Meet Our Team
Dr. Nicholas Spaccarelli
Owner & Veterinarian
Dr. Nicholas Spaccarelli grew up in the Hudson Valley, where he enjoyed hundreds of acres of forest right in his backyard. Animals were a part of his life from day one – he spent time with everything from cats and dogs to chickens, rabbits, chinchillas, and pigeons. Dr. Spaccarelli’s early experiences caring for animals made one thing very clear: a career in the veterinary world was the perfect path for him. Now, he’s proud to care for both pets and their owners as the owner and operator of Stone Cottage Veterinary Hospital!
Dr. Spaccarelli attended veterinary school on the island of St. Kitts in the Caribbean and even taught there for four years. He purchased Stone Cottage Veterinary Hospital in January 2016 and has been tending to the needs of the area’s pet owners and animal companions ever since. Around the hospital, Dr. Spaccarelli likes the hands-on nature of surgical work and seeing a pet walk out of the clinic healthier and happier than when they arrived, thanks to his team’s hard work. He’s also passionate about maintaining a family-like atmosphere at the hospital that is constantly supportive, nurturing, and fun.
In his free time, Dr. Spaccarelli loves staying active outdoors – surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, fishing, hiking, and traveling are a few of his favorite activities – and cooking and trying new cuisines. He and his beautiful wife, Megan, are proud to raise their two daughters, Mackenzie and Madison, around many of the same animals he grew up with; the family recently added Sally the tortoise to their ranks!
Dr. Spaccarelli attended veterinary school on the island of St. Kitts in the Caribbean and even taught there for four years. He purchased Stone Cottage Veterinary Hospital in January 2016 and has been tending to the needs of the area’s pet owners and animal companions ever since. Around the hospital, Dr. Spaccarelli likes the hands-on nature of surgical work and seeing a pet walk out of the clinic healthier and happier than when they arrived, thanks to his team’s hard work. He’s also passionate about maintaining a family-like atmosphere at the hospital that is constantly supportive, nurturing, and fun.
In his free time, Dr. Spaccarelli loves staying active outdoors – surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, fishing, hiking, and traveling are a few of his favorite activities – and cooking and trying new cuisines. He and his beautiful wife, Megan, are proud to raise their two daughters, Mackenzie and Madison, around many of the same animals he grew up with; the family recently added Sally the tortoise to their ranks!
Dr. Lyndsey Duda
Associate Veterinarian
Growing up on a hobby farm, Dr. Lyndsey Duda has always found herself surrounded by animals, from horses and cows, to chickens and goats, to countless dogs and cats. After shadowing her equine veterinarian for a summer, she shifted her focus to veterinary medicine. As one of Stone Cottage’s Associate Veterinarians, Dr. Lyndsey takes pride in helping sick animals become well again – particularly those who haven’t been given much chance.
Dr. Lyndsey received her undergraduate degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, a heavy science and research-based school. She then attended Ross University and completed her clinical year at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. She graduated in 2014 and worked in St. Lawrence County, NY, before returning to Orange County.
In practice, Dr. Lyndsey has a special interest in dermatology and providing relief to uncomfortable dogs and cats. She also enjoys preventative medicine because it decreases illnesses in the long run and internal medicine cases because, while they may be difficult to diagnose and manage, she always learns from them.
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Lyndsey lives with her fiancé. Together, they have three dogs, a horse, and a cat. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, reading, horseback riding, and spending time with her fur babies.
Dr. Lyndsey received her undergraduate degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, a heavy science and research-based school. She then attended Ross University and completed her clinical year at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. She graduated in 2014 and worked in St. Lawrence County, NY, before returning to Orange County.
In practice, Dr. Lyndsey has a special interest in dermatology and providing relief to uncomfortable dogs and cats. She also enjoys preventative medicine because it decreases illnesses in the long run and internal medicine cases because, while they may be difficult to diagnose and manage, she always learns from them.
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Lyndsey lives with her fiancé. Together, they have three dogs, a horse, and a cat. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, reading, horseback riding, and spending time with her fur babies.
