive medicine. His goal is to provide the highest level of care possible for his patients while giving a great value to our clients.

When not at the office Dr. Dawkins can be found at home in the kitchen or garden, with his wife and two daughters. Pet family includes 1 dog, 2 cats, 3 chickens, 2 ducks, and 7 feral geese!

A true dawg he says his philosophy is wisdom, justice, and moderation.

Adam Buff, DVM

Associate Veterinarian

Adam was born and raised in Spartanburg, SC. He is a non-traditional student and does not have a degree outside of his DVM. He did, however get his vet school prereqs at Spartanburg Community College and USC Upstate.

His mother has always been a ``collector`` of animals since childhood. He has always been exposed in very high numbers to animals. He also enjoys medicine a lot. Adam began working in vet-med in 2010.

He knew he was in the right profession in 2013 when he started as a technician. He has recently went on to continue his education about Addison's Disease. Within a week of the CE he saw a patient that came into the office with classic signs of the disease that he had just learned about and was able to assist the doctors with the diagnosis and treatment and it was amazing to put knowledge to work.

Adam is passionate about endocrinology, nutrition and feline lower urinary tract health specifically. Endocrinology has always been a passion of his because they are often diseases that pose a diagnostic challenge and can be very rewarding to treat and make significant improvements in an animals quality of life.

He has a wonderful wife, a daughter and a son. He enjoys going to Atlanta Braves games and has an incredible passion for sports cars.

Hayden Ferrell, DVM

Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Ferrell was born and raised in the upstate of South Carolina before attending Clemson University, where he graduated with his Bachelor’s Degree in Animal and Veterinary Sciences in 2018. Following graduation from Clemson, he worked as a vet tech at the Greenville Humane Society for two years before pursuing his lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian. He then graduated with his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Western University of Health Sciences in 2024. Dr. Ferrell’s professional interests include cardiology, wound management, and gastrointestinal disease. Outside of work, Dr. Ferrell enjoys watching Clemson sports, spending time with friends and family, and taking care of his dog, Harambe.

David Balinsky, DVM

Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Dave, the newest addition to our team, was drawn to vet school by an unusual motivation. “I was pursuing knowledge,” he says. Fascinated by the mechanics of how life works, the school gave him a deep understanding of anatomy and physiology, form, and function. David is a native of the Chesapeake Bay area, born and raised in Maryland where he completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Maryland. Chasing the dream of medicine led him away from home. After graduating from the University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine, he started working for a rural mixed animal practice outside of Athens Georgia. There David learned to pair the rough physicality of farm work with the finesse of science communication, best management practices, and husbandry recommendations. “I got stoked on the idea of helping people raise their own food.” Eventually, he learned that while knowledge is great, life is truly about service.

Here at Eastside, Dr. Dave is grateful for the opportunity to work within a locally owned business to offer high quality, reasonably priced medicine. “I feel that we are an integral part of this small community of Spartanburg. What we do matter.” At work you can find him explaining diagnostic results to families, teaching puppies to sit, and cutting out cardboard boxes for his hospitalized feline patients so they feel safer.

Outside of work David loves to travel, see new places, visit with friends and family, or spend time in nature. He often volunteers his time working with wildlife and endangered species. Dr. Dave wholeheartedly believes in a fit for service mentality that includes a low-stress healthy lifestyle of good food, regular exercise, and plenty of rest. He would be willing to invest in anyone who can start a hot yoga community here in Spartanburg.

Mallie Evins King

Practice Manager

Mallie is a Spartanburg native who has been preparing for this particular job for 40 years. You could say this is the family business! I believe my favorite thing is our employees who are passionate about animals and willing to get down and dirty and go the extra mile.

You might recognize her as the first Iditarod Teacher on the Trail, as she traveled the State making Alaska and the Iditarod Sled Dog Race come alive for South Carolina students.

A graduate of the University of Georgia, she is a teacher at heart. Always a student herself she is forever seeking new knowledge. One of Mallie's favorite things about this profession is that for over 15 years they have sent students to vet schools all over the country by providing them with valuable knowledge and training to get there.

In her spare time, she loves to cycle, travel, and cook for her family. Mallie has two Australian Cattle dogs, Ruby and Maggie. She considers her greatest accomplishment to be her two children: daughter Elizabeth is a veterinarian and graduate of the University of Georgia. She and her partner, Dr. David Balinsky, are proud parents of grandchild, Oz. Son, Hamilton, is a UGA grad and lives in Charlotte with his wonderful wife, Dorothy. They are the parents of Walter and Gracie. My three grandchildren are absolutely my pride and joy and the reason I smile... and occasionally need a nap.

