THE
TEAM
Gerald and Cyndi Jenkins, Practice Owners
Meet Cyndi and Dr. Gerald Jenkins, dedicated owners of Alta Vista Veterinary Hospital. The practice opened in 1972 and has been instrumental in shaping its philosophy and overseeing its growth. Alta Vista is the fifth practice to be set up in Central Phoenix and was originally surrounded by dairy farms, reflecting the significant changes in the area over the years. The Jenkins have put in a tremendous amount of effort to make sure that Alta Vista has the necessary resources, staff training, and a genuine sense of care to provide exceptional veterinary services for beloved pets. When they are not at the hospital, they enjoy spending time in Patagonia, Arizona. Their commitment is to ensure that pets and their owners receive the most comprehensive care.
Paige Peterson, DVM
Dr. Peterson is a North Central Phoenix native who grew up going to local Madison schools and graduated from Sunnyslope High School. She received a volleyball scholarship to Concordia University where she studied abroad in Argentina her junior year and graduated with honors in 2007. She started vet school at University of Edinburgh in 2007. The summer of her Junior year in vet school she spent three months in Kenya researching indigenous cattle for the International Livestock Research Institute. She has also worked at several spay and neuter clinics abroad and gets great satisfaction from volunteering her time for the improvement of animal welfare. She is happy to be back to her native area after having enjoyed many wonderful experiences abroad. Her husband whom she met at vet school has returned with her to Arizona and is a large animal vet in the Prescott area. They have several dogs, cats, chickens, and horses at home and spend their spare time horseback riding and hiking in the Phoenix Mountain Preserves.
Forrest Jenkins, DVM
Dr. Forrest Jenkins is a proud Arizona native with a deep-rooted passion for veterinary medicine. After completing his Bachelor's Degree at Arizona State University, he pursued his dream of becoming a veterinarian by obtaining his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in Virginia. Dr. Jenkins finds joy and fulfillment in all aspects of veterinary medicine, embracing the opportunity to provide compassionate care to needy animals. When he's not attending to his patients, he takes advantage of his free time to explore the vibrant culinary scene of locally owned restaurants, savoring the diverse flavors and culinary experiences available. Additionally, Dr. Jenkins cherishes quality moments spent with his beloved Yorkies, treasuring the companionship and unconditional love they bring to his life. His commitment to his profession and his devotion to his furry friends make Dr. Jenkins a valuable and caring presence in the veterinary community.
Taylor Reynolds, DVM
Dr. Taylor Reynolds, a Tucson native, proudly graduated from the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine, Class of 2024. During her veterinary training, she completed a four-week clinical rotation at Alta Vista and instantly connected with the team and the clinic’s mission. She knew this was where she wanted to build her career, and now she’s excited to care for your beloved pets!
With a strong background in Animal Behavior and a deep appreciation for Small Animal General Medicine, Dr. Reynolds is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care. At home, she cherishes her small mixed-breed dog, Woodrow. In her free time, she enjoys quality moments with family and friends, watching movies, and immersing herself in video games—her favorite series being The Legend of Zelda.
Angie, Practice Manager
Angie has been part of the Alta Vista family since 2001 and is passionate about creating a warm, supportive environment for both staff and clients. As a manager, she takes pride in fostering a workplace where the team feels valued and pets receive the exceptional care they deserve. Her love for animals isn’t just a job—it’s a lifelong commitment to making a difference in the lives of pets and the people who love them.
Outside of work, Angie has a love for adventure, whether she’s hiking, traveling, or making memories with her family. In 2024, she and her family—including her 12-year-old daughter and 18-year-old son—took on the breathtaking Havasupai Falls, an experience she calls one of the most rewarding of her life. At home, she shares her world with two dogs, Cooper and Leon, and her 19-year-old cat, Pharaoh, who has been by her side since he was just three weeks old.
Married with two kids, Angie balances her love for exploration with her dedication to veterinary care, always bringing heart, energy, and compassion to everything she does.
Sissy, Veterinary Technician Manager
Sissy is a kind and dedicated member of the Alta Vista team. She earned her AOS degree in veterinary technology in February 2009 and has been with Alta Vista since October 2007, starting as an extern. Sissy's love for animals drives her to keep learning and growing in her field. She's known for her friendly attitude and always going the extra mile for pets and their owners. Outside of work, she enjoys relaxing at home with her husband and their beloved “little zoo” of pets. Her passion and care make her a trusted and valued part of the team.
Martina, Veterinary Technician
Martina, a proud Arizona native from Holbrook, has always had a passion for helping animals. Her love for strays growing up led her to pursue a career in veterinary care. After high school, she moved to Phoenix and graduated with honors from Anthem College with a degree in Veterinary Technology. Martina joined Alta Vista in 2014 after completing her externship and has been making a difference ever since.
Outside of work, Martina is a full-time mom to two kids and a beloved pet. She enjoys taking short trips to places like Sedona and Flagstaff with her family. Her dedication to animals and caring nature make her a valued and trusted part of the Alta Vista team.
Dana, Veterinary Technician
Dana is a dedicated veterinary technician at Alta Vista with roots in both Texas and Phoenix. Born in Corpus Christi and raised in Phoenix, she studied Veterinary Technology at Anthem College and earned her Associate of Science degree in March 2013. She joined the Alta Vista team just before graduating and has been making a difference ever since.