Dr. Alexis Fitch
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Fitch received her undergraduate degree in veterinary technology from Mercy College, as well as an undergraduate degree in history from SUNY New Paltz. Dr. Fitch received her DVM degree at Ross University and was a part of the Phi Zeta Honors Society.
When she’s not working, Dr. Fitch enjoys reading and spending time with family, friends, and her fiancé Johnny. She also spends her time cuddling with her recently adopted 1-year-old pit mix, Mason. Dr. Fitch met Mason during her externship in vet school after he was pulled from a hoarding situation in the Carolinas. She couldn’t help falling in love with him (neither could we when we met him) and describes him as a lemon pup, making him all the more lovable. She has a special interest in internal medicine and behavioral medicine.
When she’s not working, Dr. Fitch enjoys reading and spending time with family, friends, and her fiancé Johnny. She also spends her time cuddling with her recently adopted 1-year-old pit mix, Mason. Dr. Fitch met Mason during her externship in vet school after he was pulled from a hoarding situation in the Carolinas. She couldn’t help falling in love with him (neither could we when we met him) and describes him as a lemon pup, making him all the more lovable. She has a special interest in internal medicine and behavioral medicine.
Chessie
Hospital Administrator
Chessie, a Newburgh native, brings a deep passion for animals and a strong commitment to client service to her role as Hospital Administrator. Her journey into veterinary medicine was a natural fit—driven by a lifelong love for animals and a desire to work in a setting that reflects that passion.
Chessie joined the clinic in October 2019. Her dedication, leadership, and excellent rapport with both clients and colleagues quickly earned her a spot as Stone Cottage’s Hospital Administrator. She thrives on connecting with pet owners in the community, continuously learning, and sharing her knowledge with others.
Chessie finds joy in every aspect of her work—from supporting her team to welcoming new furry visitors to the clinic. Her approachability and enthusiasm have made her an integral part of the hospital’s culture and client experience.
Outside of the clinic, Chessie enjoys hiking, participating in local events, and spending time with her husband, Jordan, and their two pets: Kimber Rose, a spirited outdoor-loving dog, and Duck, a playful kitten known for his impressive fetch skills.
Chessie joined the clinic in October 2019. Her dedication, leadership, and excellent rapport with both clients and colleagues quickly earned her a spot as Stone Cottage’s Hospital Administrator. She thrives on connecting with pet owners in the community, continuously learning, and sharing her knowledge with others.
Chessie finds joy in every aspect of her work—from supporting her team to welcoming new furry visitors to the clinic. Her approachability and enthusiasm have made her an integral part of the hospital’s culture and client experience.
Outside of the clinic, Chessie enjoys hiking, participating in local events, and spending time with her husband, Jordan, and their two pets: Kimber Rose, a spirited outdoor-loving dog, and Duck, a playful kitten known for his impressive fetch skills.
Harley
Office Manager
Harley’s passion for animal care was sparked early in life by the remarkable bond she witnessed between her father and his service dog, Enzo. This deep connection not only inspired her love for animals but also laid the foundation for her career in the veterinary field.
Her journey began with pet-sitting for friends and family, and as soon as she was eligible for employment, she joined a local pet store to gain hands-on experience. Eager to expand her knowledge and deepen her impact, Harley transitioned into the veterinary industry. Since joining the team in 2021, Harley has served as a CSR, Veterinary Assistant and now our Front End Lead! She is excited to be part of a team where continuous learning and professional growth are encouraged.
Harley thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment that requires strong multitasking skills and attention to detail. She enjoys the challenges each day brings and remains committed to advancing her education within the veterinary field.
At home, Harley is a proud pet parent to a spirited miniature Australian Shepherd named Daisy—affectionately known as “Crazy Daisy”—who’s best known for her unique talent of removing socks on command. She also shares her home with three beloved cats, MoMo, Phoebe and Essie, who happily keep things in order.
