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.

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.

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, DVM, is a skilled and compassionate veterinarian at Eastside Animal Hospital. Born and raised in Greenville, South Carolina, Dr. Ferrell has always had a deep connection to his hometown. He completed his undergraduate studies at Clemson University in 2018, earning a degree in Animal and Veterinary Sciences, before pursuing his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Western University of Health Sciences, where he graduated in May 2024.

Dr. Ferrell's journey into veterinary medicine began with a lifelong passion for animals. His early experiences shadowing veterinarians and working as a technician solidified his desire to pursue this career. One pivotal moment came in 2018 when he worked as a veterinary technician at the Greenville Humane Society, where he knew without a doubt that he had found his calling.

Dr. Ferrell’s professional interests include surgery, cardiology, and internal medicine. He is dedicated to providing high-quality care and values the relationships he forms with both his patients and their owners. His approach to veterinary medicine focuses on building trust and delivering personalized treatment to ensure the well-being of every animal he encounters.

Outside of work, Dr. Ferrell enjoys an active lifestyle. He is a passionate fan of Clemson sports, an avid runner, and loves spending time with his family and friends. He remains deeply connected to his roots in Greenville, where he enjoys the support of his family, girlfriend, and a close-knit group of friends.

Mallie Evins King

Practice Manager

Mallie is a Spartanburg native who has been preparing for this particular job for 35 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 (come join her at CycleBar Spartanburg!), 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. Son, Hamilton, is a UGA grad and lives in Charlotte with his wonderful wife, Dorothy. They are the parents of Walter, Grand Mallie's pride and joy.

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.

Sally

Customer Service Representative

Sally joined EAH as a receptionist in 2017. She was born and raised in Spartanburg. Being a caregiver is one of her biggest passions, and she loves to work with both people and pets. This is how she knew she was in the right profession - she enjoys going to work and doesn't view it as just a ``job``.

Sally lives in Cowpens with her husband and 6 children. You might find them spending time together at the beach or hanging out by the pool!

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.

Angelyca

Receptionist

Angelyca serves as a Receptionist at Eastside Animal Hospital. Originally from Pensacola, Angelyca pursued her education at Pensacola State College before embarking on a journey to South Korea to pursue her passion for dance. Upon returning to her hometown, Angelyca decided to stay after meeting her husband.

Her entry into the veterinary industry began with roles in animal care, specifically in dog boarding and daycare facilities. Through these experiences, Angelyca discovered her love for working with animals and decided to continue her career in this field. Her favorite part of the job is being able to assist in helping and saving adorable animals every day.

Angelyca knew she was in the right profession when coming to work became the most exciting part of her day. She finds joy in her job and cherishes the opportunity to work alongside her amazing coworkers.

Outside of Eastside Animal Hospital, Angelyca is passionate about dancing and teaching Zumba classes. She finds fulfillment in working out and dancing, which contribute to her happiness and well-being. When she's not at work, Angelyca can be found at the gym or spending time with her friends and family.

Amber

Head Veterinary Technician

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 Technician

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.

Ethan

Veterinary Technician

Ethan started volunteering for Eastside in January of 2021 and became a full time worker in March of 2021. He is a new graduate of USC Upstate, where he got a B.S. in biology with a pre-vet focus.

He started in the veterinarian industry in 2021, but had worked with animals beforehand in a few shelters and an animal sanctuary. His favorite thing about working with animals is being able to help save an animal that would not have survived if left untreated. He knew he was in the right profession because he loved learning in school and being able to apply them in real life on the job.

Ethan loves working and learning new things in school. He also spent some time in Africa working on a cheetah breeding farm and an animal sanctuary, where he had the opportunity to work with a variety of animals including cheetahs, lions, leopards, a tiger and many more.

Crystal

Veterinary Technician

Crystal attended some 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 Technician

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.

Connor

Veterinary Technician

Connor joined the team in May 2023 and has since become an invaluable member of the staff. Connor, who prefers he/him/his pronouns, hails from Hartsville, SC, and holds a degree in History from Winthrop University. Currently, he is pursuing his prerequisites as a non-traditional graduate student at USC Upstate, with the goal of attending veterinary school.

Connor's passion for animals and their well-being led him to the veterinary industry. Growing up, he raised dogs, cats, and even livestock, which provided him with valuable hands-on experience and sparked his love for caring for animals. Witnessing the profound impact that well-practiced medicine can have on both animals and their owners is Connor's favorite aspect of working with animals. He finds fulfillment in seeing the positive changes and improved quality of life that veterinary care can bring.

Connor's professional journey has reaffirmed his belief that he is in the right profession. He appreciates the intellectual stimulation and hands-on nature of veterinary medicine, which allows him to continuously learn and grow while making a meaningful difference in the lives of animals.