Dana is passionate about learning and always eager to grow in her field. She hopes to become a Certified Veterinary Technician soon. At home, she enjoys the company of her beloved pets—"Kitty," "Oona," and her pug "Alice," who has a big personality. Dana’s love for animals and commitment to excellent care make her a valued part of the Alta Vista team.
Jocelyn, Veterinary Technician
Jocelyn, a proud Arizona native, grew up with a loving family and a house full of pets—four dogs and two cats. She graduated from Pima Medical Institute in January 2023 with a certificate as a Veterinary Assistant. Soon after, she joined the Alta Vista team, where she completed her externship and continues to learn and grow with help from her experienced coworkers.
Outside of work, Jocelyn enjoys Marvel movies, going to the gym, hiking, and spending time at home with her pets. Her love for animals and commitment to her career make her a valued part of the Alta Vista team.
Beth, Veterinary Technician
Meet Beth, a kind and caring team member originally from Kimberly, Wisconsin. She moved to Arizona in 2019 and has been working at Alta Vista ever since, following her passion for helping animals. Her love for animals began at age three when she got her first dog.
Beth loves being an advocate for animals and making sure they get the care they need. She shares her home with two dogs, Harley and Ivy, and a spunky cat named Picante. With her big heart and dedication, Beth continues to make a positive difference in the lives of pets every day.
Luciano, Veterinary Technician
Luciano, a Phoenix native, has loved animals since he was a child and always wanted to help them. In 2019, while still in school, he began working at Alta Vista as a kennel assistant, cleaning and helping wherever he could. Over time, his hard work and dedication led him to become a veterinary technician.
Luciano is always eager to learn and grow in the field. He’s passionate about giving every animal the best care possible and making a positive difference in their lives.
Matthew, Veterinary Technician
Matthew, a Florida native, has always had a deep love for animals. He shares his home with seven Shih Tzus and two cats, a reflection of his passion. After graduating from West-Mec High School as a Veterinary Assistant, he joined the Alta Vista team in 2021. He’s currently working toward a biology degree in college, with hopes of attending veterinary school to become a veterinarian. In his free time, Matthew enjoys fishing and relaxing by the water.
Laizza, Veterinary Technician
Laizza, an Arizona native, has been part of the Alta Vista team since 2022. She followed her love for animals by graduating from Pima as a veterinary assistant. At home, she enjoys life with her three dogs—Kurai, a playful border collie mix, Dashi, a fun-loving pitbull mix, and Zuko, an energetic husky.
Laizza is passionate about improving communication in veterinary care and hopes to become a certified Spanish veterinary terminology translator. She also plans to continue her education to become a certified veterinary technician. Outside of work and school, Laizza stays active and is growing her own lash business, showing her creative and entrepreneurial side.
Michelle, Veterinary Technician
Michelle joined the Alta Vista team in 2023 and has a big heart for animals. She shares her home with two beloved dogs—Ginger, her spunky 10-year-old Chihuahua, and Solovinno, a Terrier she rescued after he showed up as a stray.
Outside of work, Michelle stays busy with her job at a breakfast diner, enjoys playing video games, and loves watching horror movies. She dreams of helping more stray animals find loving homes, showing her deep compassion and dedication to making a difference.
Alexia, Customer Service Representative
Alexia has been part of the Alta Vista team since 2022. Born on the Royal Air Force Base Lakenheath in the UK, she’s lived in Hawaii and Colorado before settling in Arizona. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies from Arizona State University but later discovered her true passion—veterinary medicine. She was recently accepted into the veterinary program at Midwestern University.
Alexia splits her time between working at the Mesa Justice Court and Alta Vista. When she’s not studying or working, she enjoys staying active at the gym. Her dedication and love for animals drive her goal to make a meaningful impact as a future veterinarian.
Krista, Veterinary Technician
Krista, a Central Phoenix native, has always felt a strong connection to her community. After graduating from North High School, she followed her passion for animals by studying Veterinary Technology at Mesa Community College. Her journey started as a volunteer at an animal shelter, and she has since grown into a skilled veterinary technician, working in both general practice and municipal shelters. Krista joined us in 2020 and is known for her dedication and compassion in caring for animals. Outside of work, she enjoys cheering on her local sports teams, especially at Coyotes hockey games, and spending time with her five beloved dogs. Her love for animals and her community makes her a valued member of the veterinary field.
Destiny, Assistant & CSR
Destiny is a Phoenix native and devoted mom whose lifelong love for animals has shaped her path. She graduated from Carrington College with a certification in Veterinary Assisting, giving her a strong foundation in animal care. Destiny joined us in 2024 and is always eager to keep learning and growing in the field. Outside of work, she loves spending quality time with her daughter. Her passion for animal welfare and caring nature make her a valued part of the Alta Vista team.
Rosa, Customer Service Representative
Meet Rosa, our amazing Customer Service Representative! She moved from California to Arizona and has been part of the Alta Vista team since 2005. With her caring and dedicated approach, Rosa brings a true passion for helping animals. At home, she enjoys life with her Labradoodle, Teddy, her Bernadoodle, Sora, and her parakeet, Paco. When she’s not at work, she’s busy raising her two kids. Rosa’s warmth, hard work, and love for animals and family make her a valued part of our team—we’re so lucky to have her!
