Meet OurVeterinary Team

Sarah

Hospital Manager

Sarah has been a cherished member of the Elm Creek Animal Hospital team since 1999, bringing her technical expertise and a passion for nurturing the bond between pets and their owners. She graduated with her Veterinary Technology degree in 2001 and has worked in nearly every role at Elm Creek—except veterinarian—so she truly understands every part of the clinic.

At home, Sarah’s kids are now grown, but the family still loves Sunday dinners and vacationing together, especially exploring national parks. Franklin, her happy and goofy golden retriever, is her loyal sidekick—so much so that her kids jokingly tease that he’s her favorite child! Calvin, her perpetually hungry and attention-seeking cat, rounds out the crew.

Outside of work, Sarah is an avid Vikings fan, enjoys long walks with Franklin, and loves holiday baking. Her energy, warmth, and love for animals make her an invaluable part of the Elm Creek family.

Libby and Vivi

Kennel Attendants

Libby and Vivi make up our amazing kennel team and help keep Elm Creek Animal Hospital running smoothly every day! They handle everything from cleaning and organizing to assisting during procedures and giving our patients plenty of love and attention.

Their hard work ensures our clinic stays spotless and our patients are comfortable and well cared for.

We’re so grateful for Libby and Vivi’s dedication, compassion, and teamwork — they’re an essential part of what makes Elm Creek such a caring place for pets and people alike.

Tessa

Veterinary Assistant

Tessa is a Veterinary Assistant and veterinary technology student at Dakota County Technical College (DCTC). She began her veterinary career as a kennel attendant in July 2025 before transitioning into her current role as a veterinary assistant in January 2026. She loves learning something new every day and is excited to continue growing her knowledge and skills as she works toward becoming a veterinary technician.

Animals have always been a huge part of Tessa’s life. Growing up on a small farm, she developed a love for caring for animals at an early age. One of her family’s favorite stories is that when she was just three years old, she would sneak outside to hug one of their horses. From that moment on, she knew she couldn’t imagine a career that didn’t involve animals.

Tessa has a special interest in equine medicine and works at an equine veterinary clinic, where she enjoys learning about the many facets of veterinary medicine. Whether she’s caring for horses or companion animals, her favorite part of the job is building relationships with both patients and their families while helping provide the best care possible.

Although she doesn’t currently have any pets at home, Tessa has shared her life with many animals over the years, including her Newfoundland, Zoey; her horses, S’more and Dreamcatcher; a bunny; a bearded dragon named Mushu; and even chickens raised by her family.

When she’s not at the clinic, Tessa enjoys exploring her creative and adventurous sides. She’s passionate about mechanics and loves motorcycles, cars, and airplanes, a hobby she shares with her dad. She also enjoys creating art, especially ceramics, and has a lifelong fascination with dragons.

Tessa’s advice to pet owners is simple: Never hesitate to ask questions. Doing your own research is important, but your veterinary team is here to help you understand your pet’s health and make informed decisions.

What Tessa enjoys most about Elm Creek Animal Hospital is the supportive team atmosphere. She appreciates that everyone is approachable, encouraging, and always willing to help, creating an environment where she feels comfortable learning, growing, and being herself every day.

Grace

Veterinary Assistant

Grace has been working in the veterinary field since 2019 and loves being able to combine her passion for animals with helping the people who care for them. One of her favorite parts of the job is building lasting relationships with both clients and their pets while continuing to expand her knowledge and develop new skills. She enjoys that every day brings something different, with each patient and family having their own unique story.

At home, Grace is a proud cat mom to three cats. Her youngest cat, Ollie, has a special talent: he knows how to play fetch! While she’s definitely a cat person, she hopes to add a dog to her family one day, with a corgi at the top of her wish list.

Outside of work, Grace enjoys spending time outdoors fishing, boating, and hiking. This summer also marks an exciting milestone for her as she’ll be taking her very first airplane trip to Arizona!

Grace’s advice to pet owners is simple: Spend as much time as you can with your pets. They wait all day for you to come home, so give them the love they deserve.

What Grace loves most about Elm Creek Animal Hospital is the people. She appreciates that every team member brings their own unique personality and background, while sharing the same passion for providing exceptional care to every furry family member who walks through the door.

Fallon

Reception

Fallon joined the veterinary field a little over a year and a half ago after previously working in human healthcare. She was looking for a new challenge that still allowed her to do what she loves most, helping and caring for others, and found the perfect fit in veterinary medicine.

