Meet Our Staff

Dr. Steve Milden's passion for animals started early, leading him to earn his Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the University of Pennsylvania in 1986. He continued his studies at Penn, graduating with his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (VMD) in 1990. After honing his skills as an associate veterinarian, Dr. Milden's entrepreneurial spirit took flight in 1994 when he founded the Delaware Valley Veterinary Hospital in a unique location – a former TV repair shop!

Starting small but driven by dedication, Dr. Milden steadily built the practice. In 2001, he realized his vision by moving the hospital to a spacious, newly built facility. Today, the thriving practice boasts a team of 11 veterinarians and over 85 staff members, operating 24/7/365 to serve the community's animal companions. With a focus on excellence, the hospital achieved the prestigious AAHA accreditation, and all its doctors actively contribute to their profession through memberships in AAHA, AVMA, and NJVMA.

Dr. Milden's expertise extends beyond the walls of his practice. He is a sought-after speaker, sharing his knowledge with pharmaceutical companies on topics ranging from parasitology and zoonotic diseases to dermatology and pain management. He also believes in inspiring the next generation, volunteering his time to speak at local schools about careers in veterinary medicine.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Dr. Milden enjoys a fulfilling personal life. Married for over 30 years to his wife Wendy, they have raised four children: three sons and a daughter who proudly carries on the veterinary legacy. With one granddaughter already enriching their lives, their home is a bustling haven for rescued animals, including dogs, a cat, koi fish, and a lively brood of chickens and ducks – a testament to Dr. Milden's love for all creatures great and small.

Dr. Steve Milden's journey exemplifies the power of passion, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit. He is a respected veterinarian, a leader in his community, and a true animal advocate, reminding us that sometimes, the best things in life start in unexpected places, even a former TV repair shop!

Graduated from The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, in 2000. Prior to this, she received her undergraduate degree in biology from Adelphi University in Garden City, New York. A native of south New Jersey, she joined the Delaware Valley Veterinary Hospital in 2001. She is married and shares her home with two daughters, two rescued pit bulls, three cats, and chickens! In her free time, she stays busy by baking, gardening, running, and supporting her daughters' collegiate endeavors. Dr. Balsama is a Boston qualified marathon runner and a member of the S.W.A.R.M running group.

* The medical director for Delaware Valley Veterinary Hospital

*serves on the board of directors for Gypsy Rose Animal Foundation

*special interest in surgery and mentoring veterinary students and new graduates

Dr. Julie graduated from Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2004. Along with treating and helping dogs and cats, she has a special interest in small rodents, ferrets and rabbits. Outside of caring for pets, Dr. Julie enjoys spending time with her husband, her 10 year old son and their rescued cat Linus. In her spare time Dr. Julie likes to read, bake and attend church. Delaware Valley Veterinary Hospital is proud to have Dr. Julie on our team for over 20 years.

Dr. Frank graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 2015. She received her undergraduate degree in Biology at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. A native of Altoona, Pennsylvania, she joined the practice after graduation. Dr. Frank currently shares her home with her husband, Bucky, daughter, Eleanor, 5 cats, and 1 dog. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, cross-stitching, and painting with her daughter.

Graduated from Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1986. She received her undergraduate degree in Biology and Animal Science from Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, AL. Dr. Thompson-Watkins now resides in New Jersey, and she joined Delaware Valley Veterinary Hospital in June 2015. She is married with three children, including a set of fraternal twins, and she shares her home with two dogs, a cat, two parrots, and fish. When she is not caring for patients, she enjoys teaching and traveling. She is also very active in church-related activities as a Eucharistic Minister, and minister to the sick and homebound.

Graduated from Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine in 2018

Graduated from Virginia Tech Undergrad in 2014

Born and raised in Mullica Hill

Happily married to Emily in 2023, and live with our two dogs Bones and Birdy, two cats Flora and Fauna, and two birds Quaker and Petunia

At home I enjoy cooking and gardening

Worked at Delaware Valley for 6 years in June

Dr. Stipp grew up in South Harrison, NJ where she started at Delaware Valley Veterinary Hospital as a veterinary technician in 2012.

She graduated from Delaware Valley College with an animal science degree with livestock specialization.

She then pursued her career in veterinary medicine at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine graduating with a mixed animal focus (Go Vols!).

She came back to South Jersey where she resides in Salem County with her husband, three dogs, horse, and nine cows.

Dr. Stipp started at Delaware Valley Veterinary Hospital as a veterinarian in May 2021.

She loves seeing all patients, both big and small, livestock and companion animals.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, friends and family, showing cattle, horseback riding and cooking/baking.

Graduated from The University of Sydney, Australia in 2022. Dr. Tracey grew up working along side her father at Delaware Valley Veterinary Hospital as a kennel technician, a receptionist, a veterinary assistant and has now finally joined the team as a veterinarian. She currently shares her home with her partner, Daniel their two dogs, Rory and Eevee, and cat, Tilly. In her time off, Dr. Tracey and Rory spend time visiting many people for Therapy Dog sessions. In addition, she is deeply involved in homesteading and caring for her chickens and Livestock Guardian Dog, Blink. She aspires to expand her homestead to include goats, cows and pigs, further enriching her connection with the natural world.

Graduated from Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2023, and received her bachelor's degree in Small Animal Science from Delaware Valley University in 2019. Dr. Sam grew up in Swedesboro and is happy to be back in South Jersey! She has 3 dogs named Stanley, Mia, and Mylo along with a cat named Hazel and a bird named Ozzy! Outside of work, Dr. Sam loves playing with her fur babies, hanging out with her friends and family, lounging on the beach, spending time outside gardening, and traveling or experiencing new places.

Meet Dr. Marcella Mancini, one of our passionate veterinarians here at Delaware Valley Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Mancini’s love for animals took root early, blossoming through her years at the University of Delaware. She then chased her dreams to Western University of Health Sciences, where she earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in May 2023.

Dr. Mancini isn’t new to our team—she’s been a beloved member since 2018, starting as a technician and working her way up. Her journey from tech to doctor has given her a unique perspective and deep connection with both our furry patients and their human families. At home, Dr. Mancini’s life is a whirlwind of wagging tails and purring cuddles. She shares her space with four cats and three dogs, making her home a true animal haven. Her pets are her pride and joy, and they inspire her to provide the best care for every pet she treats.

With her infectious enthusiasm and genuine love for animals, Dr. Mancini is thrilled to continue her journey with us, ensuring every visit is a pawsitive experience for you and your pets!

Dr. Praslicka graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2010 after earning a bachelors degree in Biomedical Science from Texas A and M University in 2006. He was born and raised in Waxahachie, Texas. After completing his education, he embarked on a career in veterinary medicine, initially practicing for a year in his home state before relocating to South Jersey. Dr. Praslicka shares his home with his wife, two daughters and a cat named Gus. He enjoys spending time with his family, anything outside and all sports.