Dr. Brian McAllister
DVM
Dr Brian McAllister grew up in Birmingham AL and graduated from Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2005. His first job as a Veterinarian was here at Animal Kindness! After working at a few other hospitals in town, Dr. Brian and his wife Jen purchased Animal Kindness from Dr. Holt in March 2019.
Dr. McAllister enjoys seeing many types of pets to include dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, and other pocket pets. He performs many surgical procedures but has a fondness for foreign-body removal. Pets seem to ingest the craziest things! During his career, Dr McAllister spent 5 years specializing in feline care. Some call him the cat whisperer. He has a passion for providing the calmest environment possible for all pets and has taught the entire staff more gentle ways of handling animals. Through his guidance, Animal Kindness has become a “no scruff” hospital for cats. He is also very passionate about “bringing the kindness back to medicine”. Your pets will be treated like they are a member of his family.
Outside of work, Dr. Brian shares his life with his wife Jen and their awesome blended family. The kiddos include Luci, Dani, Campbell & Akeila. Their house is also shared with their dogs Knight, Roxie, Chica, and Havok and cats Rocket, Mama Cat (Spookay), Siryn, and Emma Frost.
Fun facts: Die-hard Alabama Fan. Loves the Vegas Golden Knights and recently had to give up his love for the Redskins when they failed to draft Tua Tagovaiola. His favorite band is Weezer. Anything Marvel.
Dr. Tracy Wachbrit
DVM
Dr. Tracy Wachbrit grew up in Los Angeles, CA and graduated from the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine in 2020. She always had an interest in science and physiology as a child, routinely participating in science fairs and taking elective science courses long before college. Like many, her love for animals originated young as she grew up surrounded by cats, fish, frogs, and lizards. As a teenager, Dr. Wachbrit performed in dressage shows and eventually rode and trained Thoroughbred racehorses while pursuing her first college degree in Equine Science.
Though she began her college career with an interest in horses, Dr. Wachbrit found during vet school that she loved working on a variety of species, including but not limited to cats, dogs, reptiles, fish, goats, horses, and small “pocket pet” mammals. Her areas of interest include neurology, cardiology, virology, exotic animal medicine, and client education.
In her free time, Dr. Wachbrit enjoys horseback riding, archery, video games, comics, spending time with friends and family, and relaxing at home. She is the willing servant to her two cats Raven and Ember, as well as her two snakes Nebu (corn snake) and Artemis (ball python).
Dr. Vivian Yi
DVM
Dr. Vivian Yi is a Southern California native who graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2023. At Ross University, she was inducted into the honor society of veterinary medicine, Phi Zeta Alpha Zeta Chapter. Her clinical rotations were completed at Colorado State University, where she also became Certified in Advanced Life Support.
Prior to veterinary school, Dr. Yi pursued further education in veterinary care after earning a B.A. in Sociology from the University of California, Los Angeles. Starting as a veterinary assistant in a local general practice, Dr. Yi gained valuable experience before becoming a veterinary technician at an emergency and specialty center. There, she excelled as an intensive care unit and emergency triage nurse.
Driven by her desire to do more for animals, Dr. Yi fulfilled her childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian. Her special interests include surgery, diagnostic imaging, anesthesia & analgesia, and clinical pathology.
In her free time, Dr. Yi enjoys swimming, a passion cultivated as a competitive swimmer during her youth. She also loves hiking, going to Disneyland with her sisters and trying new foods with her fiancé.
Jen
Practice Manager/ Owner
Hi! My name is Jen and I was born and raised in Minneapolis, MN. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Genetics and Cell Biology from the University of MN and a Masters of Forensic Science degree in Forensic Molecular Biology from George Washington University. I spent 15 years as a Forensic Scientist specializing in DNA testing before transitioning into my role as the Practice Manager.
