Meet Dr. Mark Beerenstrauch, the driving force behind Pet Health Hospital, where the mission goes beyond care alone. The vision is to revolutionize the veterinary experience for both pets and their parents, making vet visits more enjoyable for everyone, team members included.

What got him interested in veterinary care? His journey into veterinary medicine was shaped by an unexpected friend, Nita. This dog came into his life and changed it for good, redirecting his path from business management to pet care. Over two decades, he’s nurtured this passion into a career that transcends the conventional boundaries of veterinary practice.

Unsatisfied with the impersonal nature of high volume and corporate veterinary settings, he founded Pet Health Hospital, a sanctuary where quality care, personalized experiences, and scientifically grounded treatments are not just ideals—they work to the highest standards every day. This transition was fueled by a desire to go deeper, building more meaningful connections with pets and their families, and reshaping the essence of veterinary care.

At the heart of his work lies a deep-seated passion for transforming the pet parent experience and elevating their team’s expertise through rigorous training. They create an environment where every interaction is meaningful and every visit is comforting. Inspired by the wisdom of thought leaders and the latest innovations in both veterinary and business practices, they’ve cultivated a culture that prioritizes empathy, excellence, and continuous learning.

Beyond the walls of Pet Health Hospital, his life consists of the joys of family, the companionship of their beloved pets, and a connection to the earth through their family farm in Nebraska. Photography and an enduring passion for sports, particularly those involving the University of Nebraska, offer him a cherished escape, enriching his life with balance.

Originally from Buffalo, NY, by way of Wisconsin, Dr. Clarke has lived in Las Vegas since 2019. She attended Duke University for undergrad and the University of Wisconsin for vet school. Originally a shelter medicine specialist, Dr. Clarke worked at animal shelters nationwide before moving to Las Vegas to work at The Animal Foundation. While a staff member at TAF, she started bringing her senior cat to Pet Health for acupuncture. She liked what she saw at Pet Health; the rest is history.

An avowed cat lady, Dr. Clarke specializes in kitties with a particular interest in the extremes—senior care and neonatology. Shelter medicine gave her a ton of experience in the health issues of very young kittens, and since moving to private practice, she has enjoyed getting advanced training in senior care, including becoming acupuncture certified. She prides herself on speaking cat well and being able to put nervous patients at ease. She also loves surgery and dental surgery, which she got a ton of experience with during her shelter days.

In her free time, Dr. Clarke enjoys spending time with her cats (don’t ask how many; she knows it’s too many), baking, eating the things she bakes, reading, knitting, and doing spay/neuter at The Animal Foundation. Her next life goal is to master the baking of macarons.

Meet Dr. Minas Mkhitarian, a dedicated veterinarian at Pet Health Hospital. For Dr. Minas Mkhitarian, the human-animal bond is a tremendous source of joy. It was sparked by his childhood companion, Poopoosh, a miniature poodle who ignited his lifelong love for animals. This personal connection helps fuel his commitment to excellence in veterinary care. Dr. Mkhitarian pursued a Bachelor’s in Biology from the University of Nevada, Reno, followed by a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Washington State University.

Dr. Mkhitarian’s approach to veterinary care involves attentively listening to concerns and providing a personalized, unhurried experience. At Pet Health Hospital, Dr. Mkhitarian values the culture of collaboration and the emphasis on quality care. Regular brainstorming with his colleagues and veterinary specialists, along with consulting the latest veterinary research, allow him to refine his practice continuously.

When he’s not working with patients and clients at Pet Health, you can find Dr. Mkhitarian at church or spending time with his family and friends. He delights in good food and coffee, so you can also find him sampling coffee from all over the world or cooking food for friends. He has a Standard Poodle named Dzaza, with a name meaning “overflowing cup”. It’s a metaphor from one of Dr. Mkhitarian’s favorite Psalms – a reminder that he has received many gifts including Dzaza which cause his cup to overflow. Dr. Mkhitarian enjoys hiking, backpacking, and exploring the Mojave Desert with Dzaza outside the hospital.

