Meet Our Team

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Dr. Kurth is an Arizona native! She graduated from Colorado State University in 2016. Since graduating, Dr. Kurth has practiced in a mixed general practice and emergency setting. She has undergone additional training in ultrasonography and is offering diagnostic ultrasounds. In 2018 she attended a weeklong training course and was part of the first class of veterinarians certified in the use of Ozone therapy. She is excited to share its many benefits with her patients.

At home Dr. Kurth enjoys spending time with her husband and two wonderful children Remington and Caroline. She enjoys family dinners, board games, racquetball, camping and reading. Her family shares their home with two dogs, Monty (a Miniature Schnauzer) and Red (a Labradoodle) and a cat named Lightening Storm. They also have two Morgan Horses named Sparky and Malibar along with several chickens.

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Hi! I’m Dr. Briana Sowerby! I am an Arizona native originally from Lake Havasu City. I did my undergraduate degree at the University of Arizona then worked a few years in emergency medicine before vet school. I received my DVM from Ross University on the island of St. Kitts in the Caribbean while doing my clinical rotations at the University of Illinois. I have worked in many areas of veterinary medicine including emergency, urgent care, general practice and relief work. I love spending time with my husband and human child as well as our goldendoodle, Bo. You can catch us at just about any sporting event including football, baseball, hockey, disc golf, etc.

Meet Dr. Ralenkotter, a dedicated veterinarian who recently earned her veterinary degree from Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine in May 2024. Dr. Ralenkotter is passionate about general practice and urgent care medicine as well as soft tissue surgery and brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to our team. Although originally from Washington, she completed her undergraduate studies at Montana State University, where she earned a degree in psychology with a microbiology minor. Outside of the clinic, she enjoys spending time outdoors both on the water as well as on land. Some of her favorite activities are boating, swimming, camping, fishing, and attending rodeos. She also loves spending time at home with her husband and four fur babies; Bridger, a Yellow Lab, Boomer, a German Shorthaired Pointer, and two cats, Saber and Scout. We’re excited to welcome Dr. Ralenkotter and look forward to the care and expertise she’ll offer to our patients and their families.

Dr. Pini is all about faith, family, fitness…and animals, of course! She is the fourth out of six kids with four brothers and one sister. Her childhood involved backyard games and growing up on a private farm surrounded by llamas, horses, chickens, cats, dogs, ducks, and those pesky wild racoons.She has always loved staying active and found an obsession with CrossFit in her undergraduate years and now an elite competitive athlete (well, trying to be competitive in consideration of managing vet school). Dr. Pini’s goal is to advance her athletic career alongside her Veterinary Medicine career. Some fun facts about her are that she loves walking on her hands, can out-eat just about anybody, is addicted to peanut butter, and is notorious for spontaneous long road trips!

Dr. Rhoads completed their undergraduate studies at Penn State University Park, majoring in Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences with minors in Equine Science and Wildlife and Fisheries Science. During this time, they gained clinical experience working as a veterinary assistant at a small animal clinic in State College, Pennsylvania, and spent a summer as a wildlife rehabilitation intern at Centre Wildlife Care. Dr. Rhoads earned their Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where they also completed a certificate program in Shelter Medicine. While in veterinary school, they worked in the KSU Veterinary Health Center’s small animal emergency room, further developing a strong interest in emergency and critical care medicine, as well as shelter medicine. Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Rhoads enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time outdoors exploring local wildlife. They are accompanied by their six-year-old Alaskan Klee Kai, Nero, who provided invaluable support throughout veterinary school. Dr. Rhoads look s forward to spending more quality time with Nero, including renewed efforts in trick training and possibly exploring dog sports.

Dr. Henkel was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona. He began his academic journey playing tennis for Pima Community College before completing his undergraduate degree in Veterinary Sciences at the University of Arizona. He went on to earn his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine, further solidifying his Wildcat pride—Bear Down! Dr. Henkel is passionate about emergency and urgent care, ultrasound, and strengthening communication in clinical practice. He has a deep appreciation for the state of Arizona and its stunning sunsets, and he especially enjoys supporting local teams, including the Tucson Roadrunners.Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Henkel enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, and traveling to national parks with his wife. He is also an avid fan of crocheting, knitting, and watching sports—particularly hockey, football, and baseball. A dedicated Halloween enthusiast, he has attended Six Flags Fright Fest in both Santa Clarita and San Antonio for the past six years.Dr. Henkel shares his home with a senior Jack Russell/Chihuahua mix who prefers staying in and watching The Real Housewives and Frasier when the family is away.

