Meet Our Team

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.

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.

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 the hospital director of Johnson Ranch.

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.

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. 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. Doorenbos was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, where a lifelong passion for animals and helping others inspired her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. She earned her undergraduate degree in Animal Ecology from Iowa State University and went on to complete a master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences there as well.
Excited to return to her home state, Dr. Doorenbos earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from University of Arizona. She is proud to practice in Arizona and is dedicated to giving back to her community by providing compassionate, high-quality veterinary care.
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Doorenbos enjoys spending time outdoors. She loves hiking, kayaking, and skiing, especially when sharing those adventures with her partner.

Dr. Emily Colby is originally from Fullerton, CA in Southern California. She attended Chico State University in Chico, CA, where she majored in Animal Science for her bachelor’s degree. She later graduated from the University of Arizona with her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. She has loved animals her whole life but developed a passion for animal care while raising livestock in FFA during high school.
She has been in veterinary medicine since 2020, with most of her experience in emergency medicine. Outside of veterinary medicine, she enjoys reading, hiking, skiing, and spending time with her fiancé and her cat.

Dr. Joshua Kennon is originally from Lubbock, Texas. He completed his bachelor’s degree at Texas Tech University and gained hands-on experience as a veterinary technician for two years while also working weekends at a local animal shelter. He went on to attend Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine, where he further developed his passion for veterinary medicine.
Dr. Kennon is dedicated to meeting clients where they are and working together to provide the best care possible for their pets. He has a special place in his heart for senior animals and enjoys adopting older pets to give them a comfortable, loving home for their “golden years.”
Outside of work, Dr. Kennon is easygoing and enjoys staying active and having fun. He enjoys pickleball, hiking, playing video games, paddleboarding, and going on spontaneous adventures. During his clinical year of veterinary school, he had the opportunity to hike Angels Landing in Zion National Park and Half Dome in Yosemite National Park—experiences he will never forget. In the long term, he hopes to one day train for and take on the challenge of running the New York City Marathon.

Dr. Karla McKernan is an Arizona native, born and raised in Phoenix. Growing up, she cared for a wide variety of pets from hermit crabs and rabbits to even a goose! All of which sparked her lifelong passion for working with animals. While she always knew she wanted to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, her path became clear later in life. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Arizona in 2019, and after gaining experience as a veterinary technician, she decided to pursue veterinary school at the University of Arizona.
Her professional interests include emergency medicine and advanced diagnostic imaging, and she is equally passionate about client education and building strong relationships with pet owners.
Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. McKernan is a wife, a proud dog mom to three Cane Corsos, and a recent mother to a baby girl. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time at home with her family; whether that means binge-watching Netflix series, tackling puzzles, or getting outdoors to enjoy fresh air. She also loves traveling to new places, trying great food, and singing along at concerts whenever she gets the chance.

Dr. Kayden Shotwell is originally from Vail, Arizona, and completed both a Bachelor’s degree and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Arizona. Prior to veterinary school, Dr. Shotwell worked as an emergency veterinary technician, where a passion for emergency medicine first began. This interest continued throughout veterinary school while working in emergency and specialty practice.
Professional interests include emergency and preventive medicine, surgery, and a special passion for zoological and exotic animal medicine. During training, Dr. Shotwell worked with a variety of species, including zebras, primates, tigers, and bears, and helped care for baby spider monkeys from the illegal pet trade. Which was an experience that was a highlight of the clinical year.
At home, Dr. Shotwell has a mini zoo that includes a German Shepherd named Gravy, a leopard gecko named Stir Fry, and several aquariums filled with fish and shrimp. Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Shotwell enjoys aquascaping, baking sourdough bread, traveling, trying new foods, and spending time outdoors. Especially near the water, with favorite activities including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.

Dr. Mia Damiano is originally from the East Coast, but as a military child, she grew up moving all around the World. She obtained her bachelor’s degree from Clemson University and her veterinary degree from Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Damiano’s professional interests include emergency medicine, feline medicine, and surgery. She is committed to providing thorough, compassionate care and building strong relationships with her patients and their families. Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Damiano enjoys pilates, baking, reading, and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys.

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.

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.