Dr. Prema Nissinen brings a heartfelt dedication to veterinary care shaped by both her rural roots and academic achievements. Originally from Oklahoma City, she spent over two decades in Oregon before relocating to Las Vegas as a military spouse. Her journey into veterinary medicine began with a love for animals and blossomed into a passion for science during her high school and undergraduate years. She earned both her Honors Bachelor of Science in Biology and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Oregon State University—proudly calling herself an “eight-year Beaver.”

At Pet Health, Dr. Nissinen values the opportunity to form meaningful relationships with pet parents and to take the time needed to deliver thoughtful, personalized care. Her areas of interest include cardiology, ophthalmology, and surgery—fields where detailed diagnostics and treatment can truly transform quality of life. She also brings a research background in the human-animal bond, having completed an undergraduate thesis exploring how pet attachment styles influence problem-solving behaviors.

Outside the clinic, Dr. Nissinen enjoys reading historical fiction, attending Broadway musicals, staying active through running and weightlifting, and exploring music with the guitar, ukulele, and piano. She grew up in a small farming and ranching town on the Columbia Plateau, where she drove tractors, raised lambs for the fair, and graduated in a high school class of just 14 students—experiences that continue to influence her grounded and community-oriented approach to veterinary medicine.

Dr. Nissinen is currently keeping an eye out for the next perfect feline companion, following the recent passing of her beloved childhood cat. In the meantime, she’s focused on helping pets and their people thrive—one thoughtful appointment at a time.

Dr. Nicole Greco’s passion for veterinary medicine began early—she first told her parents she wanted to be a veterinarian at just four years old. Her lifelong connection to animals was shaped by her childhood dog, Diamond, and later deepened by her soul dog, Diesel, who has been by her side since 2017. These relationships continue to guide her compassionate, patient-centered approach to care.

At Pet Health, Dr. Greco values the opportunity to spend meaningful time with pets and their families. She appreciates the extended appointments that allow for thorough discussions, thoughtful evaluations, and the chance to answer questions fully. She believes the best outcomes come from collaboration and enjoys involving pet parents in each step of the appointment—at whatever level makes them and their pet most comfortable.

Listening is at the heart of Dr. Greco’s philosophy. She strongly believes that pet parents know their pets best and strives to create a space where concerns are heard, respected, and addressed. She finds deep fulfillment in fostering the human–animal bond and loves watching patients grow, reach milestones, and thrive alongside devoted pet parents.

Dr. Greco shares her home with a lively crew: Diesel, her loyal pittie-lab mix; Grizli, a sweet and spirited pocket pittie she first saw on ultrasound before adopting; Kodak, an independent tabby; and Indi, a Turkish Van with acrobatic flair. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking with her dogs, reading, and traveling to music festivals with friends.

Brandon Coyle has been integral to Pet Health Hospital since its opening in 2014. As the Business Manager, Brandon ensures that each day runs smoothly, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for the team and pet parents. His passion for fostering meaningful connections between pets and their families shines through in every interaction, contributing to Pet Health’s reputation as a place where pets receive expert care and genuine compassion.

Brandon finds the happiness of pet parents and the team most fulfilling in his role as they work together to provide exceptional care. He’s dedicated to building a positive experience for everyone who walks through Pet Health’s doors and ensuring the hospital is equipped with the tools and resources needed to deliver the highest standard of care. For Brandon, Pet Health is more than just a workplace—it’s a second family and a home away from home.

A pet parent himself, Brandon understands the importance of quality care and recommends pet insurance to help families provide for their pets’ needs. His own pets, Pebbles the Lhasa Apso and Rori the Labradoodle, bring joy and warmth to his life, and he’s especially touched by the bond between Rori and his son.

Outside of work, Brandon loves traveling, exploring the outdoors with his family, and attending sporting events. A recent visit to the San Diego Zoo highlighted his son’s compassion for animals, reflecting Brandon’s dedication to animal welfare—a value he brings daily to his role at Pet Health.