Her journey began with pet-sitting for friends and family, and as soon as she was eligible for employment, she joined a local pet store to gain hands-on experience. Eager to expand her knowledge and deepen her impact, Harley transitioned into the veterinary industry. Since joining the team in 2021, Harley has served as a CSR, Veterinary Assistant and now our Front End Lead! She is excited to be part of a team where continuous learning and professional growth are encouraged.
Harley thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment that requires strong multitasking skills and attention to detail. She enjoys the challenges each day brings and remains committed to advancing her education within the veterinary field.
At home, Harley is a proud pet parent to a spirited miniature Australian Shepherd named Daisy—affectionately known as “Crazy Daisy”—who’s best known for her unique talent of removing socks on command. She also shares her home with three beloved cats, MoMo, Phoebe and Essie, who happily keep things in order.
Emily
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Emily grew up in Dutchess County with her parents, sister, and plenty of family pets. When she started living in New York City, she worked as a pet sitter. Emily loved working with animals so much that she decided to look into career paths in the veterinary world! Her passion has come full circle: she’s a Veterinary Technician at Stone Cottage Veterinary Hospital.
After her time in New York City, Emily moved back to the Hudson Valley. She signed on at the State University of New York-Ulster to study veterinary technology. She first joined the Stone Cottage Veterinary Hospital team as an intern while finishing up her degree and was delighted to stay on staff as a Veterinary Technician after her coursework was over.
Around the hospital, Emily is fond of surgical work and finds that no two procedures are quite the same. For her, nothing is more rewarding than watching a patient’s road to full recovery! Emily’s favorite part of her job is getting to meet pet owners just like herself on a daily basis.
Emily and her partner, Kevin, share their home with their newly adopted dog, Chyna. When she isn’t going on long hikes with Chyna or spending time with others’ furry family members here at the hospital, Emily loves reading, baking, and gardening.
After her time in New York City, Emily moved back to the Hudson Valley. She signed on at the State University of New York-Ulster to study veterinary technology. She first joined the Stone Cottage Veterinary Hospital team as an intern while finishing up her degree and was delighted to stay on staff as a Veterinary Technician after her coursework was over.
Around the hospital, Emily is fond of surgical work and finds that no two procedures are quite the same. For her, nothing is more rewarding than watching a patient’s road to full recovery! Emily’s favorite part of her job is getting to meet pet owners just like herself on a daily basis.
Emily and her partner, Kevin, share their home with their newly adopted dog, Chyna. When she isn’t going on long hikes with Chyna or spending time with others’ furry family members here at the hospital, Emily loves reading, baking, and gardening.
Lauren
Licensed Veterinary Technician
When Lauren was growing up, her love for animals was so evident that she lost count of how often she was told to become a vet. While the idea made sense, deep down, she was worried that she wouldn’t be able to handle caring for animals who were in pain. After a brief stint photographing pets, Lauren finally put her fear aside. Now, as a Veterinary Technician, she finds being a voice for the voiceless and relieving the pain and suffering of animals even more rewarding than she ever could have imagined!
While attending school to become a Licensed Veterinary Technician, Lauren worked as a Veterinary Assistant at several small animal clinics on Long Island. Upon graduating and successfully passing her state board exam, Lauren relocated to Ulster County and officially joined the Stone Cottage team.
Clinically, Lauren finds the entire surgery process fascinating, from getting patients settled in to ensuring they remain calm and comfortable throughout their procedure to watching them go home to their owners. She particularly enjoys foreign body surgeries and is consistently amazed at what she discovers!
Lauren currently resides in New Paltz with her boyfriend, Andrew. Their fur family consists of a Yorkie named Zoey and two long-haired black cats – Binx and Onyx – the couple’s pride and joy. In her free time, she enjoys photography, hiking, hammocking, yoga, and running.
While attending school to become a Licensed Veterinary Technician, Lauren worked as a Veterinary Assistant at several small animal clinics on Long Island. Upon graduating and successfully passing her state board exam, Lauren relocated to Ulster County and officially joined the Stone Cottage team.