Dr. Walker is from the small community of Chilchinbeto, Arizona, located on the Navajo reservation. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Arizona in 2022 and has proudly been a Wildcat for the past seven years. Dr. Walker’s professional interests include emergency medicine and, more recently, soft tissue surgery. His long-term goal is to become a mixed animal practitioner and eventually open his own ambulatory practice, with the hope of growing it into a full-service clinic.He shares his life with two dogs—Bailey, who has a torn CCL, and Hattie, who he adopted during an externship at a zoo in Mississippi and who is currently undergoing treatment for heartworm. Despite their medical challenges, he lovingly refers to them as his “lemons.”In his free time, Dr. Walker enjoys hiking and traveling, having already explored countries such as Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and Costa Rica. A self-proclaimed adrenaline junkie, he has also gone whitewater rafting, zip-lining, and skydiving, and looks forward to continuing his adventures both personally and professionally.

Dr. Perez was born and raised in Arizona and earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Arizona State University in 2020. Growing up surrounded by a variety of animals, including chickens, ducks, turtles, dogs, cats, hamsters, and mice—she developed a deep passion for animal care from an early age.She is particularly interested in preventative medicine, client education, soft tissue surgery, and urgent care. In her free time, Dr. Perez enjoys hiking, playing pickleball, reading, and traveling. She is also an avid Grey’s Anatomy fan and shares her home with two beloved dogs, Rosie and Scooby.

Dr.Niergarth is originally from West Michigan, where his journey in animal care began at the age of 14 through hands-on work with horses. It was during these formative years that he developed a strong passion for animal husbandry. His early experiences eventually led him to shadow at a veterinary clinic, where he discovered a deep interest in veterinary medicine—particularly in surgery. Dr.Niergarth is currently pursuing his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Arizona. His passion for surgery has shaped his professional focus and continues to guide his aspirations within both general practice and shelter medicine. He is committed to applying his skills to provide high-quality surgical care while supporting underserved animal populations. Outside of veterinary medicine, he is an avid woodworker, enjoying projects that range from crafting cutting boards to completing full basement renovations. He’s also a nature enthusiast who loves hiking and exploring the outdoors. During his clinical year, he’s had the opportunity to hike through the redwoods of California, explore the landscapes of Washington, and even visit Hawaii. Now based in Arizona, he looks forward to discovering more of the Phoenix area’s natural beauty alongside his girlfriend.

Dr. Rowitt is a recent graduate of the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine and is eager to begin her career in emergency veterinary medicine. Her dedication to animal care is matched by a strong foundation in public health, having earned a master’s degree in the field prior to attending veterinary school. She is deeply passionate about the well-being of both pets and their people, and she strives to support healthier communities through a holistic approach to care. Outside of her professional pursuits, Dr.Rowitt holds a black belt in TaeKwonDo and enjoys staying active through training, hiking, and running. She and her husband share their home with two beloved pets—a dog named Bo and a cat named Willow—who bring joy and companionship to their everyday lives.

Originally from Guangzhou, China, Dr. Cen is a proud Midwestern graduate and long-time Las Vegas resident who has a deep love for the outdoors. During veterinary school, she adopted two cats—though both have since been lovingly “stolen” by her mom. Her favorite hobbies include cooking, browsing for new houseplants, and watching anime. A self-proclaimed houseplant enthusiast and former viola player of seven years, she brings a creative and thoughtful energy to everything she does. Despite living in Las Vegas for over 20 years, she has never gambled in a casino. Now, as she works toward her goal of becoming an emergency veterinarian, she’s thrilled to take the next step in her career alongside a team of passionate and dedicated colleagues.

Dr. King grew up in Southern Utah, where his family raised cattle and quarter horses. It was there that his passion for caring for animals first began. During his undergraduate studies, he had the opportunity to work closely with several mixed animal practitioners, which sparked his interest in small animal medicine. During that time, he also got married, and he and his spouse have since welcomed two children. In August 2022, Dr. King and his family relocated to Tucson when he began veterinary school at the University of Arizona. They have greatly enjoyed living in Arizona. His professional interests include oncology, surgery, and emergency medicine. Dr. King is excited to join the team and looks forward to working with the clinic’s clients and patients.

Jess was born in The Valley and raised in Prescott, Arizona. She has been dedicated to the veterinary field since 2012. Jess began her career in a large general practice clinic that treated a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, and exotic species like bears and capybaras, as they were the local zoo’s veterinary provider.