Driven by her lifelong passion for animals, Darian Fernandez brings exceptional dedication and experience to her role as a receptionist at Pet Health. With a degree in English and Literature, a compassionate approach, and outstanding communication skills, Darian creates a welcoming environment for every pet parent she meets. Her leadership, exemplary customer service, and ability to understand the bigger picture of the unique experience Pet Health provides have made her an invaluable team member since 2020.

Darian finds fulfillment in building meaningful relationships with pet parents, guiding them on their educational journey in pet care, and helping them better understand their pets’ health needs. Her dedication to the team, clients, and patients shines through in every interaction, embodying the care and compassion Pet Health is known for. By blending professionalism with empathy, Darian ensures every pet parent feels welcomed, valued, and supported. She thrives in her role, not only contributing to the well-being of pets and their families but also staying deeply connected to the Las Vegas pet community through her commitment and passion for the veterinary field.

Her role is deeply personal—she applies the knowledge she gains from the veterinary team to care for her own four beloved dogs: Dax, Dezi, Odin, and River. Pet Health’s educational approach allows her to continuously learn and grow, fostering her passion and increasing the quality of life for her own fur babies while becoming the best pet parent she can be.

Outside of work, Darian enjoys reading, writing, drawing, and solving puzzles, while staying committed to lifelong learning. She is proud to be part of the Pet Health team, where her passion for animal care and personal growth continues to flourish.

Jaclin Shaddox has been a valued member of the Pet Health team since 2021, bringing her dedication to compassionate care and professional service to every interaction. Her journey in veterinary medicine began as a young mother looking for a meaningful career. She discovered her passion for helping pets and their families while working at a veterinary clinic. That rewarding experience sparked a lasting commitment to the field and eventually led her to Pet Health.

Jaclin finds the greatest fulfillment in positively impacting the lives of pets and pet parents, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and informed. She builds strong connections with pet parents through empathetic communication and excellent customer service. Her collaborative approach with the Pet Health team ensures that each patient receives the highest level of care in a supportive and welcoming environment.

At home, Jaclin is a proud pet parent to two energetic Labrador Retrievers, who fill her life with joy and unconditional love. Her experiences with her pets deepen her understanding of the bond between animals and their families, which she channels into her work at Pet Health.

Outside of work, Jaclin enjoys spending time with her two sons, whether on adventures or enjoying quiet moments at home. She also finds relaxation in exploring treasures at HomeGoods, indulging her love for unique finds. Her dedication to her family, clients, and coworkers makes her a vital part of the Pet Health family.

Nevaeh Covino has always had a heart for animals. Growing up in a family known for rescuing dogs off the streets, she learned early on the joy and responsibility of caring for those who can’t speak for themselves. That deep-rooted connection to animals ultimately guided her to Pet Health, where she now plays an essential role as a Pet Parent Experience Specialist.

As the first face many pet parents see when they arrive, Nevaeh thrives on creating a warm, welcoming environment. Her ability to listen with empathy and communicate clearly ensures that every pet parent feels heard and supported from the moment they walk in. She sees each interaction as an opportunity to build trust and partnership—making the veterinary experience calmer and more collaborative for pets and their people alike.

Nevaeh’s commitment to animals extends far beyond the hospital doors. At home, she shares her life with a lively and beloved group of pets, including two dogs (Doobie and Cypress), a cat (Marceline), five geckos, and a snake. Each one reflects her deep passion for animal care and her appreciation for all creatures—furry, scaled, or otherwise.

Whether she’s coordinating appointments, easing pet parent concerns, or grooming pets in her free time, Nevaeh approaches every task with care, kindness, and an unwavering belief in the human-animal bond. For her, working at Pet Health isn’t just a job—it’s the fulfillment of a lifelong purpose to support and advocate for animals, one moment at a time.

Faith Yung brings warmth, empathy, and a lifelong love of animals to her role as a Pet Parent Experience Specialist at Pet Health. Born and raised in Hawaii, Faith grew up surrounded by cows, horses, chickens, and goats—experiences that shaped her deep connection to animals and inspired her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.

