Staff Role: Veterinarian
Veterinarian
Dr. Alexandra Awad is an associate veterinarian at Pieper Veterinary undertaking a year-long specialty internship with our Internal Medicine department. Originally from Cranston, Rhode Island, Dr. Awad earned her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science with a minor in Psychology from the University of New Hampshire in 2020. She went on to receive her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Tufts University in 2024 and completed a rotating internship at the University of Tennessee, where she deepened her clinical expertise across multiple disciplines.
Dr. Awad’s primary interests lie in internal medicine, clinical nutrition, and primary care. She is passionate about the diagnostic challenges that complex cases present and values the opportunity to collaborate closely with pet owners to deliver thoughtful, personalized care. Her love of veterinary medicine began during a formative first-grade field trip to a local clinic and grew stronger through her bond with her childhood pets – Sonya, Maxie, and Lexi – who continue to inspire her today. Outside of the clinic, she enjoys reading, playing Animal Crossing, and watching soccer and women’s gymnastics.
Special Interests:
- Internal medicine
- Nutrition
- Primary care
Veterinarian
Sarah Byron, DVM

Dr. Sarah Byron is an associate veterinarian at Pieper Veterinary and part of our rotating small animal medicine and surgery intern class of 2024-2025. Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, she graduated from Murray State University with a B.S. in Agriculture, and later graduated from Auburn University with her degree in veterinary medicine. She has a special clinical interest in both emergency and critical medicine and internal medicine, and is a member of the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) and is Fear-Free certified.
Dr. Byron grew up owning a variety of animals including reptiles, small mammals, and chickens, and was often disheartened at how difficult it often was to find medical care for them. This experience helped inspire her to pursue veterinary medicine and become a resource to help provide care and education for all pets, beyond cats and dogs. During veterinary school she became interested in emergency and critical care medicine and is looking forward to continuing her education and finding even more aspects to focus on. Her favorite part of her job is being able to advocate for her patients, help pet owners through difficult situations, and of course being able to treat so many amazing animals.
Dr. Byron has three cats (Neptune, Monk, and Wizard), and a dog, Koda. When not working she enjoys hiking and rowing or, on rainy days, crocheting, reading, and playing video games.
Special Interests:
- Internal medicine
- Emergency & Critical Care medicine