Meet the Team

Soren has been a veterinarian at New Hope Animal Hospital since its founding in 2003. He spent the previous 6 years (1997-2003) practicing at the local emergency and critical care hospital here in Durham, before the birth of his first daughter led him toward a more regular daytime schedule. Soren received his Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering from Duke University before returning to his home state of Michigan, where he then graduated from Michigan State University's College of Veterinary Medicine in 1996. He enjoys spending his time off with his wife and their two-legged and four-legged children. Occasionally he has been known to swim, bike and run as well.

Dr. Michelle Pineda joined the team at New Hope Animal Hospital in January 2024. After graduating from veterinary school in 2002, Michelle worked as a primary care doctor at several small animal hospitals, including a 24-hour emergency care facility. With over twenty years of experience, she has a love of cutting-edge dentistry and soft tissue surgery. Her major areas of interest include dentistry, soft-tissue surgery, and preventive medicine.
Michelle and her husband live in Durham and have three school-age sons. They also share their home with two Papillons, Chicle and Colette, and two kitties rescued from the Durham Animal Shelter, Stallone and Sylvester. Michelle was born in Greenville, South Carolina, but has lived in Durham since 1993 and considers it her home. In her off time, Michelle enjoys gardening, baking, and traveling.
Michelle’s academic credentials include:
• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, 2002
• Master of Arts, Physics, Duke University, 1993
• Bachelor of Science, Physics and Mathematics, summa cum laude, Harding University, 1993
• Bachelor of Arts, Spanish, summa cum laude, Harding University, 1993

Dr. Christine Bush has been with the team at New Hope Animal Hospital since 2013. Previously, Christine had worked at various small animal practices in the Triangle area since earning her DVM degree from the NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine in 2002. Prior to attending veterinary school, she received a BS in Chemistry from Duke University, and then worked at a pharmaceutical company in RTP for several years. Since earning her DVM, she has found true joy improving the health and well-being of companion animals, through collaboration with clients. She lives in Granville County, with 3 dogs and 3 cats, all rescues. She enjoys hiking, camping, and traveling to beautiful and interesting places.