At Pet Central Animal Hospital, we believe that pets are family. That’s why we’ve assembled a team of compassionate and highly skilled professionals dedicated to providing exceptional veterinary care for your beloved companions. From routine check-ups to advanced medical treatments, our team at Pet Central Animal Hospital is committed to ensuring the health and well-being of your pets. Get to know the individuals who make Pet Central Animal Hospital a trusted name in pet care.
Our Veterinarians at Pet Central Animal Hospital
Dr. Philip Nelson
Founder
Dr. Philip Nelson’s journey in veterinary medicine began in December 1973 when he acquired a veterinary practice then situated in a storefront near 25th Street and Central Avenue Northeast. In 2006, Pet Central Animal Hospital moved to its current, state-of-the-art facility on Central Avenue Northeast, reflecting Dr. Nelson’s commitment to growth and enhanced pet care. Dr. Nelson takes great pride in leading a team of talented veterinarians and remains deeply devoted to his clients. His approach to veterinary medicine is grounded in practicality and common sense, always prioritizing the pet’s well-being and client’s best interests. “I believe that if you take care of people, they will take care of you,” is a guiding principle for Dr. Nelson and Pet Central Animal Hospital.
For Dr. Nelson, the welfare of every pet has always been paramount. “I try to do the best that I can and treat them as I would my own,” he states, encapsulating the core philosophy of Pet Central Animal Hospital. While Dr. Nelson is no longer regularly seeing patients, he remains a familiar and welcoming presence around the clinic, often visiting with staff and clients alike.
Dr. Hilary Faas, DVM
Medical Director
Dr. Faas is the esteemed Medical Director at Pet Central Animal Hospital, bringing a wealth of experience and a vibrant personality to our team. Her journey with Pet Central began in 2000 when she joined as a technician. After earning her DVM from Ross University in 2012, her passion for Pet Central drew her back. In 2018, Dr. Faas took on the leadership role of Medical Director and has excelled ever since, guiding the medical direction of Pet Central Animal Hospital with expertise and enthusiasm. Known for her dedication to patient care and her ability to foster a supportive family culture among the staff, Dr. Faas ensures that Pet Central remains a welcoming and efficient animal hospital. Her sense of humor and unwavering commitment to helping pets live their healthiest lives make her an invaluable asset to Pet Central Animal Hospital.
Quote to know Dr. Faas by: “Uh-huh”
Dr. Mary Ngo, DVM
Dr. Ngo, a St. Paul native, is a dedicated veterinarian at Pet Central Animal Hospital. She graduated from the University of Minnesota with her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2006 and began her career at Pet Central shortly after. Dr. Ngo is integral to fostering the familial and community-oriented atmosphere that Pet Central Animal Hospital is known for. Her professional interests include avian and exotic medicine, reflecting her personal passion for a wide range of animals. Dr. Ngo’s own pet family includes four birds – Lydia, Wasabi, Ponzu, and Kruizer – along with three dogs (Mochi, Mango, and Soba) and even a crayfish named Pebbles. Beyond her veterinary pursuits, Dr. Ngo enjoys reading and various crafts such as quilting, cross-stitching, and scrapbooking.
Dr. Jasmine Hoveland, DVM
Dr. Hoveland joined Pet Central Animal Hospital in June 2019, bringing with her a strong background in veterinary care. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota after working for over five years as a veterinary technician, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of animal healthcare. Although not originally from Minnesota, Dr. Hoveland is well-accustomed to cold climates, having grown up on a farm in Montana. Her diverse animal experience includes training and racing sled dogs, and she currently shares her home with four bulldogs and a Dogo Argentino named Lex. She also has a fondness for fish. Outside of her veterinary work at Pet Central Animal Hospital, Dr. Hoveland enjoys exploring new restaurants and relaxing with her favorite TV shows, Grey’s Anatomy and Game of Thrones.