Clinically, Lauren finds the entire surgery process fascinating, from getting patients settled in to ensuring they remain calm and comfortable throughout their procedure to watching them go home to their owners. She particularly enjoys foreign body surgeries and is consistently amazed at what she discovers!
Lauren currently resides in New Paltz with her boyfriend, Andrew. Their fur family consists of a Yorkie named Zoey and two long-haired black cats – Binx and Onyx – the couple’s pride and joy. In her free time, she enjoys photography, hiking, hammocking, yoga, and running.
Mariana
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Mariana is one of our Licensed Veterinary Technicians, who brings compassion, skill, and a calming presence to every patient she cares for. She loves being able to help pets feel comfortable during their visits while supporting both our doctors and clients throughout treatment. Mariana’s favorite part of veterinary medicine is the fact that there is always something new to learn.
When she’s not at the hospital, Mariana enjoys baking sweet and savory foods, spending time with Safwan (her boyfriend), fishing with her family on weekends, and drawing to her heart’s content. A fun fact about Mariana is she has a twin brother 1 minute older than her!
Dana
Veterinary Assistant
Dana has always had an indescribable connection with animals. Add to this her interest in medicine, and it’s obvious why she chose to pursue a career in the veterinary field. As part of the Stone Cottage team, she finds tremendous fulfillment in helping animals recover from illness or injury and go on to enjoy happy, healthy, and amazing lives!
Dana’s journey began as a kennel attendant. One pet resort where she worked happened to be part of an animal hospital. Being around that environment inspired Dana to pursue the medical side of pet care. While she loves her current role as a Veterinary Assistant, Dana is seriously considering attending college to become a Licensed Veterinary Technician. Professionally, Dana particularly enjoys diagnostic appointments, and she loves the fact that she’s learning every day.
Outside of work, Dana lives with her significant other. Together, they have a dog named Reaper and two rescue kittens named Gemini and Aries. Her personal interests include art, skateboarding, and practicing makeup – something she’s been dabbling in for nearly a decade.
Dana’s journey began as a kennel attendant. One pet resort where she worked happened to be part of an animal hospital. Being around that environment inspired Dana to pursue the medical side of pet care. While she loves her current role as a Veterinary Assistant, Dana is seriously considering attending college to become a Licensed Veterinary Technician. Professionally, Dana particularly enjoys diagnostic appointments, and she loves the fact that she’s learning every day.
Outside of work, Dana lives with her significant other. Together, they have a dog named Reaper and two rescue kittens named Gemini and Aries. Her personal interests include art, skateboarding, and practicing makeup – something she’s been dabbling in for nearly a decade.
Danielle
Client Service Representative/Inventory Manager
Danielle always knew she’d one day work with animals. Her childhood cat confirmed this for her. Diagnosed with a tumor on the stem of her brain, Danielle cared for her, keeping the drain area clean and administering medication to help keep her comfortable. The experience inspired Danielle to help as many animals as she could.
Danielle’s journey began at a young age while spending her summers at horse camp. From there, she began working at a boarding kennel before moving into veterinary assisting. As she gained experience, she eventually worked her way up to the role of Surgical Assistant before being sidelined by a knee injury. Determined not to be deterred from her life’s goal of working with animals, Danielle joined the Stone Cottage team in July of 2021 as one of our amazing receptionists.
At home, Danielle is a pet mom to three fur babies: a senior rescue Chihuahua named Sookie and two black rescue cats named Shredder and Winifred Empanada. When she’s not working or loving on her pets, Danielle enjoys crocheting, reading, spending time with friends, and practicing self-care.
Danielle’s journey began at a young age while spending her summers at horse camp. From there, she began working at a boarding kennel before moving into veterinary assisting. As she gained experience, she eventually worked her way up to the role of Surgical Assistant before being sidelined by a knee injury. Determined not to be deterred from her life’s goal of working with animals, Danielle joined the Stone Cottage team in July of 2021 as one of our amazing receptionists.
At home, Danielle is a pet mom to three fur babies: a senior rescue Chihuahua named Sookie and two black rescue cats named Shredder and Winifred Empanada. When she’s not working or loving on her pets, Danielle enjoys crocheting, reading, spending time with friends, and practicing self-care.
Morgan
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Morgan’s professional path in veterinary medicine is marked by continuous learning and a deep-seated desire to help animals. With a Bachelor’s degree from Mercy College, she is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Veterinary Clinical Care at Lincoln Memorial University. Her commitment to education is paralleled by her dedication to her role as a Licensed Veterinary Technician.
In her work, Morgan is driven by the many facets of animal medicine—from hanging out with senior pets to sharing joyful moments with puppy kisses. She values the opportunity to collaborate closely with veterinarians and other team members to solve complex medical cases and advocate for the animals she serves. Her professional life is complemented by a vibrant family life, where she enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures with her children, Xylie and Rayna.
Despite the challenges of balancing a nearly full-time job with her studies and family responsibilities, Morgan remains passionate about her future in veterinary medicine. She looks forward to utilizing her advanced skills to further aid animals in need. At home, her family is rounded out by Fred, the lab mix, and three cats, Judah, Paulie Thumbs, and Flea.
In her work, Morgan is driven by the many facets of animal medicine—from hanging out with senior pets to sharing joyful moments with puppy kisses. She values the opportunity to collaborate closely with veterinarians and other team members to solve complex medical cases and advocate for the animals she serves. Her professional life is complemented by a vibrant family life, where she enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures with her children, Xylie and Rayna.
Despite the challenges of balancing a nearly full-time job with her studies and family responsibilities, Morgan remains passionate about her future in veterinary medicine. She looks forward to utilizing her advanced skills to further aid animals in need. At home, her family is rounded out by Fred, the lab mix, and three cats, Judah, Paulie Thumbs, and Flea.
Debbie
Veterinary Assistant
Debbie’s journey into veterinary medicine began when she was young. Raised in a home where her mother worked as a vet tech, Debbie grew up surrounded by animals, fostering an intrinsic love for them. After completing her Bachelor’s degree, she returned to her roots by accepting a position at the same hospital where her mother once worked, thus beginning her professional journey in animal care. Debbie is committed to the well-being of every animal she encounters. She plans to further her education and pursue a career as a Licensed Veterinary Technician, driven by her interest in veterinary medicine and her desire to contribute significantly to the field. Her daily interactions with animals not only fulfill a lifelong passion but also make a real difference in their lives. Debbie’s interests outside of work include reading, hiking, and cooking, which she often enjoys with her loved ones. Her cat, Mushroom, is a constant companion in her leisure activities. Having moved from Staten Island, NY to the Hudson Valley after college, she cherishes the opportunity to live and work in such a scenic part of the country, where she can balance her professional aspirations with her personal interests.
Baleigh
Client Service Representative
Baleigh has always had a profound connection with animals, stemming from a lifetime of companionship with various pets. This deep-seated love led her to pursue a career where she could make a significant difference in the lives of animals. Certified in Dog/Cat First Aid and CPR, Baleigh blends her nurturing instincts with her professional skills, ensuring that every pet receives the best possible care. At the hospital, Baleigh is known for her enthusiasm and commitment to animal welfare. She thrives in the collaborative atmosphere, where she works alongside a team of equally passionate professionals. Together, they advocate for animals in need, a mission Baleigh feels is incredibly rewarding. Her days are filled with opportunities to aid in the recovery and health of pets, which she finds immensely satisfying.
Outside of her work, Baleigh enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends and going on outdoor adventures, often accompanied by her beloved rescue dogs, a mixed breed named Wesley and a chihuahua named Zoey. She is also actively involved in her community, volunteering to foster kittens for a local cat rescue. Her efforts help ensure these kittens receive the love and care they need before finding their forever homes.
Outside of her work, Baleigh enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends and going on outdoor adventures, often accompanied by her beloved rescue dogs, a mixed breed named Wesley and a chihuahua named Zoey. She is also actively involved in her community, volunteering to foster kittens for a local cat rescue. Her efforts help ensure these kittens receive the love and care they need before finding their forever homes.
Nicole
Client Service Representative
Nicole brings warmth and efficiency to our front desk, where she will say hello to pet owners (and their pets) with a smile, help answer questions, and keep things running smoothly at the front of the hospital. Nicole’s favorite part of her job? Greeting every pet that walks through the door and seeing the positive impact our hospital has on pets and their people. She is always happy to chat during check-in.
When she’s not keeping things running smoothly, Nicole enjoys unwinding with a good book or a binge-worthy series, especially while drinking up a Strawberry Acai Lemonade Refresher. She also absolutely loves polar bears!
When she’s not keeping things running smoothly, Nicole enjoys unwinding with a good book or a binge-worthy series, especially while drinking up a Strawberry Acai Lemonade Refresher. She also absolutely loves polar bears!
Rylie
Client Service Representative
Rylie is one of the friendly faces you’ll see at our front desk, helping clients and their pets feel welcomed from the moment they walk through the door. She enjoys getting to know both pets and their owners while keeping the hospital running smoothly throughout the day. Rylie’s favorite part of her job is meeting new patients every day and learning more about veterinary medicine.
Outside of work, Rylie enjoys watching her favorite shows and spending time with her dog, Kloe, a beautiful blonde Pomeranian Bichon Frise mix, and her boyfriend, Sawyer. She also loves trying new recipes.
One fun fact about Rylie is that she rescued a rabbit named Paisley from the Stop & Shop parking lot.
Lori
Veterinary Assistant
Lori is a dedicated Veterinary Assistant at Stone Cottage Veterinary Hospital who brings both passion and positivity to the team. Originally from Pearl River, New York, she makes the hour-long commute each day—something she happily does because of how much she loves being part of the Stone Cottage family.
Lori has been working in veterinary medicine for about seven months and is currently enrolled in veterinary technician school, where she will be graduating soon. Her love for animals started at a young age, and she always knew she wanted a career where she could care for them. She says she couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
She has a special interest in surgery and enjoys being part of the process and learning as much as she can. One of her favorite experiences was watching her own dog, Lola, be spayed—an opportunity that made her even more excited about the field.
At home, Lori has three dogs who keep her busy: Ollie, an 8-year-old Maltese mix with a big personality (and an even bigger appetite), Lola, a very spoiled 10-year-old Yorkie, and Autumn, a 1-year-old mixed breed “island dog” with long legs and big ears.
Outside of work, Lori enjoys relaxing and watching shows with her boyfriend, JJ—they’re currently into Invincible and highly recommend it to fellow superhero fans. A fun fact about Lori: she can do a full split!
Her favorite part of the job is, of course, getting to see and care for all the adorable animals each day. While dogs are her favorite, she also loves tigers when it comes to wild animals.
Lori has been working in veterinary medicine for about seven months and is currently enrolled in veterinary technician school, where she will be graduating soon. Her love for animals started at a young age, and she always knew she wanted a career where she could care for them. She says she couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
She has a special interest in surgery and enjoys being part of the process and learning as much as she can. One of her favorite experiences was watching her own dog, Lola, be spayed—an opportunity that made her even more excited about the field.
At home, Lori has three dogs who keep her busy: Ollie, an 8-year-old Maltese mix with a big personality (and an even bigger appetite), Lola, a very spoiled 10-year-old Yorkie, and Autumn, a 1-year-old mixed breed “island dog” with long legs and big ears.
Outside of work, Lori enjoys relaxing and watching shows with her boyfriend, JJ—they’re currently into Invincible and highly recommend it to fellow superhero fans. A fun fact about Lori: she can do a full split!
Her favorite part of the job is, of course, getting to see and care for all the adorable animals each day. While dogs are her favorite, she also loves tigers when it comes to wild animals.
Meet the dedicated team at Stone Cottage Veterinary Hospital, serving cats and dogs in Newburgh, New Windsor, Cornwall, West Point, Beacon, Wappingers Falls, Montgomery, Wallkill, Walden, and surrounding areas.