After moving to Phoenix, Jess spent four years working in emergency veterinary medicine. Her dedication and expertise led her to her current role as hospital director.

Jess is passionate about her work, with special interests in physical therapy, growth and development through training, client education, and animal behavior.

Outside of work, Jess enjoys spending time with her family, including her two mini poodles, Betty White and Bob Ross.

Lauren is new to the veterinary field but has quickly stepped from her role as Lead Technician, to Hospital Administrator with dedication and heart. She brings an incredible level of care and compassion to every patient she sees and is ambitious about growing in her career, with plans to pursue certification. Raised in South Carolina, Lauren also has a background in the military, which shaped her strong work ethic and commitment to service. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her wife and never misses a chance to attend a concert.

Michell has been working in the veterinary field for over 20 years. She started her career in Connecticut before moving to Arizona in 2003. Michelle received her Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) License in 2011 and while she joined us as a receptionist in 2013 she also has the ability to assist as a technician. Michelle became the office manager in 2020.

When not working in the office Michelle enjoys spending time with her husband and fur-babies. She has 2 cats Opa and Mando, 1 horse Button, fish and chickens.

Meet Ashley W.  our Client Service Representative. She has a warm smile and helping hand that our clients rely on from the moment they step through our doors. With a kind heart and an unwavering sense of empathy, she goes above and beyond to ensure both our clients and their pets feel valued and cared for. As a dedicated mother of two, she brings a nurturing touch to every interaction, making each visit comforting and seamless. Her commitment to supporting our clients and their beloved animals truly defines the high standard of care we strive for every day.

Meet Katie, one of our incredibly experienced and compassionate team members! Growing up in Mesa, AZ, Katie has devoted 18 years to the veterinary field, bringing exceptional care to each animal she meets. She’s a loving pet parent to a special-needs dog and her cherished 17-year-old cat, who have been her loyal companions through her journey in veterinary medicine. When she’s not caring for animals at work, Katie indulges in her unique passion: collecting model horses, each one a small step closer to her dream of one day having a real horse. Her kindness, dedication, and love for animals shine through in everything she does, making her an invaluable part of our team!

Ally was born and raised in Las Vegas and has spent the past decade building her life and career in Arizona. With nearly 10 years of experience in the veterinary field, she has worked as both a receptionist and a veterinary technician. This diverse background has given her a well-rounded perspective on patient care, client communication, and the vital role teamwork plays in creating a positive experience for every visit. Ally truly loves being part of a team that helps animals feel safe, comfortable, and cared for.

Outside of work, Ally stays busy chasing after her toddler son and spending time with her three cats, including her three-legged kitty who serves as a daily reminder of just how resilient animals can be. She also enjoys visiting her in-laws’ property to spend time with their horses, keeping her connected to her love for large animals. In her free time, Ally loves camping, riding ATVs, and being outdoors as much as possible. Caring for both her human and furry family continues to fuel her passion for veterinary medicine.

Christine has called many places home throughout her life. Her fondest memories come from the years she spent living on five acres with her family, where she embraced small-town life and competed in numerous rodeos as a barrel racer with her beloved horses. This lifelong love for animals even took her overseas to Ireland, where she trained racehorses and led them out for jockeys before races.

Currently pursuing her dream of becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) at MCC,Christine balances her studies with family life. She and her husband have built a blended family with four sons together. They enjoy spending time outdoors, taking camping trips whenever possible.

In her free time, Christine nurtures several passions. She’s an enthusiastic cook who specializes in creating vegan dishes and whole foods from scratch, as well as baking breads and desserts using various specialty flours. When not in the kitchen, she enjoys singing karaoke, creating oil paintings, and staying active with regular exercise.

At home, Christine shares her life with two-year-old German Shepherd brothers, Bjorn and Odin, who round out her animal-loving household.

Meet Dallas!

Dallas is a second-generation Arizona native and a lifelong animal lover. With four cats and two dogs, Choso and Milkshake, animals have always been a big part of her life.

Dallas has been working with animals, particularly dogs, for about seven years. She has a special interest in animal behavior and enjoys learning more about how animals communicate, think, and interact with the people around them. Her years of experience have deepened her appreciation for the unique personalities and individual needs of every animal she meets.

Outside of work, Dallas enjoys spending time with her fiancé and pets, as well as pursuing her hobbies of concerts and art. She loves being creative and finding new ways to learn, explore, and connect with the animals around her.