Quote to know Dr. Hoveland by: “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle you know nothing about.” -Ian Maclaren
Dr. Cally Devitt, DVM
Dr. Devitt has been part of the Pet Central Animal Hospital community for many years, officially joining the team in May 2016. Remarkably, she has been bringing her own pets to Pet Central since childhood, demonstrating a long-standing connection with the hospital. She holds a Bachelor’s in Biology from Saint Catherine University and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota. Prior to becoming a veterinarian, Dr. Devitt gained valuable experience as a technician at Pet Central and volunteered with numerous local animal organizations. Known for her articulate nature and love for literature—citing Garth Nix and Mary Roach as favorite authors—Dr. Devitt also appreciates engaging art and shares her life with a lively group of seven pets, ranging from chihuahuas to leopard geckos.
Quote to know Dr. Devitt by: “Worship the potato? The idea seemed silly to me. But then I thought, what else is more deserving of worship? It’s simple, it comes from the earth, and it can kill you if you disobey it.”
Dr. Andrew Brothers, DVM
Description under construction
Dr. Eleanor Stenglein, DVM
Dr. Stenglein is a recent addition to Pet Central Animal Hospital, officially joining us as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in July 2023 after receiving her degree from Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. However, her association with Pet Central extends back to her externships during veterinary school. Born and raised in Northeast Minneapolis and a family friend of Dr. Nelson, Dr. Stenglein feels like she’s come “home” to Pet Central. Before her career in veterinary medicine, she worked extensively in the restaurant and service industry. Outside of the clinic, Dr. Stenglein enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and gardening. She owns a horse named Shadrach and, according to her colleagues at Pet Central Animal Hospital, it’s only a matter of time before she adopts another animal in need!
Quote to know Dr. Stenglein by: “Follow your dreams for as you dream so shall you become.”
Practice Management at Pet Central Animal Hospital
Tina
Lead Technician & Practice Manager
Tina has been a dedicated member of Pet Central Animal Hospital since 2013, taking on numerous crucial roles within the clinic. Currently serving as both Lead Technician and Practice Manager, Tina’s responsibilities are vast and vital to the smooth operation of Pet Central Animal Hospital. A graduate of the Minnesota School of Business with a Veterinary Technician degree, Tina expertly manages both the technical and administrative aspects of the hospital. At home, she cares for a lively group of pets including Fireball the terrier, Francisco the tabby cat, Kitti the tortoiseshell long-hair, and Bowser (formerly Baby Bowser) the black cat. Beyond her work and pets, Tina enjoys gaming and supporting the Minnesota Vikings with her husband Trent and their two sons. Known for her festive spirit, Tina is famous at Pet Central for wearing fun scrub tops for every holiday.
Quote to know Tina by: “When babies take their first step and then fall on their bottoms, we praise the first step. We don’t criticize their fall… As adults we could learn a lesson here… we spend more time criticizing our faults and not enough time applauding our small steps.”
Katie
Practice Manager
Katie joined Pet Central Animal Hospital as a technician in July 2020, amidst the pandemic, and quickly advanced to Practice Manager in July 2022. She holds a degree in Instrumental Music Education from Minnesota State University Moorhead, but her deep-seated passion for animals led her to veterinary medicine. Katie’s favorite aspect of working at Pet Central Animal Hospital is “the collective love we have for our patients,” which underscores the compassionate environment of the clinic. Her pet family includes Gadget the Doberman, Letty the Pit Bull (rescued from Pet Central), Lorraine the calico cat, Gremlin the Torti cat, and PB&J, a one-eyed “raccoon” Tabby. Outside of work, Katie enjoys disc golf with her fiancé, cooking, and relaxing at home watching TV.
Quote to know Katie by: “Those who teach the most about humanity aren’t always human.”
Veterinary Technicians at Pet Central Animal Hospital
Breanna, CVT
Certified Veterinary Technician
Breanna has been an exceptional Certified Veterinary Technician at Pet Central Animal Hospital since October 2015. Raised in Blaine, Minnesota, she graduated from the Veterinary Technician program at Minnesota School of Business in 2013. Prior to joining Pet Central, Breanna completed a two-year internship at Skyline Veterinary Hospital in Fridley. In her personal time, Breanna cherishes spending time with her children and her five pets: cats Layla, Felix, and Dottie, and dogs Luna and Ruby.
Favorite Quote : “I wish I was a little kid again, skinned knees are easier to fix than a broken heart.”
