Our Staff

Dr. Saldivia, owner of the Animal Hospital of Kentwood, has been serving the community and its pets for more than 35 years. Her passion for veterinary medicine began early—at just six years old, she knew she wanted to become a veterinarian. Since achieving that dream at Michigan State University, she has dedicated her career to expanding her knowledge and providing exceptional care. She has pursued additional studies in acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, as well as herbal and food therapies, giving her patients well-rounded treatment options.

For Dr. Saldivia, what makes each day meaningful is the variety. No two days are ever the same, and every patient brings a new story and new opportunities to make a difference. She believes the strength of the Animal Hospital of Kentwood lies in its teamwork. Together, the staff works to provide not only excellent medical care but also a personalized experience tailored to each pet and family.

At home, she shares life with her husband and their mischievous cat, Vinny, affectionately nicknamed “El Chapo” for his escape-artist tendencies. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren, relaxing at her cottage, being out on the lake, or horseback riding. Dr. Saldivia often reminds pet owners that prevention is far more affordable than treatment and encourages puppy parents to skip the puppy pads—true success comes from consistent trips outdoors.

Dr. Saldivia

Dr. Emig has been part of our team for seven years, fulfilling her lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian. From announcing her ambition at kindergarten graduation to earning a DVM from Michigan State University, her passion for animal care has always been clear.

What Dr. Emig loves most about her work is helping pet owners strengthen their bonds with their pets. She values being part of a close-knit team that makes even challenging days enjoyable. Dr. Emig also treasures the long-term relationships she’s built with the clinic’s devoted clients.

At home, Dr. Emig shares her life with her family and their sweet cat, Petty, who loves cuddles and chasing toys. In her free time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and baking. Dr. Emig encourages all pet parents to prioritize dental care early on for their pets’ long-term health.

Dr. Emig

Dr. Smith

Dr. Smith is a 2007 graduate of Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.  She has been caring for pets in the greater Grand Rapids community since 2008, and joined the team at the Animal Hospital of Kentwood in February 2026. She is looking forward to meeting all of you and your pets!

Dr. Smith has a passion for preventive medicine; her best advice for keeping your pets healthy for a long life is to maintain them at ideal body condition and to keep up on their oral care. She enjoys working with pet owners to problem-solve how to do this, especially in light of the fact many pets are not on-board with these recommendations and sometimes require creative solutions. Dr. Smith also has a particular interest in feline medicine and the unique needs of cats – she has yet to meet a cat she does not like, even the so-called “spicy” ones!

Dr. Smith lives in Cedar Springs with her husband and their 6 cats and 3 miniature dachshunds. While she would love to blame the 6 cats on the fact that she and her husband both work in vet med, she does have to admit to “Crazy Cat Lady” tendencies. She is an avid gardener, enjoys exploring the outdoors and wildlife watching, and taking naps with the dogs.

Jaci - Client Relations

Jaci has been part of the Animal Hospital of Kentwood family since 1994, bringing over 30 years of friendly service. She’s one of the familiar faces you'll see at the front desk every week.

Jaci enjoys photography and gardening, and ensures every patient is thoroughly taken care of.

Tyler - Veterinary Assistant 

Tyler has been with the Animal Hospital of Kentwood for two years, bringing compassion, dedication, and a deep love for animals to every interaction. He’s committed to providing thoughtful care to both pets and their people.

Outside of work, Tyler enjoys exploring nature with his beloved dogs, Pete and Winston, and continues to grow his knowledge through ongoing animal science education.

Vicky - Building Attendant

Bio coming soon!

Mary Jo - Veterinary Assistant

Mary Jo has been a dedicated Veterinary Assistant at the Animal Hospital of Kentwood for 25 years. Her passion for animals began in childhood, and she knew early on that she wanted a career working with them. Over the years, she has gained extensive hands-on training, becoming a friendly and trusted member of our team. She loves meeting new pets and supporting their healthcare while building lasting client relationships. At home, she enjoys life with two dogs, three cats, and a gecko.

In her free time, Mary Jo loves gardening, reading, and spending time outdoors with her family.

Lucy - Client Relations

Lucy has been part of the Client Relations team for nearly two years. She found her way into veterinary medicine unexpectedly and quickly fell in love with the work. She enjoys supporting clients and their pets alongside a compassionate team.

At home, she spends time with her macaw, Chica, two dogs, Buddy and Sawyer, and her wonderful grandkids.

Michelle - Client Relations

Michelle has been part of our Client Relations team for one year, bringing compassion, dedication, and a Cat Friendly certification to her role. Her veterinary journey began in Spain, where she volunteered at a naval base. She loves working with her caring team and helping clients through every step of their pet’s care.

At home, she shares life with her dog, two cats, and a rabbit, and enjoys reading, camping, being outdoors, and spending time with family.

Pam - Client Relations

Pam has been a part of the Animal Hospital of Kentwood on & off for over 11 years. She first joined the team in 2011 and worked with us until 2021, returning again in 2025. From the moment she found the clinic, she knew it would be a meaningful and fun place to be. She truly values the relationships that develop between pets, their families, and the team. Her coworkers feel like family, and that connection is one of her favorite parts of the job.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, gardening, crafting and playing piano. She hopes to inform clients on how important routine bloodwork panels are - they provide vital insight into a pet's health and help us give them the best care possible!

Holly - Licensed Veterinary Technician

Bio coming soon!

Bri - Veterinary Technician

Bri has been a valued member of our team for one year. Her passion for animals started when volunteering in a shelter, she attended Baker College to pursue her degree in veterinary technology. What makes the hospital feel like home is the people. The team has been more than just coworkers- they're a family. One thing Bri regularly educates owners on is the care of pocket pets like rabbits!

Outside of work, Bri shares her home with a lively bunch of animals: 1 dog, 3 cats and 2 rabbits. She loves spending time outdoors and is celebrating her wedding in December!

Lupe - Veterinary Assistant

With eight years in veterinary medicine, Lupe brings experience, compassion, and a deep love for animals to her role as a Veterinary Assistant. She values client education and believes in the power of preventative care. At home, she enjoys time with her yellow Lab, Bella.

Outside of work, Lupe loves being a mom, reading, and listening to podcasts. She is exceptionally fluent in the Spanish language.

Scott - Practice Manager

With nine years of experience, Scott has helped build a team-focused environment rooted in compassion, connection, and quality care. He and his wife share their home with six cats and three miniature dachshunds, who inspire his commitment to every patient.

Outside the clinic, he enjoys woodworking and nature, recharging so he can support our team and the pets we serve.