As one of our Client Service Representatives, Fallon enjoys welcoming clients and their pets to the clinic. One of her favorite parts of the job is getting to know each pet’s unique personality. Whether they’re outgoing, shy, goofy, or full of sass, she loves that no two patients are ever the same.

At home, Fallon shares her life with Lincoln, a black domestic medium-haired cat who is the biggest sweetheart. Lincoln has a special place in her heart, as she and her husband adopted him just one week after returning home from their honeymoon.

Outside of work, Fallon loves getting creative and is always working on a crafting project. Whether it’s making something by hand or trying a new creative hobby, she enjoys keeping busy and expressing her artistic side.
Fallon’s advice to pet owners is one we can all appreciate: Don’t be afraid to talk to your pets! It’s not weird…it can be therapeutic for both of you.

What Fallon enjoys most about being part of the Elm Creek Animal Hospital team is the opportunity to continue learning and growing every day while working alongside people who share her passion for helping both pets and their families.

Brooke

Veterinary Assistant

Brooke joined our team in 2016 and holds an AA degree from the Minnesota School of Business. Her favorite part of her job is the opportunity for client education. She shares her home with several pets: Henri, her cat who is a retired blood donor and quite the dignified gentleman. Chloe Beth, a Siamese Lynx point mix who begs for food every chance she gets, enjoys chewing on paper and leaves, and is the number one bug catcher. Sammy Benson, a springer/setter mix, is a pro digger, pillow hog, and extreme napper. Finn, a German Shepherd, absolutely loves car rides.

In her free time, Brooke enjoys Hoppy hour, rabbit agility, fostering animals, string art, restoring old furniture, and boating.

Ania

Veterinary Assistant

Ania has been immersed in the veterinary field since 2017, and she became a member of the Elm Creek team in 2020. Her journey is fueled by a deep passion for animals and their well-being. At home, she shares her life with three beloved family dogs and is owned by Salem, an energetic and lovable kitty who keeps things lively.

Beyond her dedication to animal care, Ania has a love for books, coffee, and all things Star Wars. Her eclectic interests reflect her vibrant personality and enrich her life both professionally and personally. In her spare time, you can often find her curled up with a good book and a cup of coffee, or indulging in her favorite Star Wars movies and memorabilia.

Beth

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Beth has been a vibrant member of the Elm Creek team since 1997! She earned her CVT and education through Kirkwood Community College Small Animal Program and U of M Waseca. Beth has a strong passion for rescuing older dogs in need, particularly pugs or French bulldogs. Dogs with smooshed noses are her specialty, and she’s currently owned by three snorting pooches: Ginny, a rescue Chihuahua/Pit mix; Shimmy, a notorious troublemaker; and her pug, Dash, the baby of the family who keeps everyone on their toes.

Outside of work, Beth’s life revolves around family activities like watching movies, visiting the fair, and exploring craft shows. Her dedication to animals and her vibrant personality make her a beloved figure in both her professional and personal life.

Chloe

Reception

Chloe is one of our Client Service Representatives and is excited to be beginning her career in the veterinary field. Working in a veterinary clinic has been a dream of hers since she was a child, and she loves being part of a team that helps care for pets and the people who love them.

One of Chloe’s favorite parts of her role is meeting all of the wonderful animals that come through our doors each day. She enjoys seeing the special bond between pets and their families and witnessing just how deeply they are loved.

At home, Chloe has a Great Dane named Indiana Bexley, who loves swimming, playing ball, and going for long walks. Spending time with Indiana is one of Chloe’s favorite ways to relax, especially when they can head to the water together and let her run and swim.

When she’s not at work, you’ll most likely find Chloe at the lake. Whether she’s wakesurfing, floating on the water, or simply enjoying a sunny day outdoors, she loves spending time outside whenever she can.

Chloe’s advice to pet owners comes straight from the heart: Love your pets unconditionally. We only have them for a short part of our lives, but you are their whole world.

What Chloe enjoys most about being part of the Elm Creek Animal Hospital team is getting to see all of the amazing animals that visit the clinic each day. Every patient is unique, and she loves being part of their care from the moment they walk through the front door.

Kaisha

Certified Veterinary Technician

Bio Coming Soon

Sabrina

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Sabrina joined Elm Creek Animal Hospital as a Certified Veterinary Technician in September 2025. Born and raised in Minnesota, she has loved animals for as long as she can remember and always knew she wanted a career dedicated to their care. Sabrina completed her veterinary technician training at Northwood Technical College in New Richmond, WI, and has a special interest in dentistry, technical skills like blood draws and IV catheter placement, and client education. She enjoys continually learning new things and growing her skills as part of the Elm Creek team.