At Pet Health, Faith is proud to be part of a team that prioritizes education, communication, and meaningful partnerships with pet parents. She sees herself as a bridge of trust—ensuring families feel informed, heard, and supported at every step of their pet’s care. For Faith, exceptional patient care happens when pet parents are included in decision-making and feel genuinely understood.

Faith shares her home with two beloved cats, Nori and ‘Opihi. After moving to Las Vegas from Hawaii, she adopted Nori—then a frightened shelter cat—and patiently helped her grow into a confident companion.  That experience continues to influence how Faith interacts with patients today: she strives to provide the same gentle, top-notch care she would want for her own pets. 

Outside of work, Faith enjoys traveling, hiking, shopping, and spending time with family and friends.   She also loves baking cookies and cakes, crafting scrapbooks, painting, and making handmade cards.  Faith hopes to continue learning and growing in veterinary medicine, with future plans to expand her education and advance her career. 

Her kindness, ambition, and heartfelt dedication make her a valued member of the Pet Health team.

Since joining Pet Health Hospital in 2018, Vanessa Alfaro has brought dedication, compassion, and a genuine love for animals to her role as a Veterinary Technician. With a lifelong passion for animal welfare, Vanessa knew early on that her purpose was to care for needy pets. She finds the most fulfillment in comforting elderly or terminally ill pets, ensuring they feel safe, loved, and valued during their care.

Vanessa’s approach to veterinary medicine emphasizes the importance of effective communication with pet parents. She believes fostering trust and understanding is essential to providing exceptional care, and she takes pride in helping pet parents feel comfortable and informed about their pets’ well-being. For Vanessa, Pet Health represents the gold standard of veterinary care, and she is proud to be part of a team that shares her commitment to excellence.

As a pet parent, Vanessa sets a high standard for the care she provides, treating each patient with the same compassion she gives her pets. Her dog, Percy, known for his “precious little smile,” and her spirited sphynx cat, Ophelia, bring joy and laughter to her life. Percy’s playful nature and Ophelia’s sass keep her smiling and remind her of pets’ impact on our lives.

Outside work, Vanessa enjoys discovering new vegetarian restaurants and spending time with Percy on outdoor adventures. Her dedication to pet welfare and empathetic approach make her a valued member of the Pet Health team and a trusted advocate for pets and their families.

Matthew Horst joined the Pet Health Hospital team in 2023, bringing with him a lifelong love for animals and a commitment to creating a low-stress environment for pets. From a young age, Matthew was captivated by animals, which inspired him to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. At Pet Health, he finds fulfillment in ensuring that each pet feels calm and safe, taking pride in offering gentle care that minimizes anxiety for his patients.

Matthew’s dedication to compassionate, low-stress handling is supported by his personal experience as a pet parent. His two pets—Buddy, a 14-year-old tabby cat, and Dizzy, a spirited 3-year-old blue heeler—have deepened his empathy for pet parents. Understanding the bond between pets and their families, he strives to provide the highest level of care, treating every patient as his own.

Outside of work, Matthew is passionate about gaming, whether video or board games and enjoys the thrill of immersive storytelling. He also loves going to the movies, where he finds inspiration and a fun escape. Matthew’s blend of patience, compassion, and attention to detail make him a valuable member of the Pet Health team, dedicated to delivering an exceptional experience for pets and their families.

Cierra Carlyle joined the Pet Health team in 2023, bringing a heartfelt passion for animal welfare and client education to her role as a Veterinary Technician. Her journey into veterinary medicine was driven by the joy she experienced helping a family adopt their first dog while working in shelter medicine. Cierra knew she wanted to bring that same sense of fulfillment to her work at Pet Health, where she joined under the recommendation of Dr. Mkhitarian, a respected colleague she admired from a previous clinic.

Cierra finds her greatest satisfaction in educating pet parents, encouraging them to ask questions and feel empowered in their pets’ care. She believes there are no “stupid questions” and appreciates every opportunity to explain veterinary procedures and treatments in a way that helps pet parents understand and feel more comfortable. Her dedication to client education aligns with Pet Health’s commitment to providing thorough resources and support to families navigating new diagnoses or treatments.