Meggan, CVT
Certified Veterinary Technician
Meggan playfully refers to herself as the “world’s okayest vet tech,” but her skills and dedication at Pet Central Animal Hospital are far beyond “okay.” She joined our team in 2016 after earning her Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology from Minnesota School of Business in 2013. Meggan has also been a dedicated volunteer with Safe Hands Rescue since 2009, assisting with animal intake and fostering. Growing up in the suburbs and spending summers on a family dairy farm, Meggan has worked with animals since 2005. She values the variety at Pet Central, stating, “No two days are the same here; variety is the spice of life.” Meggan enjoys nature walks, collecting interesting objects, and caring for her special needs dogs, including Eddie, a Yorkie mix, Daffodil, a toothless Chihuahua, and Owen, a paralyzed Poodle mix. Music is another passion, and she is known for her entertaining lip-sync performances in the treatment area of Pet Central Animal Hospital.
Quote to know Meggan by: “Know what I’m sayin’?” -Meggan
Leighton, VT
Veterinary Technician
Leighton first joined Pet Central Animal Hospital in January 2018. After a brief period away, her strong connection to the Pet Central family brought her back in July 2022, much to our delight. She attended Argosy University for her Veterinary Technician degree. Before Pet Central, Leighton volunteered as a kennel assistant and worked at another veterinary clinic, gaining valuable experience in animal care. She cherishes the close-knit atmosphere at Pet Central, saying, “We’re a family and we stick together.” In her free time, Leighton enjoys playing with her Boston Terrier, Princess Daisy Mae Flowers (Daisy Mae for short), and her Cane Corso, Hennessy. She also enjoys spending time with friends, playing video games, and reading.
Quote to know Leighton by: “Absolutely.” and “I work hard so my dog can have a better life.”
Chelsea, VT
Veterinary Technician
Chelsea has appreciated the strong team dynamics and family-like environment at Pet Central Animal Hospital since she started in May 2018. Her beloved pets include Whisper, a medium-haired cat, and Brutus, a tailless short-hair cat, as well as Lola, a miniature pincher/rat terrier mix dog. Chelsea is creatively inclined, enjoying writing fiction in her spare time. Notably, she once wrote, directed, and starred in a student-led play at Spring Lake Park High School focused on verbal abuse awareness, which has been used in schools as far away as the US Virgin Islands.
Quote to know Chelsea by: “Hope is born where certainty dies.”- C.E. Chilson
Bridget, VT
Veterinary Technician
Bridget became part of Pet Central Animal Hospital just before the pandemic in 2020 and has been a highly valued team member ever since. She holds a degree in Medical Lab Science from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and has prior experience in retail and animal shelter work. Bridget values the hardworking and supportive team at Pet Central, stating they make “it a joy to come to work.” She also enjoys “getting to snuggle all the animals!” In her time off, Bridget enjoys reading, relaxing under a blanket, and hiking with her dogs Winston and Togo.
Quote to know Bridget by: “Anything worth dying for is certainly worth living for” -Joseph Heller (Catch 22)
Heather, VT
Veterinary Technician
Heather joined Pet Central Animal Hospital in April 2020 with a strong ambition to advance in animal medicine. She is currently pursuing a degree in Animal Science with a Pre-Vet focus, aiming to attend veterinary school and eventually become a veterinarian, ideally remaining at Pet Central Animal Hospital. Heather has a Golden Retriever named Charlie and a cat named Benjamin, with whom she enjoys cuddling and watching Netflix. Her favorite movies include The Heat, Pitch Perfect, and The Bodyguard.
Quote to know Heather by: ”Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always.”
Bridget “Jet”, VT
Veterinary Technician
Jet joined Pet Central Animal Hospital in December 2020, bringing experience from volunteering at an animal shelter and co-managing a doggy daycare. She is one of our impound specialists, known for naming stray animals before they find new homes. Jet appreciates the lively atmosphere and comedic colleagues at Pet Central, as well as the many Pit Bulls they care for. Outside of work, Jet enjoys watching “Fantastic Mr. Fox,” bonfires, spending time outdoors, and interacting with stray cats. She has two pets: Mumu the cat and Gilbert the pit bull.