Outside of work, Sabrina loves spending time outdoors—especially hiking and camping with her husband and their dogs, Cinnamon and Remington. Their home also includes three cats (Edwin, Mouse, and Newt, her spirited three-legged kitty), as well as a small flock of chickens. Sabrina also fosters dogs through Forever Loved Rescue, helping pets find their way to loving homes. Whether exploring nature or caring for animals of all kinds, she brings enthusiasm and compassion to everything she does.

Jenna

Veterinary Assistant

Jenna joined Elm Creek Animal Hospital as a Veterinary Technician in September 2025. Originally from Edina, she has always known she wanted to work with animals and build a career doing something she truly enjoys every day. Jenna received her training at Argosy University and has a strong passion for patient care. She especially enjoys nail trims, blood draws, IV catheter placement, and dental cleanings—tasks that bring her a real sense of satisfaction. At Elm Creek, she loves being part of a supportive team and appreciates the clinic’s separate dog and cat waiting areas, which help make visits smoother for pets and their families.

When she’s not at the clinic, Jenna can usually be found outdoors with her family, no matter the season. Jet skiing, snowmobiling, camping, visiting breweries, and relaxing at the beach are just a few of their favorite activities. At home, Jenna has two affectionate Pitbull mixes, Lilly and Willow—sweet, snuggly couch potatoes with a touch of lovable neurotic energy. Her two-year-old also proudly considers herself “part dog,” adding to the fun of their household. Jenna brings warmth, enthusiasm, and excellent technical skills to every pet she cares for.

Melissa

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Melissa, a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT), joined our team in early 2024, bringing with her over a decade of experience in veterinary care since earning her certification in 2012. Her dedication to animal welfare and expertise in veterinary medicine enrich our practice.

Outside of work, Melissa leads a vibrant life balancing her career with a range of hobbies. She finds solace in hiking through scenic trails, enjoys the thrill of hunting and fishing, and finds relaxation in diving into a good book. Melissa’s energetic companion, Ryzer, her Pudelpointer, keeps her on her toes with endless play sessions.

In addition to her furry friend, Melissa manages a bustling household of seven kids, demonstrating her remarkable ability to multitask and maintain a harmonious family life. Her passion for veterinary medicine, coupled with her active lifestyle and commitment to her family, makes Melissa a valued member of our team and a compassionate caregiver to all animals in her care.

Leslie

Certified Veterinary Technician

Leslie became a valued member of the Elm Creek team in 2015, bringing with her an AAS degree and certification from the Medical Institute of MN. Her genuine passion lies in forming connections with pet owners and their furry companions. At home, she’s the proud caretaker of two mischievous bunnies named Carlos and Harper, but her true devotion lies with guinea pigs, earning her the affectionate nickname ‘the guinea pig lady’ around here.

When she’s not at the clinic, Leslie loves indulging in outdoor adventures like fishing and kayaking. Her favorite escape is spending quality time with family and friends at her cozy cabin up north, making memories that last a lifetime.

Kelsey

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Kelsey’s favorite part of her job is performing dental cleanings and educating clients, empowering them to provide the best care for their pets.

At home, Kelsey shares her life with Sulli, her energetic Border Collie mix named after the big-hearted character from Monsters, Inc. She affectionately describes him as a “big fluffy dork,” a name that suits his playful personality perfectly.

Outside of work, Kelsey has developed a knack for crochet and enjoys crafting a variety of animal species for her family and team members. She also finds joy in solving puzzles, delving into true crime stories, and engaging in games of all kinds, fostering a well-rounded balance to her busy life.

Kelsey’s dedication to veterinary medicine and her diverse interests make her a valued member of our team, enriching both our workplace and the lives of the animals we care for.

Ben

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Ben graduated from Minnesota School of Business in 2015 and soon after obtained his CVT credentials, launching his career in veterinary care. He joined our Elm Creek team in 2019, bringing with him a passion for teaching and a curiosity for learning new things. Ben’s infectious enthusiasm is matched only by his gentle demeanor and his unmistakable Scooby-Doo giggle.

A lover of “gentle giants,” Ben has a soft spot for Great Danes. At home, he proudly cares for Carlos Rodriguez, his beloved Australian Cattle Dog mix. Beyond his veterinary work, Ben fills his spare time with diverse interests. He enjoys exploring new recipes in the kitchen, venturing out on hikes and road trips, and finding relaxation in the meditative art of knitting and baking.