As a pet parent herself, Cierra’s care philosophy is shaped by her love for her beagle, Fiona, a retired research dog, and Boots, her affectionate cat. Her experiences with past pets, especially Coco, a diabetic and elderly foster cat, have deepened her compassion and understanding for pets with special needs, which she brings to each patient interaction.

Outside of work, Cierra enjoys crocheting and gaming—especially “Stardew Valley”—and recently celebrated a personal milestone by purchasing her first new car. Her compassion, dedication to learning, and respect for pets and pet parents make her a valued part of the Pet Health family.

Lesley Wells-Mleczko joined the Pet Health team with a lifelong appreciation for the human-animal bond and a desire to advocate for pets who cannot speak for themselves. Inspired by her own experiences as a pet parent, she pursued a career in veterinary medicine to provide compassionate care, educate pet parents, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of pets. Her experiences as a veterinary technician have only strengthened her passion for the profession and reinforced her long-term goal of becoming a veterinarian.

Lesley finds the greatest fulfillment in helping patients through some of their most vulnerable moments. Whether she is comforting a nervous pet, assisting with treatment, or celebrating a patient’s recovery, she treasures the opportunity to build trust with both pets and their families. She believes that exceptional veterinary care is built on open communication, compassion, and a true partnership between the medical team and the people who know their pets best.

At home, Lesley shares her life with two beloved dogs—a Border Collie/Golden Retriever mix who was her constant companion throughout college and a playful corgi who completed the family. Their unconditional love and companionship have shaped the way she approaches every patient, reminding her that every pet deserves patience, understanding, and individualized care.

Outside of work, Lesley enjoys hiking, snowboarding, line dancing, staying active at the gym, and relaxing at home with her dogs. She is currently preparing for the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) while strengthening her veterinary school application. Her dedication to lifelong learning, compassionate patient care, and personal growth makes her a valued member of the Pet Health team.

Natalie Powell has been a dedicated member of the Pet Health team since 2021, bringing her lifelong love for animals to her role as a Veterinary Assistant. Caring for pets as part of her daily work is a dream come true for Natalie. She finds the greatest joy in seeing puppies and kittens grow into healthy adults and watching sick patients recover and return for happy, healthy visits.

Natalie’s role extends beyond providing care; she also ensures that pet parents leave with cherished memories by capturing adorable pictures of their beloved pets. She believes in treating every patient as her own, a mindset shaped by her experiences as a pet parent. Her two dogs, Finn, her loyal and wise first companion, and Cece, her playful “baby of the family,” remind her daily of the deep bond between pets and their owners.

One of Natalie’s most memorable moments involved Finn’s recovery after a serious exploratory surgery. Witnessing him perk up and eat during her visit was a turning point in his care, and the joy of bringing him home reaffirmed her dedication to supporting pets and their families during challenging times.

Outside of work, Natalie enjoys spending quality time with Finn and Cece, whether on daily walks, in the park or simply at home. A passionate traveler, she loves exploring new places and embracing new experiences. Natalie’s compassion, empathy, and love for animals make her an integral part of the Pet Health family, ensuring every pet and pet parent feels cared for and valued.

Madison Peller has been a dedicated member of the Pet Health team since 2022. She brings her passion for helping those who can’t help themselves to her role as a Veterinary Assistant. For Madison, the most rewarding part of her job is seeing the transformation in acupuncture patients—watching pets who once struggled to move return to the clinic and walk happily and independently brings her immense joy.

Madison’s commitment to patient care goes above and beyond. She frequently attends appointments for pets who feel more at ease with familiar faces and has even picked up pets from their homes to ensure they receive the care they need. Her focus on building trust and comfort for pets and parents exemplifies her dedication to providing exceptional care.

As a pet parent, Madison’s experiences with her corgi, Nemo, and her Akita have deepened her empathy and understanding. Despite a hip injury, Nemo’s spirited personality and her Akita’s resilience inspire Madison to advocate for the best care possible. She often shares her firsthand knowledge of the value of pet insurance, which has provided significant support for her pets’ orthopedic surgeries.