I have a 15 year-old son named Campbell who is an amazing dancer. In 2016 I adopted a 15-year-old girl, Akeila (now 22), who was an incredible gymnast and is currently studying at Wichita State University to be a Police Officer. In 2017 I met Dr. Brian McAllister and his two daughters also became a huge part of my world. Dani is 12 and obsessed with cats and wants to be a Veterinarian someday like her dad. Finally, Luci is 9 and recently started gymnastics and is loving it. I love our wonderfully blended family! Brian and I also have 4 dogs (Knight, Roxie, Havok, and Chica) and 4 cats (Mama Cat (Spookay), Rocket, Siryn, and Emma Frost).
We purchased Animal Kindness from Dr. Holt in March 2019 and have really enjoyed owning the hospital and making it our own! We have the best clients and pets. We strive each day to treat each animal, their owners and each other with kindness and compassion. We want you to feel like a part of our family when you come to Animal Kindness.
When I’m not working at the hospital I’m often volunteering through Junior League of Las Vegas, driving the kids to all of their activities, working on my Veterinary Technician Program through Penn Foster, boating, reading or enjoying delicious food and wine with friends.
Courtney
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Hi Everyone! My name is Courtney and I’m a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) here at Animal Kindness. I joined the team as a part timer in Spring of 2021 and accepted an “official” full time position in March of 2023! I am a Native Las Vegan… Born and Raised! I was a “late bloomer” who didn’t enter the veterinary field as an assistant until January 2018 (at almost 30 years old!). I had successfully helped open and run the first all Vegan (GF and Allergy Friendly) bakery in the entire Las Vegas Valley and while I enjoyed it immensely… it didn’t set my soul on fire. I had worked as a kennel attendant many years earlier and realized THAT was where I wanted to go with the rest of my life. I graduated from PIMA Medical Institute with an Associate of Science in Veterinary Technology in June of 2020 and passed my Veterinary Technician National Exam in the height of the Covid Pandemic in December 2020. The rest really has been history…
In my spare time, I love traveling and spending time with my boyfriend Kevin and our two fur babies, Smudge and Piglet. Smudge is a long haired miniature dachshund we brought back from TN at just 10 weeks old last year! Piglet is a Chihuahua Terrier Mix that found himself needing a home shortly after he turned 4 months old due to multiple fractures in his left front paw. Smudge was just a month younger and needed a friend…so here we are, a year later and stronger than ever. In addition to the boys, I have an 11 year old Chihuahua Min Pin named Brownie. She is a Princess who was failed by three other families before she came to reign in [and run] my home in January of 2019 at 7 years old. I look forward to meeting all of your four legged fur children and assisting you in providing them with the best care possible… See you soon!
Heather
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Hey There! I’m Heather and I’m a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT). I’m new to the Animal Kindness family and loving it! I was born and raised in Fresno, CA. I have always had a love for animals and often snuck them into my grandparents home. I was in FFA (Future Farmers of America) in high school and raised and showed pigs and cattle at the county fair all 4 years.
I graduated from San Joaquin Valley College in Fresno in 2015 and received my Associates Degree in Animal Science. In 2016 I took my National Exam and became an LVT. I moved to Vegas in 2018 and have never looked back! When I’m not at work, I’m spending time with my wife and our two boys. We also have a siamese cat named Katniss. I enjoy swimming and doing crafts. I’ve been crocheting since I was 5 and I just started making my own body soap! What I love most about working with animals is seeing the transformation after we have made them feel better and helping their owners.
Vanessa
Veterinary Technician In Training
Hello! My name is Vanessa and I am an extern turned Veterinary Assistant. I have lived in Las Vegas since I was 6 years old. As a child, I was always interested in animal medicine, so I made it my goal to become a Veterinarian. In June of 2021, I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences at Nevada State College. May of 2022 I will receive my vet assistant certificate from PIMA and eventually get my Veterinary Technician License. I am excited to work my way up through the field and I hope to become an amazing Veterinarian, much like the ones here at AKVH!
Outside of being a vet assistant, I enjoy taking care of my garden, bird watching, and hanging out with my pets. I grow my own vegetables like collard greens, tomatoes, and strawberries. I like growing various kinds of vegetables that I can feed to my bearded dragons, Amon and McWobbles. I thoroughly enjoy going out hiking and looking for interesting birds in the area. My go-to bird watching spot is at the Henderson Bird Preserve, and my favorite native bird is called the Verdin. As previously stated before, I own two bearded dragons, Amon and McWobbles, who are both fancy bearded dragons. I also have 3 dogs, Cookie my chiweenie, Muffin my Maltese, and Biscuit my loveable terrier thing.