Ben’s dedication to expanding his knowledge and nurturing his furry companions underscores his commitment to both professional excellence and personal fulfillment. His presence enriches our team and the lives of the animals he cares for.

Sam

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Sam has been an essential part of the Elm Creek Animal Hospital team since 2008. Her favorite aspects of her job include educating clients and, of course, meeting all the cats! She also plays a crucial role in handling difficult technical tasks like blood draws and catheters, where her expertise shines.

Outside of work, Samantha leads a full and varied life. She has a Morgan horse named Melrose and is the proud owner of Wall-E, a cat who found a home at Elm Creek as a kitten. She also shares her life with Xena, a goofy shepherd mix who keeps things lively. Samantha is a devoted mom to two adventurous kids and cherishes spending time with her family.

Recently, Samantha has developed a passion for chickens and has set up a small backyard coop where she enjoys caring for her feathered friends. In her leisure time, she also enjoys riding her horse, enthusiastically cheering on the Vikings, and snowmobiling.

keanna

Veterinary Assistant

Keanna lives with her 5 children, her dog, Luna, and their feline friend, Artemis. Keanna is actively involved in pet rescue efforts. Originally from St. Francis, she takes pride in the town’s association with the patron saint of animals. Keanna’s love for working with animals extends beyond her professional life, where her natural calming presence soothes nervous patients and fosters trust.

In her downtime, Keanna indulges in sarcasm, reading, and sharing an endless supply of dad jokes. She cherishes spending quality time outdoors with her children when she’s not at work, nurturing their sense of adventure and appreciation for nature.

Alexis

Veterinary Assistant

Alexis joined the Elm Creek Animal Hospital team in September 2021, bringing with her a background in Exercise Science from Southwest MN State University. Her passion for animals led her to change career paths and pursue her dream of working with them.

Both of her rescue lab mixes, Wesson and Moose, are Alexis’s constant companions, bringing joy and mischief to her life. In addition to caring for her furry friends, Alexis enjoys spending time with her family, watching movies, and engaging in outdoor activities like camping. Her love for animals and commitment to their well-being make her a valued member of our team and a dedicated pet parent.

Dr. Michael Conforti

DVM

Dr. Michael Conforti is a dedicated veterinarian with a broad range of experiences across multiple sectors of the animal care and medical industries. His love for animals began early in life, as he frequently brought home strays and dreamt of becoming a veterinarian. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine in 1997, Dr. Conforti practiced dairy medicine and surgery for two years in Wisconsin, drawn to the rural lifestyle and inspired by the veterinary work depicted in the tv show “All Creatures Great and Small”. However, his deep interest in life science research and medical devices led him to a successful 25-year career in the medical device industry, where he took on roles ranging from scientist and veterinarian to business owner and janitor. In 2021, he sold his business and shifted his focus to a new software venture. While the transition was interesting, his passion for veterinary medicine never wavered, and in 2023, he returned to clinical practice. In addition to his primary role, Dr. Conforti works part-time with an in-home euthanasia service and assists at a local animal shelter, where he performs high-quality, high-volume spay and neuter surgeries. Outside of his professional life, Dr. Conforti enjoys spending time with his wife, Pam, and their three adult children, all of whom live in the Twin Cities. The family also shares their home with two adopted cats, Pip and Onyx, after losing their beloved dog Pazza and cat Mysti in 2023. As a family, they enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, camping, and canoeing. Dr. Conforti is an avid racquetball player and a longtime golfer, finding joy in both sports, although he prefers the outdoor camaraderie of golf over focusing on his handicap. Originally from Illinois, Dr. Conforti and Pam make frequent trips to visit family in both Illinois and Iowa.

Dr. Mady Gilles

DVM

Dr. Mady Gilles earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota. Prior to veterinary school, she worked as a veterinary assistant in a small animal practice, where she built a strong foundation in companion animal care. She has a special interest in veterinary dentistry.

Dr. Gilles’ passion for veterinary medicine comes from combining her love of animals, science, and helping people. She hopes every client knows that she is committed to partnering with pet parents to help their companions live long, healthy, and happy lives through compassionate care and open communication.

Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, crafting with friends, and spending time outdoors at the lake in the summer and snowmobiling in the winter. She is also fascinated by honey bees and hopes to keep a hive of her own someday.

Dr. Michaela Manderfeld

DVM

Dr. Michaela Manderfeld is a Minnesota native and graduate of Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, earning her DVM in 2020 as the youngest in her class. Her work focuses on preventative care, urgent care, and dentistry for dogs, cats, and pocket pets.