Ann

Office Manager

Ann is a native of Glendale and has worked at Eastside Animal Hospital since 2011. With a degree in Economics/Accounting and minor in Classical Piano, Ann made a big career change to begin work in the Veterinary Field. She has placed high importance on caring for animals and rescuing them from a young age. At 12, someone suggested that she should pursue a veterinary career after she cared for a litter of newborn kittens following emergency surgery of their mother. Working at Eastside Animal Hospital allows her to continue that pursuit and assist pet owners in the care of their companions.

Ann lives in Spartanburg with her daughter Jessi and their 2 dogs in a home restored by her family. In her spare time, she enjoys architectural restoration, antiques, music, books, and theater. Every problem is an opportunity waiting to be fulfilled!

Gina

Customer Service Representative

Gina is a Spartanburg native and has worked in the veterinary profession since 2000 and has been part of the EAH team since 2010. She loves working with the office aspects of veterinary medicine, as well as getting to work with pets and help them when they are sick. Gina loves animals and getting to see the babies grow. She gets to deal with the people and the pets! Her goal is to help clients understand what their pets need to keep them healthy and safe.

Married to Jim for over 25 years they have a son, Tyler, and a dog, Bandit. In her free time, she loves to karaoke and sing gospel tunes. Gina says Bandit loves to sing with her.

Miranda

Receptionist

Miranda was born in PA and raised in Marion, SC near Myrtle Beach. She moved to Spartanburg seven years ago to pursue a better career and to be closer to the mountains. She's always had a passion for animals and to be in the industry. Her favorite thing is the animals themselves and being able to help. She's a people person and can easily conform to what is needed. She has patience and compassion for everyone's situations.

She has a small family, none live in the area. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and being able to take her dogs with her on trails or visiting dog parks.

Autumn

Receptionist

Autumn is a dedicated Receptionist at Eastside Animal Hospital. Originally from another town, Autumn moved to her current residence for family reasons. Currently, she's pursuing her education to become a vet tech.

Autumn's journey in the veterinary industry began as a teenager, around the age of 15. She has always had a passion for working with animals and people. Her favorite aspect of the job is the variety it offers each day, dealing with different situations and interacting with various types and breeds of animals.

She realized she was in the right profession when she was warmly welcomed onto the staff at Eastside with open arms, feeling a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

Outside of work, Autumn is a devoted mother to her two daughters, Emma, 13, and Piper, 11. She shares her home with horses, dogs, chickens, and cats, showcasing her love for animals. Autumn has been happily married for 15 years, cherishing the life she has built with her family.

Gianna

Receptionist

Amber

Head Veterinary Assistant

Amber was born and raised in Spartanburg, SC and always knew she wanted to work in animal health care - she never aspired to do anything else. It is very rewarding to be able to help animals - Amber says ``I know I'm where I'm supposed to be.``

She married her husband in 2010 and their family is made up of a daughter and son, 4 dogs, 2 cats, and a rabbit. On the weekends you might find them at their daughter's soccer games, volunteering through AYSO, spending time with their fur babies, or taking short day trips to new places.

Emily

Veterinary Assistant

Emily is a local who is currently attending the Penn Foster Vet Tech Program. Growing up, she always had a passion for and connection with animals. Any animal was interesting to her and she knew one day she would end up working with them. In her own words: ``Honestly, I knew I was in the right profession on the first day of my job working here at Eastside. I had never worked in a vets office before but I was so eager to finally dive into what I had been dreaming of working with animals that it immediately clicked. I was afraid of failing and possibly not feeling as passionate about this line of work as I had growing up, but my fear was immediately dismissed.``

When she's not at work, Emily spends time with family and uses her cosmetology license to help friends and family with hair and make up. She also dances and weight lifts, where she has set 10 records for weight lifting.

Crystal

Veterinary Assistant

Crystal attended a vet tech college until it closed down. She then moved to the town she currently resides in to be closer to family.

Crystal's passion for working in the veterinary industry stems from her love of animals, which started at a young age. Her favorite thing about working with animals is witnessing their improvement in every way possible.

Crystal knew she was in the right profession when she felt a rush of excitement to return to work and help animals in need.

Outside of work, Crystal finds inspiration in her parents and siblings, who motivate her to become a better person.

