Our Team
Dr. Clare Randt
Veterinarian & Co-Owner
Dr. Clare Randt, along with her partner Brandon Barulich, is delighted to join Stratford Animal Hospital as co-owner. The couple recently relocated from Naples, Florida, with their three dogs—Ellie, Ezra, and Jaako—and are excited to become part of the Stratford community.
Originally from Hong Kong and Beijing, Dr. Clare attended boarding school in Connecticut before earning her undergraduate degree from Yale University. In 2020, she completed her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.
Following graduation, Dr. Clare pursued a rotating internship at Coral Springs Animal Hospital in Florida, gaining extensive experience in emergency medicine, critical care, and specialty services. She then practiced in Naples at a leading general hospital, where she honed her skills in preventive medicine, dentistry, and surgery. She is especially passionate about preventive care, believing early intervention is key to lifelong health and comfort.
Now back in Connecticut, Dr. Clare looks forward to enjoying the four seasons again and exploring local hiking trails. In her free time, Dr. Clare enjoys painting animal portraits, spending time outdoors, and caring for her own dogs. She is deeply committed to strengthening the human–animal bond and providing every patient with the same compassion she gives her own pets.
Brandon Barulich
Practice Administrator & Co-Owner
Brandon Barulich, together with his partner Dr. Clare Randt, is proud to join Stratford Animal Hospital as co-owner and Practice Administrator. With a strong background in veterinary nursing and hospital leadership, Brandon is dedicated to ensuring exceptional care for pets and a welcoming experience for their families.
Originally from Long Island and Boca Raton, Brandon earned his Bachelor of Science in Economics from Florida Atlantic University. He began his career in veterinary medicine as a surgical assistant and quickly advanced to become a specialty surgery and lead neurology nurse at Coral Springs Animal Hospital, a busy multi-specialty emergency and referral center in Florida. There, he refined his expertise in anesthesia, imaging, peri-operative care, and patient monitoring—all while working closely with specialists and building strong relationships with clients and colleagues. It was also at Coral Springs that he met Dr. Clare.
After relocating to Naples, Florida, Brandon transitioned into hospital management, where he helped elevate standards of care and fostered a supportive, client-centered environment. Now in Connecticut, he is excited to bring that same commitment to Stratford Animal Hospital—and to trade the Florida heat for New England seasons.
As Practice Administrator, Brandon oversees daily operations, including scheduling, staffing, inventory, and client communication. His goal is to make each visit stress-free, efficient, and compassionate—because he believes pets deserve the same dignity and quality of care as any family member.
Outside the hospital, Brandon enjoys hiking with his three dogs—Ellie, Ezra, and Jaako—exploring Connecticut’s trails, skiing, traveling, cooking, and learning about sustainable farming.
Dr. Bruce Schatz
Veterinarian
A Connecticut native, Dr. Bruce Schatz has dedicated his career to advancing veterinary care in his community. He earned his undergraduate degree in Pathobiology at the University of Connecticut in 1981 and went on to receive his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Araneta University. He completed his clinical training at Louisiana State University, followed by a one-year internship at New Haven Central Hospital.
With a strong interest in emergency and critical care medicine, Dr. Schatz spent several years at Shoreline Animal Emergency Clinic before returning to New Haven Central Hospital as Director of Clinical Services. In that role, he supervised the internship program and managed their 24-hour Emergency and Critical Care Service.
In 2002, Dr. Schatz acquired Stratford Animal Hospital, which he proudly led for two decades before passing ownership to Dr. Clare Randt. He continues to provide excellent care as part of the team.
Dr. Schatz is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the American Association of Feline Practitioners, the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association, the New Haven Veterinary Association, and the Fairfield Veterinary Medical Association. Outside of work, he enjoys adventure travel, scuba diving, photography, caring for injured wildlife, and spending time with his family and pets.
Angel Sanchez
Practice Manager
Angel has been a valued member of the Stratford Animal Hospital team since 2004. His lifelong passion for animals shines through in everything he does. At home, he shares his life with his Shih Tzu, Trinket, and has a special fondness for birds.
Erika Lopez
Receptionist
Erika joined Stratford Animal Hospital in 2016. A graduate of Animal Behavior College, she is a certified veterinary assistant. She began as a technician before transitioning into her current role as receptionist, where she warmly welcomes clients and their pets.
Erika is a proud mom to her son, Aolonis, and her beloved dog, Knuckles. In her free time, she enjoys spin classes at CycleBar and playing volleyball whenever she gets the chance.
Jessica Alvia
Veterinary Technician
Jessica has been part of the Stratford Animal Hospital team since 2008. She is passionate about helping animals and finds great joy in improving their health and quality of life. Jessica holds an Associate’s Degree in General Studies and is currently pursuing certification in ultrasonography.
Outside of work, Jessica enjoys long beach walks with her dog, Baby, as well as spending time with her family and friends.
Jonna Piccolo
Veterinary Nurse
Jonna joined the hospital team in 2016 as a veterinary nurse. He is dedicated to making pets feel comfortable and cared for during their visits.
When not at work, Jonna enjoys spending time with his own pets and exploring the outdoors.
Jody Semons
Veterinary Assistant
Jody brings many years of experience in veterinary medicine to Stratford Animal Hospital. An avid animal lover, she shares her home with four dogs, three cats, and two turtles.
In her free time, Jody enjoys working on jigsaw puzzles, creating jewelry, and dreaming of one day opening an animal sanctuary for homeless pets.
Brandon Barulich
Brandon Barulich, together with his partner Dr. Clare Randt, is proud to join Stratford Animal Hospital as co-owner and Practice Administrator. With a strong background in veterinary nursing and hospital leadership, Brandon is dedicated to ensuring exceptional care for pets and a welcoming experience for their families.