Our Veterinarians
Dr. Mackenzie Hellert
Dr. Hellert grew up on her family’s farm right here in Dubuque, Iowa, where her love for animals began long before veterinary school. She graduated from the Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine in 2011 and has since gained extensive experience in soft-tissue surgery, internal medicine, emergency care, and general practice.
In 2021, Dr. Hellert and her husband, Brett, purchased PetMed Animal Health Center, and in 2024 they proudly expanded their vision by acquiring Key West Animal Clinic and merging the two practices to create PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic—a truly local, family-owned clinic. Together with their incredible team, they’ve built a practice where everyone is treated like family—both two-legged and four-legged alike.
At home on the family farm, Dr. Hellert and Brett share life with two spoiled dogs, Martin and Thaddeus, and a few equally pampered horses. In her free time, she helps care for her family’s flock of Jacob sheep, llamas, and chickens, along with a Giant Flemish rabbit named Adeli. She also enjoys gardening, riding and driving her horses, and traveling—having worked and explored from Alaska to Arizona to Florida and plenty of places in between.
Dr. Naomi Tigges
Dr. Tigges was born and raised in the Dubuque area and has always had a passion for caring for animals. She graduated from the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2009 and joined our veterinary team in 2022.
At home, Dr. Tigges is a proud mom to two wonderful children, Ella and Clark, along with two cats and a guinea pig.
Dr. Tigges is a compassionate veterinarian that believes the heart of veterinary medicine lies in the powerful bond between people and their pets. She is dedicated to strengthening that special bond with a focus on client education, preventive medicine, and empathetic care. She strives to enhance both animal health and the quality of life for pet owners.
Her professional interests include preventive medicine, internal medicine, and end of life issues with a focus on dogs, cats, and small mammals. She is committed to fostering lifelong relationships built on compassion, understanding, and respect.
When she’s not in the clinic, Dr. Tigges enjoys cross-stitching and listening to music as ways to relax and unwind.
Dr. Kim Bergfeld
Dr. Kim Bergfeld has practiced veterinary medicine for over 34 years. Her vet career has included almost 20 years of mixed animal medicine and was a partner at Rolling Hills Veterinary Services. Dr. Kim has been owner of Key West Animal Clinic since 1999 and solo owner since 2010. Dr. Hellert purchased Key West Animal Clinic in December 2024 from Dr. Kim and Dr. Kim continues with her love of the profession and compassionate care under PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic.
Dr. Kim and her husband, Bernie, live on a beautiful farm in Bernard, IA, where they enjoy the peace and rhythm of country life. They have 2 children, Ryan and Kelly. When she’s not caring for patients, Dr. Kim enjoys spending time with family and close friends, often gathering for relaxed get-togethers filled with laughter and good company.
Life on the farm is never dull- she stays busy with her beloved animals, including her beagle, Lilly, and several barn cats: Fluffy, Chong, Gertie, and Frankie.
Technical Team
Nikki
Nikki has been an essential part of our team since 2004, starting her journey with the original Key West Animal Clinic long before it became PetMed of Key West. With over 20 years of experience, Nikki knows our patients and clients inside and out — she’s seen generations of pets grow up under her care!
Known for her calm, compassionate presence and incredible technical skill, Nikki keeps our clinic running smoothly and our patients comfortable.
When she’s not at the clinic, Nikki enjoys spending time with her husband, Jay, and their two kids, Charlie and Kaitlyn. Their beagle, Boone, keeps everyone entertained and on their toes! Outside of veterinary life, Nikki loves music— you can often find her at live shows with family and friends.
We’re so grateful for Nikki’s dedication, kindness, and the heart she brings to PetMed every single day.
Molly
Molly joined the PetMed of Key West team in 2020 and quickly became an essential part of our medical crew. With a Bachelor of Science in Biology (emphasis in Zoology), she brings both knowledge and heart to every patient she cares for.
Molly has been working in the animal care field since 2016 and has a special talent for connecting with pets of all personalities — from the most outgoing pups to the shyest kitties. Her calm, confident approach helps make every visit a positive one.
At home, Molly’s own furry family keeps her busy and happy — she shares her life with four dogs (Pancake, Miska, Wilhelmina, and Indiana) and three cats (Nugget, Stormy, and Chimmy).
Outside the clinic, you’ll often find Molly hiking with her husband and dogs, running, riding horses, or competing in agility with her corgi, Wilhelmina.
We’re so grateful for Molly’s expertise, teamwork, and dedication — she helps make PetMed the caring, capable clinic our patients deserve.
Ethan
Ethan joined the PetMed of Key West team in 2025 after graduating from St. Ambrose University with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. A lifelong animal lover and hard worker, Ethan is now applying to veterinary schools with the goal of becoming a veterinarian in the near future.
During his time at St. Ambrose, Ethan was a collegiate wrestler for four years, balancing academics and athletics with dedication and grit — qualities he now brings to his work in the clinic every day.
A Western Dubuque High School graduate, Ethan was a three-sport athlete and graduated with honors. He currently lives just outside of Dubuque and enjoys making his own hot sauce, working out, and cheering on his cousins at their sporting events.
We’re thrilled to have Ethan on the PetMed team — his energy, enthusiasm, and drive make him an incredible addition to our crew!
Denise
Originally from Texas, Denise brings a little southern charm (and the occasional drawl!) to the PetMed of Key West team. A proud Texan through and through, she’s known for her big heart, easy laugh, and her impressive armadillo collection!
At home, Denise’s crew keeps life lively — she shares her days her partner Randy, three dogs (Oakley, Piper, and Rook), two cats (Jimithy and Bug), and her three sons: Tyler who serves in the army, Luke who lives in Des Moines, and youngest Zach who lives at home.
When she’s not caring for patients at the clinic, you’ll find Denise enjoying the outdoors — kayaking, riding her Can-Am Spyder, or cheering on her favorite team (Go Aggies!).
We love the warmth, humor, and Texas spirit Denise brings to our PetMed family every day!
Reception Team
Faith
Faith joined the PetMed of Key West team in May 2025 and quickly became a valued part of both our reception and technical teams. A Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) with four years of experience, Faith brings knowledge, compassion, and flexibility to every role she takes on — whether she’s assisting clients at the front desk or helping care for patients in the treatment area.
At home, Faith’s feline family — Azazel, Cookie, and Leviathan — keep life entertaining and full of personality.
Outside the clinic, Faith enjoys crocheting (she’s even made several team members their own crocheted spirit animals!), watching true crime shows, and spending time with her boyfriend.
We’re so lucky to have Faith’s skill, creativity, and upbeat energy as part of the PetMed family!
Tina
Tina has been greeting clients with a friendly smile and helping keep our front desk running smoothly since 2021. As one of the first faces you see when visiting PetMed of Key West, Tina’s warmth, patience, and kindness help make every visit feel a little more like home.
Outside of the clinic, Tina loves spending time with her husband, CJ, their three kids, and four grandchildren — family time is truly her favorite way to spend the day! Their yorkie, Casey, keeps things lively and adds plenty of personality to the mix.
When she’s not with family, Tina enjoys simply relaxing and recharging — something well-earned after keeping our busy clinic organized and welcoming all week long!
We’re so grateful for Tina’s calm, caring presence and the heart she brings to our team every day.