I’m a friendly and experienced Customer Service Representative and Certified Veterinary Assistant with over 10 years in the field. I started at Queen Creek Veterinary Clinic and became certified after graduating from Carrington College in 2017.

I love connecting with clients and making sure every pet feels safe, loved, and cared for. My upbeat attitude and passion for animals help me create a positive experience for everyone.

Outside of work, I enjoy trading football cards, cheering on the Rams, and playing bingo. At home, my three dogs and two cats definitely keep things interesting!

Emmanuel is currently working toward his Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) credentials and is passionate about providing compassionate care to every patient. Fluent in four languages, he is able to connect with a wide range of clients and their pets. At home, Emmanuel enjoys spending time with his beloved Giant Schnauzers. Known for his kind and gentle nature, he is truly a valued and beloved member of the team.

Joey is a native Arizonan who has always had a heart for all creatures, big and small.  After being in the business industry for over two decades, Joey started his second career in emergency veterinary medicine in 2017.  As a nationally board certified veterinarian technician, he has specialized in surgical and orthopedic services.

Joey’s heart lies in helping people, advocating for animals, and leading by example. Joey lives in San Tan Valley with his wife, Kristine, and his menagerie of pets: Leilani, Mini, Ollie, Littles, Bond, and Itty Bitty.

Tami has been in the veterinary field for about four years. She started out in emergency medicine and worked there for about 3½ years before transferring to general practice and the surgery department, which she completely fell in love with.

Tami has three dogs; an American Bully, Mini Aussie, and Hound mix;  and to add to her busy household, she also has a beautiful toddler who keeps her on her toes.

A few fun facts about Tami: any “fat head” breed she sees, she immediately becomes obsessed with. She loves all things Disney and strives to visit Disneyland and Disney California Adventure at least once a year, with a current streak of six years. She also enjoys anything that lets her tap into her artistic side, whether that’s painting nails, drawing, or working on other creative projects.

Tristan is a dedicated veterinary receptionist and technician with a strong background in animal care and client service. He completed a two-year Veterinary Assistant program at Central Arizona Valley Institute of Technology (CAVIT), earning his certification and gaining hands-on experience in clinical settings. With a compassionate approach and strong organizational skills, he plays a key role in supporting both veterinary teams and pet owners, ensuring smooth operations and the highest standard of care for animals.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, Tristan is passionate about outdoor and motorsport activities, including horseback riding, dirtbiking, and truck adventures. He also enjoys playing various forms of pool, combining precision and focus- skills that mirror his approach in veterinary work. His commitment to animals extends beyond the clinic, as he continually seeks ways to support and advocate for their wellbeing in both personal and professional settings.

A proud Arizona native, she brings over five years of experience in veterinary medicine, having worked in both front-office reception and hands-on technician roles. Her deep passion for animal care is matched by the energy she brings to a busy home life with my five children, three dogs, and one cat. Outside of work, Chandra enjoys exploring the outdoors through camping, off-roading, and trips to the lake, as well as spending meaningful time with her family.

Jared is a veterinary technician new to the field, bringing a strong foundation in animal science and public health to his role. He earned his Bachelor of Animal Science from BYU–Idaho in 2025 and is currently pursuing a Master of Veterinary Public Health at Utah State University.

Jared’s interest in veterinary medicine began in high school while working as a cowboy, where he witnessed firsthand the impact a local veterinarian could have on the health and well-being of ranch animals. That early experience inspired a lasting commitment to animal care and a desire to help others better understand and improve their pets’ health.

His current professional interests center on infectious disease and preventive medicine, shaped by both his academic studies and military training in disease prevention and public health. He plans to continue his military service with a future goal of working as a veterinarian supporting the animals that serve alongside military personnel.

Outside of his professional and academic pursuits, Jared values time with his young family. He enjoys outdoor activities including camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting in the mountains. At home, he shares life with a four-year-old Dutch Shepherd who loves to chase him around the pool deck, and a domestic shorthair rescue cat who believes he is very much part of the family hierarchy.

Emmy brings her compassionate heart and love for animals to her role as a Veterinary Technician. Growing up amidst the sunny vibes of California, Emmy developed a deep connection with animals early on.

With her loyal companion Badger, a mixed breed from a shelter, Emmy understands the importance of providing love and care to every furry friend. Her journey in the veterinary field spans three years, during which she has shown dedication and commitment to the well-being of animals.