Mayra
Veterinary Assistant
Hello! I’m a Veterinary Assistant and Kennel Technician. I started working at Animal Kindness in October 2017. I attended Pima Medical Institute and received my degree in Veterinary Assisting. I did my externship at Animal Kindness and was hired as a full time employee!
When I was younger, I always wanted to be a Veterinarian. Later I realized Veterinary Assistant was the perfect fit for me. My cousin inspired me to join the VA program at Pima Medical Institute. She would tell me stories that solidified my passion to work with pets. Now that I’m in the field I couldn’t see myself working anywhere else! I’ve also met amazing people and unique pets through this field. You never know how the day will go once you walk into work and I find that pretty exciting.
I currently have 3 pets. My oldest, Minnie (7, Shepherd mix) was adopted from the Animal Foundation and she’s been running the house ever since. My middle baby, Mickey, (5, German Shepherd) we got as a puppy and he’s been a hassle ever since. I wouldn’t have it any other way. The latest addition to my furry family is my 5 year old Orange Tabby, Cookie! I saved her from being euthanized 2 years ago and she’s been such a positive change in my life. You could say we saved each other.
In my off time I enjoy listening to music and playing video games like Super Mario. I will travel the world to see a musical artist I love! My future plan includes becoming a licensed veterinary technician.
Gina
Veterinary Assistant/ Receptionist
Hello! My name is Gina. I work at Animal Kindness as a veterinary assistant and receptionist. I first came here in October of 2020 doing my externship and got hired on once my schooling was completed. I have 2 certificates for veterinary assisting. One from PIMA Medical Institute and the other from Animal Behavior College. I am currently enrolled in a Veterinary Technician program to earn my degree and become licensed.
My interest in animals started when I was a little girl going to the zoo every weekend. Then as I got older not wanting to copy anyone in my family with their profession. I started out having rabbits until I graduated high school and bought my own chocolate lab. She was the best decision I ever made and my hardest goodbye. Now, I have 4 Pitbulls and 1 Rottweiler.
My mission being in this field of work is to help educate as many pet owners as I can about every aspect of their pet’s journey, encompassing all ages and stages of their life. I’ve had a few different jobs and this one by far doesn’t feel like a job to me. It’s my passion and hobby. In my spare time you can find me chilling at home with my dogs, watching Animal Planet or National Geographic Wild channels.
Suzy
Veterinary Assistant/ Receptionist
Hi! My name is Suzy and I was born and raised here in Las Vegas. I joined the Animal Kindness team as a Veterinary Assistant but you will sometimes see me upfront as a receptionist. I attended PIMA Medical Institute and started my externship here in September of 2021 and was luckily hired.
Ever since I was young, I’ve had a fascination with these animals we share our home with. I knew from a very young age that this was the career I was going to pursue and have never regretted that decision. I love this job and every experience I’ve had so far. I promise as a Vet Assistant that I will go far beyond your expectations in the handling and treatment of your fur baby!
Jenni
Veterinary Assistant/ Receptionist
Hi, my name is Jenni! I am a Vet Assistant here at Animal Kindness. I graduated from PIMA Medical Institute. This is my first year working in this field and I am so excited to learn more and care for your fur babies (including the furless ones)! My favorite part of my job is how unique and special every pet is.
Growing up, I’ve always been around animals, whether it be my own pets or those of others. I have always dreamt that I would find a career that involves animals, so it truly is a dream come true to be here. I can’t wait to see where this career will take me!
Alejandra
Veterinary Assistant/ Receptionist
Hi my name is Alejandra, and I’m a Veterinary Assistant. I graduated from PIMA Medical Institute and did my externship here at Animal Kindness. I was lucky to be hired once I was done. I have really enjoyed working here because no two pets are alike! They are all different and they all have their own personalities. I have three dogs of my own that I’ve had since I was in 5th grade and I love them. Since being here I have learned a lot and experienced a lot too! I’m very happy to be a part of this team. Everyone here is so kind and helpful.