Outside of work, Madison enjoys reading and volunteering with large animals. A recent milestone in her personal life—getting engaged —has brought even more joy to her journey. Madison’s compassion, dedication, and proactive approach make her an integral part of the Pet Health team, enhancing the lives of pets and their families.

Vicky Rowan joined the Pet Health team in 2023, driven by her passion for helping pets and improving their quality of life. As a Veterinary Assistant, she strives to ensure every pet has a positive, comfortable, and even fun experience at the clinic. Vicky also takes pride in educating pet parents, empowering them with the knowledge and tools to support their pets’ wellness at home.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of Vicky’s role is building trust and open communication with pet parents. She believes that education is the cornerstone of effective care, and she values the opportunity to make each visit beneficial for the pets and enriching for their families. Being part of Pet Health’s team, where genuine compassion is at the heart of every interaction, aligns perfectly with Vicky’s values and commitment to veterinary care.

At home, Vicky shares her life with her pit bull and miniature blue heeler, who bring endless joy, laughter, and light into her world. Their unwavering companionship inspires her empathy and dedication to supporting the special bond between pets and their families.

When she’s not at work, Vicky enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and park outings with her dogs. A creative spirit, she’s passionate about painting and interior design. Vicky is also actively continuing her education in veterinary medicine, working toward certifications to further enhance her career. Her warmth, expertise, and enthusiasm make her a vital member of the Pet Health team.

Danielle Moore has always known that working with animals was her calling—and fortunately for the Pet Health team, that calling led her right back to us. After originally being part of the Pet Health family, Danielle and her husband moved to Colorado, but in 2025, we were thrilled to welcome her back. Her return has only strengthened her commitment to our mission of personalized, purpose-driven care.

Danielle finds deep satisfaction in helping pet parents understand the importance of dental health—one of her favorite parts of veterinary medicine. She loves witnessing the transformation in pets who receive proper dental care and the comfort it brings to both pets and their families. Danielle approaches every patient as if they were her own, a philosophy rooted in her strong bond with her own pets.

Her two cats, Penny and Parker—adopted from The Animal Foundation in 2020—are at the center of her life and the heart of her motivation. Penny, in particular, has inspired Danielle both personally and professionally. After receiving an uncommon medical diagnosis, Penny became a regular at physical therapy, proving to Danielle that “cats can do anything dogs can!”

Outside the clinic, Danielle enjoys hiking, watching football, and doing puzzles. Whether she’s caring for patients or exploring a trail, Danielle brings dedication, empathy, and a love of learning to everything she does.

Lindsey Hunt joined the Pet Health team in May of 2025, bringing with her a lifelong passion for animals and a genuine desire to help both pets and their people feel seen, heard, and supported. With a degree in Biological Sciences and a long-standing interest in equine medicine, Lindsey is drawn to veterinary care because it allows her to combine compassion with purpose.

In her role as a Pet Parent Experience Specialist, Lindsey is often the first person pet parents interact with, and she embraces that responsibility with warmth and professionalism. She takes pride in creating a welcoming, reassuring environment—answering questions, guiding families through the process, and building trust from the very first interaction. For Lindsey, helping pet parents feel confident and cared for is as meaningful as caring for the pets themselves.

As a pet parent to three beloved companions—Milo, Mia, and Milli—Lindsey understands the deep emotional connection between humans and animals firsthand. Her personal experience has shaped her empathetic approach and reminds her that pets’ emotional well-being matters just as much as their physical health. This perspective fuels her commitment to providing thoughtful, personalized service.

Outside of work, Lindsey enjoys reading, horseback riding, and spending time with loved ones. She finds joy in the outdoors and takes pride in her recent academic achievement, earning her Bachelor of Science degree. Lindsey’s kindness, focus, and deep-rooted love for animals make her a valued member of the Pet Health team and a vital connection point for every pet parent who walks through the door.