Emmy’s passion for cardiology sets her apart, as she strives to provide the best care for pets with heart-related issues. Her expertise and attention to detail make her an invaluable asset to the team, ensuring that every patient receives the specialized care they deserve.

Outside of her work at the clinic, Emmy enjoys the thrill of roller skating, gliding through life with grace and excitement. When she’s not cruising around, you can find her indulging in her creative side, whether it’s painting vibrant landscapes, constructing intricate Lego creations, or immersing herself in the thrilling world of Marvel movies.

With her warm smile, unwavering dedication, and diverse interests, Emmy is not just a veterinary technician but also a friend to every pet she encounters, committed to making a positive impact in their lives.

Meet Makenzie!

Makenzie has had a passion for veterinary medicine since she was young. Initially she wanted to become a vet but after entering the field soon fell in love with being your fur baby’s nurse. She has a strong dedication to client education and making sure you feel comfortable in taking charge of your pets medical care at home. 

In high school, she completed EVIT’s Approved Veterinary Assistant program and started her career in veterinary medicine through her externship. Not long after she joined our team here and takes pride in providing your family with the compassionate care you deserve. 

Aside from veterinary medicine, she loves spending time with her family which includes paddleboarding, watching movies, and going shopping.

Meet Lexi! Lexi has been working in the veterinary field for six years. She began her career in emergency veterinary medicine before joining the team at Empire Ranch. She has always had a passion for caring for animals and loves making a difference in the lives of pets and their families.

Lexi is currently attending Penn Foster to further her education and work toward becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT).

Outside of the clinic, Lexi’s life is filled with her own furry family! She has six dogs, two mixed breeds, one Golden Retriever, two German Shepherds, and her little Border Collie mix, Harlow. 🐾

When she’s not at work, you’ll most likely find Lexi outdoors with her pups, enjoying time at the lake or on the river, hiking, camping, and making memories with her fur babies. She feels incredibly lucky to have a career that allows her to care for animals every day!

Bailey has always had a deep love for animals and is grateful to turn that passion into a career where she can make a difference in the lives of pets and their families.

A Florence, Arizona, native, Bailey graduated from Poston Butte High School and CAVIT in 2024, where she began building her foundation in veterinary medicine. She is also one of three sisters—and a proud triplet!

One of Bailey’s favorite parts of being a Veterinary Technician is building meaningful relationships with clients and, especially, their furry family members. She loves getting to know each patient’s unique personality and helping pets and their families feel comfortable, cared for, and supported throughout their veterinary journey.

Outside of work, Bailey is a self-proclaimed coffee lover! She enjoys trying new coffee shops and drinks, and of course, never turns down a good iced coffee. She also loves spending time with her two Chihuahuas and two kitties, who keep her busy and remind her every day why she loves what she does.

Bailey is excited to continue growing her knowledge and skills in veterinary medicine while providing compassionate care to every patient who walks through the doors. She is thrilled to be part of the Empire Ranch Veterinary Hospital team!

Britt has been part of the veterinary field for two years and has four years of experience working with animals. She is currently pursuing her degree in Pre-Veterinary Sciences at Arizona State University, with the goal of becoming a veterinarian one day.

Outside of the hospital, Britt enjoys spending time with her fiancé, their 2-year-old daughter, and their four beloved pitties. She also has a passion for traveling and has visited 21 countries! Britt even had the opportunity to live in Germany for six years.

When she’s not caring for animals or studying, you can usually find Britt planning her next adventure or enjoying time with her family.

Fun fact: Britt’s favorite sea animal is the beluga whale! 

Jessica Sheley is a dedicated Veterinary Technician and proud U.S. Army Veteran with a lifelong love for animals. She attended Miller-Motte Technical College in Clarksville, Tennessee, and has built her experience through caring for dogs and cats, providing pet services, and volunteering with the Arizona Humane Society since 2024.

Jessica especially enjoys helping nervous or anxious pets feel safe and comfortable during their visits. Her patient, compassionate approach and attention to detail allow her to provide each patient with the individualized care they deserve. She loves getting to know every pet’s unique personality and being part of a team that helps improve the health and well-being of pets and their families.

Outside of the clinic, Jessica enjoys spending time with her family and pets, volunteering, traveling, reading, and exploring new places and cultures. She is passionate about personal growth and learning new things, with a goal of traveling more and experiencing different parts of the world.

Jessica is a proud pet mom to two Goldendoodles and two cats, each with their own unique personalities. Her own pets have given her an even greater appreciation for the special bond between people and their animals—and continue to inspire the compassion she brings to her work every day.