Hillary Israeli, VMD

Hillary Israeli, who is our Medical Director, has been at Ivens-Bronstein since graduating from Penn's School of Veterinary Medicine in May of 2000. The recipient of the Penn Vet Class of 2000's "Human-Animal Bond" award, Dr. Israeli is particularly interested in the health and happiness of the entire family unit. Other professional interests include endocrine disorders and cancer management, and she enjoys working with companion animals of all kinds. An affectionate Labradoodle named Levie is younger sister to her three kids, and enjoys helping with sock and other laundry management. Her Maine Coon cat of unusual size, Gingi, enjoys antagonizing the dog.

Dr. Israeli's hobbies include cooking, reading, knitting, Instagram photography, writing, and taking AVMA business management training seminars.

Brad Bates, VMD

Dr. Brad Bates earned his veterinary degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 2010. Since then, he has worked across a range of clinical settings, including emergency medicine, general practice, in-home hospice care, and leadership roles. He has a strong professional interest in preventative and general medicine, with a particular focus on geriatric care and end-of-life support.

Dr. Bates is committed to building lasting relationships with clients and their pets, with an emphasis on compassionate, individualized care and open communication. 

Outside of veterinary medicine, he enjoys playing billiards and has participated in numerous leagues over the years. He also spends time outdoors with his two dogs, Bella and Xander, exploring local trails whenever the weather allows.

Dr. Samantha Watson, DVM

Dr. Watson is an honors graduate from Ross University with a passion for clinical pathology and other diagnostics, animal behavior, pain management, and practicing Fear Free medicine. A lifelong equestrian and cat lover, she enjoys the outdoors, including kayaking, camping, and amateur horticulture. Born and raised in Bryn Mawr, Dr. Watson currently resides in Phoenixville with three spoiled rotten cats, Crow, Monkey, and Charlie

Liz, Practice Manager

Liz joined the Ivens-Bronstein Veterinary Hospital team in 2020, bringing with her a background in human healthcare. While her early career focused on caring for people, it wasn’t until she transitioned into animal health that she truly found her calling—and her home.

As Practice Manager, Liz is passionate about fostering collaboration, delivering exceptional client experiences, and building a culture where both staff and clients feel valued. At Ivens-Bronstein, she is committed to treating every pet—and their human—with the same compassion, respect, and care she would give her own family.

A proud Havertown resident, Liz is the mom of two amazing daughters (18 years apart!) and the cat mom to two spoiled felines. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, dancing to live music, baking sweet treats, enjoying the outdoors, and binge-watching true crime documentaries.

Nicole, CVT

Nicole is a dedicated Certified Veterinary Technician with over four years of hands-on experience in animal care, diagnostics, and client support. Nicole started working in the kennel at Ivens-Bronstein in 2019 while in school. Slowly working her way up to a vet assistant then certified technician after graduating from Harcum College. Passionate about animal health and well-being, she brings compassion and precision to every patient and client interaction. Outside of the clinic, Nicole enjoys reading, painting, going to concerts, and hanging with her dog, Brillo. 

Fun Fact: Nicole also has a degree in Fine Arts and Photography.

Bernie, Veterinary Nurse

Bernie qualified as a Veterinary Nurse in Scotland and has worked at Ivens-Bronstein since moving here over 20 years ago. When not working she enjoys gardening, painting with pastels, yoga, and spending time with her husband and Nacho the cat. 

Fun Fact: Bernie has completed a Tough Mudder in Philly.

Renee, Veterinary Assistant

Renee is a senior pre-veterinary student at Saint Jospeh’s University. She started working at the practice as a Veterinary Assistant in the summer of 2024. Renee is deeply committed to cultivating a compassionate and nurturing environment for your pets. Outside of work, Renee enjoys spending time with her loved ones, including her 5 year old shichon, Buffy.

Fun fact: Renee danced for 14 years!

In Memoriam:  Mark A.  Bronstein, VMD

Dr. Bronstein owned Ivens-Bronstein Veterinary Hospital for nearly 30 years prior to his untimely death in the fall of 2007.

He was a true Dr. Doolittle, who kept chickens, birds, ducks, goats, a tortoise, an emu, and many dogs and cats as pets. His birds, tortoise, waterfowl, and goats still live here at Ivens-Bronstein Veterinary Hospital. 

Dr. Bronstein is survived by his wife Nina, daughters Sarah and Becky; a son, Nathan; and a brother.

The staff and clients of Ivens-Bronstein Veterinary Hospital mourn the loss of our mentor, colleague, and friend while we strive to honor his memory by continuing to provide high-quality veterinary medical care to our community's pets. We miss you, Mark.