Quote to know Jet by: “We be positive in here.” -Dr. Nelson
Haley, VT
Veterinary Technician
Haley has been a valued Veterinary Technician at Pet Central Animal Hospital since 2021. She attended St. Paul College and has seven years of experience in veterinary and kennel roles, driven by her lifelong passion for animals. Haley’s favorite aspect of Pet Central is the friendly and collaborative environment, “Everyone is friendly and we work together like a family.” She enjoys collecting Studio Ghibli and Tim Burton movies, hiking, and playing video games. Haley’s extensive pet family includes cats Artemis, Aesop, and Jupiter; dogs Jax and Athena; ferret Xena; and geckos Zira and Venus.
Melissa “Mel”, VT
Veterinary Technician
Mel joined Pet Central Animal Hospital in 2021 as a Veterinary Technician and is a cheerful and caring presence. She is currently training to become an EMT and firefighter, adding to her skills in patient care and emergency response. A Minnesota native, Mel has worked in various roles, including at a pet store, Papa Johns, and the State Fair. She values the “amazing team” at Pet Central, noting, “Everyone wants to help each other. We have a lot of fun.” In her spare time, Mel enjoys reading, drawing, gaming, hiking, and sewing. Her pets include Nova the dog, Saturn the gecko, and Cider the tarantula.
Quote to know Mel by: “I have no idea what I’m going to do tomorrow” “How exciting!”
Maureen, VT
Veterinary Technician
Maureen started at Pet Central Animal Hospital as an intern and decided to stay due to the welcoming atmosphere. She is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science with a minor in Marine Biology at the University of Minnesota. Prior to joining Pet Central, she worked as a receptionist at the U of M Veterinary Medical Center. Her career goal is to work in zoo animal nutrition. Maureen appreciates Pet Central because “everyone is super friendly and willing to help me learn.” She enjoys reading and playing video games with family and friends. Her pet family includes multiple cats at home and in Green Bay, WI: Hades, Tiny Cat, Kanye, Psycho, Chester, Thalia, and Lavender.
Quote to know Maureen by: “If you don’t put effort in you are bound to fail” -Maureen’s dad
Katie, VT
Veterinary Technician
Katie joined Pet Central Animal Hospital in 2022 and has been a wonderful addition to our team. She previously worked at a pet store, caring for a wide variety of animals. Growing up in Crystal, MN, Katie attended North Hennepin College. She finds joy in the diversity of animals she sees at Pet Central and values her “family” of coworkers. Outside of work, Katie cares for her extensive pet family, including ferrets RJ & El, bearded dragons Stan, Taz, & Dova, leopard geckos Geo, Benji, & Ziggy, guinea pigs Teddy & Lilly, and an African bullfrog named Chett. She also enjoys playing video games in her free time.
Kianna, VT
Veterinary Technician
Kianna joined Pet Central Animal Hospital in 2022, starting as a kennel assistant and quickly advancing to a technician role. She is currently a Pre-Vet student at the University of Minnesota. Kianna has prior experience working at an animal shelter and fostering dogs, having fostered ten dogs through United Doberman Rescue. She is enthusiastic about working with animals and learning at Pet Central. Kianna enjoys Harry Potter and Marvel movies and spending time with her German Shepard Kota and kitten Mouse.
Quote to know Kianna by: “Everything happens for a reason.”
Sienna, VT
Veterinary Technician
Sienna joined Pet Central Animal Hospital in mid-2023, quickly impressing the team. From Shoreview, she is pursuing her CVT through Penn Foster. Sienna volunteered at shelters as a child and knew veterinary medicine was her calling. After working at another clinic and briefly trying human medicine, she happily returned to animal care at Pet Central. She chose Pet Central because of “The people are awesome to work with,” and her love for “all of the furry critters!” Sienna enjoys photography, epoxy art, hiking, traveling, and spending time with her three cats: Luna, Sherlock, and Enola.
Quote to know Sienna by: “Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine.” -Anthony J. D’Angelo
Kennel Staff at Pet Central Animal Hospital
Reagan, Kennel Attendant
Reagan joined Pet Central Animal Hospital in late 2022, marking her first role in veterinary medicine. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Animal Sciences at the University of Minnesota, aspiring to become a veterinarian. Reagan appreciates the kindness and welcoming atmosphere at Pet Central and enjoys caring for all the animals. A Minnesota native, she enjoys walking her dog Hardy, cooking, baking, and watching TV.