Vallerie

Veterinary Assistant

Vallerie's educational journey includes high school and Penn Foster!

Driven by a profound love for animals, Vallerie found her calling in the veterinary industry. She is particularly passionate about surgery, drawing blood, and the medical aspects of her work. Her earliest exposure to the veterinary world, courtesy of her oldest sister, ignited her lifelong affection for the profession.

Outside of work, Vallerie cherishes time spent with her three children and a menagerie of pets: five dogs, one cat, and two horses. She also dedicates part of her time to Wildwoods Ranch.

Savannah

Veterinary Assistant

Savannah is a compassionate Veterinarian Assistant at Eastside Animal Hospital. Born and raised in Spartanburg, SC, Savannah attended Gettys D. Broome High School before pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Business Minor at Wofford College.

Savannah's childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian led her to the veterinary industry. She believes animals deserve the highest quality treatment and admires the loyal companionship they provide. Her favorite aspect of working with animals is witnessing the intimate bond between patients and their beloved pets.

She knew she was in the right profession when she saw previously sick or injured pets go home to their families happy and healthy due to the care they received.

Outside of work, Savannah enjoys spending time with her family, which includes two brothers, a younger sister, and two stepbrothers. She also shares her home with two dogs, Allie and Dixie, and a flock of sixteen chickens. In her free time, Savannah indulges in reading, traveling, running, and actively participating in community initiatives.

Jordan

Veterinary Assistant

With a lifelong passion for animals, Jordan found her calling in the veterinary industry. Ever since she was a child, she has been deeply connected to animals and has always enjoyed taking care of horses, which she has had the pleasure of owning.

Working with animals brings Jordan immense joy and fulfillment. She finds great satisfaction in witnessing the recovery and well-being of patients under her care. The moment she sees happy and healthy animals go home after receiving treatment, she knows she is in the right profession, making a positive impact on their lives.

Beyond her work at the veterinary clinic, Jordan remains dedicated to her love for horses. She not only enjoys taking care of them but also actively participates in showing them. In her free time, she cherishes moments spent with her beloved dogs, Ozzy and Remi, creating lasting memories and enjoying their company.

Nataliia

Veterinary Assistant

Nataliia is a skilled Veterinary Assistant who joined the team at Eastside Animal Hospital after moving to the United States from Ukraine three years ago due to the war. She holds a degree in veterinary medicine, having studied for five years at a university in her home country. She now resides in Spartanburg, where she moved to be close to her sister.

With a deep passion for animals and a strong desire to help both pets and their owners, Nataliia finds fulfillment in caring for animals and supporting their well-being. Her favorite part of the job is the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of pets and the people who love them.

Outside of her role at the animal hospital, Nataliia works as a florist. She especially enjoys creating floral arrangements, with bouquets being her favorite. Her favorite flower is the pink peony, a reflection of her artistic and caring personality.

Sarah

Veterinary Assistant

Sarah is a dedicated Veterinary Assistant at Eastside Animal Hospital who has always had a deep love for animals. Originally from out of town, she moved to Spartanburg to live with her boyfriend and quickly found her place within the local veterinary community. Sarah’s lifelong passion for animal care led her to pursue a career in the veterinary field, where she thrives on the opportunity to help pets heal and improve. Her favorite part of the job is witnessing the transformation of animals as they recover—knowing she played a part in their journey back to health is both fulfilling and inspiring.

Sarah knew she was in the right profession when she realized how rewarding it was to make a difference in the lives of animals every day. Whether she's helping a sick pet feel better or simply giving love and attention to a furry patient, Sarah brings compassion and dedication to everything she does. Outside of work, she enjoys going to concerts, spending time with friends, and relaxing at home. She also loves taking walks with her dog and soaking up the sunshine by the pool. With two sisters, a stepsister, and a stepbrother, family is also an important part of her life.

Shawn

Veterinary Assistant

Shawn is a Veterinary Assistant at Eastside Animal Hospital. Born in Michigan and raised in South Carolina, Shawn earned a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from Michigan State University before pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. His passion for animals and his goal of eventually becoming a Veterinarian led him into the veterinary industry, where he enjoys learning, growing, and working hands-on with patients. Shawn knew he was in the right profession when he began interacting with animals in both academic and professional settings, experiences that helped confirm a lifelong passion and shape his career path. Outside of work, he comes from a large family with eight siblings and shares his home with five cats and two dogs. In his free time, Shawn enjoys spending time with family, listening to music, and learning new things.