She has been passionate about animal rescue from a young age, volunteering with a rescue group in high school and continuing that mission through veterinary school, where she and her husband fostered numerous neglected and abused dogs. They continue to foster through several Minnesota-based rescue organizations and share their home with one of their beloved foster “failures,” Lolli.

Dr. Manderfeld is Fear Free Certified and committed to making vet visits as low-stress as possible. Outside of work, she enjoys running, spending time outdoors with her family, and trying out new coffee shops.

Dr. Jackie Lozinski

DVM

Dr. Jackie Lozinski, a native of the Twin Cities, earned both her undergraduate and veterinary degrees from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. She got married in the summer of 2024 and has a strong affinity for senior pets, particularly cats. Currently residing with her husband, their dog Iris, and their three beloved cats named Mia, Bruce, and Raya. Naturally, the cats rule the house with their unique personalities and preferences.

She is deeply committed to providing high-quality medical care and ensuring pets feel safe and comfortable during veterinary visits. Dr. Lozinski is certified in Fear Free handling (Level 3) and is dedicated to practicing Feline Friendly techniques. Outside of her veterinary work, she enjoys traveling and spending time with cats, appreciating their unique perspectives on the world. Her professional interests also include dentistry and soft tissue surgery.

Dr. Jennifer Freitag

DVM

Dr. Jennifer Freitag has been a valued member of the Elm Creek Family since January 2021, bringing her expertise and dedication to the practice. Originally from Sheldon, Iowa, she pursued her undergraduate and veterinary degrees at Iowa State University. Dr. Freitag is deeply committed to delivering top-tier medical care while also emphasizing the importance of the human-animal bond. Her professional focus extends to internal medicine and dentistry, showcasing her broad range of skills and interests in the veterinary field. In addition to her professional commitments, cherishes spending quality time with her two young children, balancing her passion for veterinary medicine with her role as a devoted parent.

Dr. Michelle Zanol

DVM

We welcomed Dr. Zanol to Elm Creek in April of 2018, and she has quickly become a cherished member of our team, bringing joy to staff, clients, and patients alike! Dr. Zanol earned her undergraduate degree from the University of MN in 2005 and her veterinary degree from Iowa State in 2010.

Her love for cocker spaniels runs deep; it all started with her husband’s beloved cocker spaniel, Joe (may he rest in peace). Now, she shares her home with Jack, whom she rescued in 2016, as well as Jager and Jasper, two lively additions to the family. Crush, her 8-year-old orange tabby, adds to the lively household dynamic.

Dr. Zanol and her husband, John, enjoy football, fishing, hiking, and camping together. When she’s not caring for animals, you can find her running marathons or indulging in her favorite hobby: crafting up a storm!

Dr. Mey Nevo

Medical Director

Dr. Mey Nevo graduated from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in May 2007. She has had the opportunity to practice veterinary medicine in Illinois, Tennessee, New Jersey, and Minnesota while following her husband through his Small Animal Internal Medicine internship and residency. They finally settled down here in Minnesota to be closer to family. Dr. Nevo shares her life with her wonderful husband Dr. Steven Shadwick, their daughters Sophie, and Lucy, and their son, Robert. “These three little ones offer new and exciting challenges on a daily basis”. Her household also includes Bruce and Ruby, a couple of young and energetic border terriers who keep the whole family on their toes! As you can guess it is very busy these days at the Nevo-Shadwick household!!

Dr. Nevo is passionate about bringing a personal touch to her patient care. She has attended additional training in veterinary ultrasonography and has been integrating this imaging modality to her diagnostic repertoire on a daily basis since 2008. Dr. Nevo’s extensive ultrasound training has allowed her to bring advanced diagnostics to her clients at an affordable rate. In addition to advanced imaging techniques, Dr. Nevo’s interests include soft-tissue surgery and internal medicine.

Dr. Jennifer Blum

Medical Director

Dr. Jennifer Blum graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison College of Veterinary Medicine in May 2006. Her passion for animals began early on while growing up on a dairy farm in Northwest Wisconsin, where she was deeply involved in 4-H and community activities. This upbringing fueled her journey into veterinary medicine, with special interests in dentistry, internal medicine, and dermatology.

At home, Dr. Blum lives with her husband, their twin girls, and their lively Labrador retriever, Eddy, who has now reached his senior years. Tigey, their mischievous tabby cat, reigns as the true boss of the household, always finding herself in amusing predicaments.

Outside of her veterinary practice, Dr. Blum and her family thrive on outdoor adventures like camping and hiking. When indoors, she enjoys baking with her daughters, creating sweet memories together.