Lizeth
Receptionist
Hi! My name is Lizeth. I am the first to greet you when you and your pet(s) come into our facility. I joined the Animal Kindness family at the beginning of 2022 and thus far I love it here. My favorite part is the atmosphere we have, our hard-working team, and of course all the cute pets that come in. In all, we care for you and your pets!
A little bit about myself, I am still in school currently majoring in Human Health Science. My end goal is to work in the pharmaceutical industry once I graduate. In my free time, I enjoy going on runs and watching movies. I also have a poodle of my own, his name is Timo and he very much enjoys sunset walks and cuddles
Angel
Groomer
Hello, thanks for welcoming me to Animal Kindnesses Veterinary Hospital. My name is Angel, I am originally from Indianapolis, Indiana. My family moved here two years ago because we have always loved the southwest and Nevada was one of our favorite places to visit. I have two amazing human children and four silly fur kids. I started my grooming career over 20 years ago when I started at a veterinary hospital working in the grooming department, I was given the opportunity to go through the apprenticeship program they offered. From there I have worked with some of the best groomers across the country in both a learning and teaching role for future apprentices. My passion is making your pet feel good and look good. In my spare time I like to travel, paddle board, hike, camp, kickboxing, and collect plants! I look forward to meeting you and your fur babes!!
Chocolate Truffles
Office Cat
The name is Truffles. Chocolate Truffles. I keep the other clinic cats in check. You can always find Zoe and I in the break room when the staff is eating their lunch. My favorites are Cheetos, Mac N Cheese, and French Fries, but the Doctors are against it. >:-( I love to play dress up, especially around Halloween. My bat wings, pumpkin hat and collar are the coolest.
Nash
Office Cat
This office needed some spicing up so I decided to join the team. I am the youngest of the crew at 4 years old (N/M). I was adopted from the Hearts Alive Village cat cafe after being returned to them twice because I kept getting away from my adopters. In the beginning I was terrified of dogs, but now you’ll find me roaming ALL over the hospital and I even try to get into the cages with some dogs. I love to greet new visitors in the cat lobby and many apologies if I’m a bit aggressive when I meet them. I think everyone is my friend and wants to play rough! My hobbies include sunbathing, Parkour, hiding in the fridge and other weird spots, cruising the top of every cabinet I find, balancing on the tops of doors and posing for pictures. If you see me laying by the front door, please make sure I don’t escape. I kinda like it here.
Merlin
Office Cat
Old Man Merlin here! I was brought in off the streets of Vegas, 16 years old, not eating, emaciated, and in need of care. A sweet client of Animal Kindness brought me in to get fixed up and then the hospital decided to keep me. I give the BEST PURRRRRRSSSSS and make awesome biscuits. I’m such a good old man and now I don’t have any teeth but I’m eating like a champ! I’ve even started to gain weight. My favorite hobbies include helping Dr. Wachbrit write up her charts, climbing on her head, sitting in her chair, making the staff fawn over me, and showing the staff how bad I am at using the litter box. Hey, I lived outdoors for so long after all! I swear I’m working on it.
Zoe
Office Cat
In Memorial – Zoe crossed the Rainbow Bridge on 08/01/23.
Don’t let my diminutive nature fool you. I run this place! My best buddy is Chocolate Truffles. You’ll often see us roaming the halls together. My interests include sun bathing, chewing into prescription dog food so my owners can’t sell it, sleeping on the chair you’re about to use, cake, and Doritos.
Sahari
Office Cat
In Memorial – Sahari crossed the Rainbow Bridge on 03/22/22.
You may never see me up front because I’m always sleeping in the back. Lucky me though, I have my own designated exam room. You’ll enjoy my handsomeness during your appointment. You’re welcome. My favorite thing to do is sleep on printers. I love the warmth. Other hobbies include taunting dogs with my presence, sneezing on monitors and making the staff clean up my hair every day. *evil meow* Perhaps one day you’ll be lucky enough to find my fur attached to your invoice.