Alissa

Veterinary Assistant

Alissa is currently still in school. She began working in the veterinary industry because she really enjoys working with animals. The reason she knew she was in the right profession was because she's been able to stay focused and will not give up!

Alissa has two sisters, their names are Skylynn, age 12, and Zoey, age 8. Her moms name is Rattray and her dads name is Chase. She loves to be outdoors and explore. She also loves spending time with her animals and her family. Her mom is her biggest inspiration, she pushes her to do whatever she wants to do.

Ashton

Veterinary Assistant

Ashton joined the team as a Veterinary Assistant in October 2024. Originally born in Spartanburg, she moved to Sylva, North Carolina, at the age of three, and later returned to Spartanburg at seventeen to be closer to her family. Currently, Ashton is pursuing her education to become a licensed Veterinary Technician.

Her lifelong passion for animals and desire to be their advocate inspired her to enter the veterinary field. For as long as she can remember, Ashton has felt a calling to help animals with compassion and care. She finds the most fulfillment in being a voice for the voiceless, ensuring they receive the attention and empathy they deserve.

Ashton knew she had found the right profession when her work no longer felt like a job—it became a meaningful part of her life. She genuinely enjoys each day she comes into the clinic, driven by purpose and dedication.

Outside of work, Ashton cherishes time with her husband, Justin, to whom she has been married for nearly nine years. Together, they have two beautiful daughters, Layla and Kirah, aged 5 and 8. Ashton loves exploring new places with her family and making lasting memories in her free time.

Danielle

Kennel Assistant

Danielle is a dedicated Kennel Assistant who joined the team in January 2025. A lifelong resident of Spartanburg, South Carolina, she has deep roots in the community. She graduated from Spartanburg Methodist College in May 2024 with an Associate’s degree in Science. Shortly thereafter, she earned her Veterinary Assistant certification during the summer of 2024 and is certified in dog and cat First Aid and CPR. She is currently continuing her education through the Penn Foster Veterinary Technician program.

Danielle’s passion for animal care began in childhood, inspired by a lifelong dream of becoming a veterinary technician. Her favorite part of working in the veterinary field is the opportunity to care for animals and help them feel better, fulfilling a purpose she has held close to her heart since she was young.

Max

Kennel Assistant

He is a Kennel Assistant at Eastside Animal Hospital. After graduating high school, he completed online Veterinary Assistant coursework through SCC, motivated by a lifelong passion for helping animals. Having already trusted Eastside Animal Hospital with his own dog’s care, he knew it was the right place to begin his veterinary career. He joined the team in May 2025 and continues to build his knowledge of veterinary medicine.

His love for animals began in childhood, often caring for stray kittens and puppies whenever possible. Helping animals in need has always been a dream of his, and he finds fulfillment in providing compassionate care to patients and supporting their owners.

He knew he was in the right profession when a dog stayed at the hospital for an extended recovery following a foreign body removal before being adopted. Forming a strong bond during the dog’s recovery and seeing him go to a loving home reinforced his passion for helping animals heal and thrive.

Outside of work, he lives with his mom, two siblings, and his dog in a close-knit home filled with laughter and support. He enjoys creating art through crocheting, painting, drawing, and wood carving, and has a strong interest in evolutionary science and the history of animals from millions of years ago. He strives to greet every client and patient with kindness and a smile, believing compassion can make a meaningful difference.

Gabriel

Kennel Assistant

He is a Kennel Assistant at Eastside Animal Hospital. Born and raised in Spartanburg, Gabriel spent his childhood years on a farm, where he was homeschooled. He was looking for a first job and had always been around animals on his farm, plus his grandma used to raise english sheperds. Which is why he began working in the veterinary industry. He loves working with all the pets and seeing their owners happy to see they got the care they needed.

Gabriel lives at home with his mom. He enjoys doing yard work, going through nature trails, and gaming. Chap is his horse, and Teddy, Arthur, Piper, and Ernie are his four cats.

Isabella

Kennel Assistant

She is a Kennel Assistant at Eastside Animal Hospital. Isabella began working in the veterinary industry because she has always been a big animal lover and enjoys working hands-on with animals every day. Originally from upstate New York, she moved to Spartanburg and finished high school there. She knew she was in the right profession when she got to work with puppies and kittens to help make them feel better.
Outside of work, Isabella has a strong love for JDM cars and art. She enjoys creating and posting her artwork online and sharing her creative projects with others.

Erica

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