Quote to know Reagan by: “Live what you love.”
Aamani, Kennel Attendant
Aamani joined Pet Central Animal Hospital in early 2023 as a Kennel Attendant and is expanding her skills into technician roles. This is her introduction to the veterinary field, and she will begin Pre-Vet studies at Augsburg College. Aamani’s dream is to practice veterinary medicine in India, where her family is from. Despite this being her first clinic job, she has experience at a doggy daycare and has volunteered with animals since childhood. She values sharing her passion with the team at Pet Central. In her free time, Aamani enjoys painting, reading, movies, and spending time with her Pit Bull, Lexi.
Quote to know Aamani by: “One day, a long time from now, when you approach the rainbow bridge, I hope they all come to you to say ‘Hello’.”
Receptionists at Pet Central Animal Hospital
Toni
Toni has been a valued receptionist at Pet Central Animal Hospital since September 2004. Prior to Pet Central, Toni grew up in Brooklyn Park, graduated from Hennepin Technical College, and worked in kennels at a local animal hospital. She enjoys murder mysteries, Mark Wahlberg movies, and Minneapolis-born musician Prince, having even appeared in one of his music videos! Toni has two cats, Twist and Jack.
Quote to know Toni by: “I’m leavin’ ya, Martha.”
Nichola
Nichola is a front desk receptionist at Pet Central Animal Hospital and also manages our Instagram and social media. Her artistic talents extend to tattoo shops she co-owns with her husband. Nichola has over 15 years of veterinary experience from living across the US, from Virginia to Las Vegas. She has a special fondness for senior animals, volunteers at spay and neuter clinics, and raises butterflies and plants at home.
Quote to know Nichola by: “Quiet people have the loudest minds.” -Stephen King
Alice
Alice joined Pet Central Animal Hospital in September 2020 as a veterinary technician but found her niche at the reception desk. She has eight years of customer service experience, including three at Petco. Alice enjoys building relationships with clients and working in her childhood neighborhood of NE Minneapolis. In her free time, she enjoys nature, hiking, painting, and watching Trailer Park Boys or Harry Potter movies. Alice’s diverse pet family includes a blue-tongued skink, ball python, green cheek conure, and cat.
Quote to know Alice by: “Be ready so you don’t have to get ready.”
Aubreanna
Aubreanna joined Pet Central Animal Hospital in mid-2023 as a receptionist, quickly becoming a key team member. With two years of experience at another clinic and seven years in accounting, her passion for animal care motivated her career change. Aubreanna enjoys helping pet owners at Pet Central and is happy to work in her native NE Minneapolis. She enjoys bubble wrap and loves her Great Dane, Aspen.
Groomers at Pet Central Animal Hospital
Oksanna
Oksanna has been a valued member of Pet Central Animal Hospital since May 2016, contributing in roles as groomer, technician, and receptionist. She trained in grooming at Pucci Pet Career Studios. Oksanna is a dedicated pet parent to five dogs and five cats. She also enjoys drag racing, Disney movies (especially Stitch), and the Twilight and Maze Runner series.
Favorite Quote: “Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.”
Ava
Ava joined Pet Central Animal Hospital in 2022 as a certified groomer with five years of prior experience. From Rosemount, MN, she attended University of North Dakota before finding her passion in animal grooming. Ava enjoys helping pets look and feel their best and practices creative dog grooming. Her pet family includes dogs Ollie and Nena, cats Mofongo and Victor, and a fish and conure.
Quote to know Ava by: “Love yourself first and everything else falls into line.” -Lucille Ball
Lydia
Pet Central’s Mascot & Greeter
Lydia, Pet Central Animal Hospital’s African Grey Parrot, is our official greeter and resident noisemaker. Celebrating her 20th birthday, Lydia enthusiastically welcomes patients in the lobby. While she takes her greeter duties seriously, Lydia is also known to occasionally be in “time out” in the breakroom or relaxing on her perch, playfully chewing paper.
African grey parrots have a long history as pets, dating back thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians and Romans valued these intelligent birds.
Favorite quote: “Want a peanut?”