Outside of work, Connor enjoys spending time with his wife, Rebekah, and their beloved 4-year-old great Pyrenees named Clyde. In his free time, he indulges in his passion for music, weightlifting, and tending to his vegetable garden. Connor leads a fulfilling life, both inside and outside of the veterinary practice, driven by his unwavering dedication to animals and their well-being.

Rattray

Veterinary Technician

Rattray is a dedicated Veterinary Technician at Eastside Animal Hospital. Originally from Inman, she attended Chapman High School and has lived her entire life in the same house she grew up in.

Rattray's journey into the veterinary industry was driven by her strong passion for animals and a belief in advocating for their well-being. She found her favorite thing about working with animals to be the opportunity to be their voice and provide them with compassionate care.

She knew she was in the right profession when she felt at home. Having always been in healthcare, Rattray found working with animals to be where she truly belonged. It felt like coming home to her.

Outside of work, Rattray enjoys spending time with her family. She shares her life with her husband Chase Miller and their three beautiful daughters, Alissa, Skylynn, and Zoey. Their weekends are often filled with outdoor activities such as fishing, attending dirt track races, and playing with their animals. They love exploring new places, especially in the mountains or on the water, and relish in the beauty of nature.

David D.

Veterinary Technician

David was born and raised in Mexico and later moved to South Carolina at the age of 16 when his father was transferred. After spending some time in California, he returned to South Carolina at the age of 22. David is currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Biology.

His passion for animals and a desire to become a veterinarian led David to start working in the veterinary industry. From a young age, he had a deep love for animals and found joy in making them feel better. While working with animals, David discovered a particular interest in laboratory work and analyzing samples.

What he loves most about working with animals is witnessing the positive transformation in their demeanor when they start feeling better. This brings him a sense of fulfillment and reassurance that he is in the right profession. David's journey in the veterinary field began when he started volunteering at animal hospitals at the age of 18, solidifying his passion for caring for animals.

Outside of work, David enjoys maintaining an active lifestyle. He loves working out and participating in boxing activities. Spending quality time with his loved ones is also important to him. In addition to his interest in animals, David has a passion for learning languages, as well as reading about history and foreign cultures.

Destiny M.

Veterinary Technician

Destiny is a Veterinary Technician who joined the team in August 2023. Born and raised in Spartanburg, she holds an associates degree in Criminal Justice. Destiny's passion for animals dates back to her childhood, where she owned and adored them. Her journey into the veterinary industry was a natural progression fueled by this lifelong passion. She finds immense fulfillment in the daily challenges and the opportunity to care for a variety of animals. Destiny vividly recalls her first day on the job, realizing instantly that she had found her calling.

Outside of work, Destiny enjoys a vibrant family life with her high school sweetheart, with whom she shares two energetic boys named Dawson and Wilder. Their household is bustling with the companionship of dogs, cats, and even a pig, ensuring there's never a dull moment. When not at work, Destiny cherishes spending quality time with her family and nurturing their beloved animals.

Savannah

Veterinary Technician

Savannah is a compassionate Veterinarian Technician 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.

Alissa

Kennel 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.

Gabriel

Kennel Assistant

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.

Jordan

Kennel 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.

Gilbert

Kennel Assistant

Gilbert is a Kennel Technician at Eastside Animal Hospital. Originally from La Romana, a small province in the Dominican Republic, Gilbert moved to the United States in 2016 and graduated from Spartanburg High School.

Gilbert's journey into the veterinary industry was sparked by curiosity about career options. He found his favorite aspect of working with animals to be the variety and enjoyment of each interaction.

He knew he was in the right profession when he noticed how wholesome and interesting his interactions with both patients and coworkers were.

Outside of work, Gilbert enjoys various hobbies. He finds relaxation in taking care of his fish tanks, building model kits, and learning new things. He values spending time with his family, playing video games, and indulging in writing as well.

Sophia

Kennel Assistant

Sophia is a dedicated Kennel Assistant at Eastside Animal Hospital, LLC. Born and raised in Spartanburg, SC, Sophia currently attends Spartanburg High School. Her deep-rooted love for animals has been a constant in her life, nurtured by growing up with many pets. This passion was further ignited when her mother brought home an application for Eastside Animal Hospital after a routine visit with their family dogs.

From her very first week at Eastside, Sophia knew she had found her calling. The combination of caring for animals and working alongside a supportive team confirmed her aspirations in the veterinary field. Her favorite aspect of her job is the joy and fulfillment that comes from both the animals and the people she interacts with daily.

Outside of work, Sophia is the middle child of three and enjoys a well-rounded life. She plays Lacrosse at her high school, spends quality time with friends, and indulges in her love for reading whenever she gets the chance. Looking ahead, Sophia aspires to continue her education and eventually become a veterinarian, a dream she is determined to achieve following her graduation from high school.