{Expert Care by Board-Certified} Small Animal Veterinary Internists
Our {Founders}
Grace Clark
Dr. Clark graduated from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2013. She completed a small animal rotating medicine and surgery internship, and ultimately an internal medicine residency at BluePearl in Louisville, Kentucky, by 2017. She worked in the large referral specialty hospital for 8 years before co-founding VSP with Dr. Rizzo in 2019. She is now happy to be with VSP full-time. Her professional interests include infectious disease and gastro-urinary interventional procedures.
Dr. Clark’s family includes her husband Josh, their 5 year old daughter Alaina Grace, a black Lab named Tracker, a chocolate Lab named Maggie, an orange tabby cat named Maui, and a Betta fish named Bluey. Dr. Clark loves to be outdoors, whether she’s fishing, hiking, or having fun on the lake. She also enjoys going to movies and spending time with family.
Dr. Clark is also the Chief Operations Officer and a founder of Veterinary Oncology Partners (VOP), www.veterinaryoncologypartners.com which provides customized chemotherapy and consultation options to pets, allowing them to treated by their primary care veterinarian.
Scott Rizzo
Dr. Rizzo was born and raised in Louisville, KY and received a Bachelors of Accounting from the University of Kentucky. He went on to complete a masters in Anatomy and his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Colorado State University, and then completed a small animal internship and residency in small animal medicine at the University of Tennessee.
In 2009, he moved back to Louisville, KY and became co-owner of a large referral specialty veterinary hospital, where he worked as the medical director and staff internist. He then co-founded VSP with Dr. Clark in 2019.
Dr. Rizzo’s family includes his wife Danielle, his son Mason, and three dogs: Max, