Dr. Gross grew up in Pittsburgh, PA. After graduating from Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, she moved to Washington DC. She completed an internship at Friendship Hospital for Animals. After completing the internship she stayed on as a staff veterinarian there. She worked as a relief veterinarian throughout the DC area after leaving FHA, but has been established as a full-time veterinarian here since 2007. She is our Medical Director at UVC. She lives with her husband Ry, daughter Matilda, son Leo, dog Rooney and cat Sparkles.

Dr. Massre’s roots lie in the sunny town of Cooper City, Florida. He embarked on his academic journey at the University of Florida, where he pursued both his undergraduate degree and veterinary studies, proudly earning the distinction of being a ‘double gator’ upon his graduation. During his time in school, he cultivated a deep fascination for preventive care, as well as internal and emergency medicine.

Outside the world of veterinary medicine, Dr. Massre’s passions include hiking and immersing himself in captivating landscapes, often accompanied by his cherished canine companions, Marshall and Mango. One of his cherished dreams is to explore every national park across the United States.

Dr. Yim grew up in California and earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2011. He practiced as a full-time veterinarian in North Carolina for more than five years before relocating to the Washington, DC metro area in 2016.

After moving to the area, Dr. Yim worked for four years as a full-time relief veterinarian at hospitals throughout Maryland and Washington, DC, including Union Veterinary Clinic, before officially joining the team as a full-time associate veterinarian.

He has special interests in ophthalmology, dentistry, cardiology, and soft-tissue surgery. Prior to veterinary school, Dr. Yim earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences and Dairy Science, as well as a Master’s degree in Agriculture with a concentration in micro and molecular biology from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

Outside of the clinic, he enjoys practicing the clarinet and experimenting in the kitchen as an aspiring home chef.

Dr. Slottje hails from Upstate New York, where she completed both her undergraduate and veterinary degrees at Cornell University. During her studies, she developed a passion for soft tissue surgery and neurology. Now, as a general practitioner, she is thrilled to integrate these specialties with preventative care.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Slottje loves spending time with her husband, especially while checking out new and local restaurants. She’s an avid reader and home cook, enjoys traveling, and is excited to fully explore everything DC has to offer—including her quest to become the Nationals’ #1 fan.

Nikki Peele joined the team in 2025 as Head of Marketing and Community Partnerships for Union Veterinary Clinic, Dupont Veterinary Clinic, and Palisades Veterinary Clinic. She leads marketing, communications, and community outreach initiatives for all three independent, family-owned veterinary clinics.

With a background in public relations, marketing, and community engagement, Nikki is passionate about supporting local businesses, building meaningful partnerships, and spreading the message about the importance of independent veterinary clinics. She enjoys finding creative ways to connect DC pet families with compassionate veterinary care while championing the value of keeping veterinary medicine independent, local, and community-focused.

A devoted dog mom, Nikki spent 16 glorious years with her beloved dog and best friend, Teddy. Although Teddy has crossed the Rainbow Bridge, she thinks about him constantly and cherishes the unconditional love, companionship, and joy he brought to her life.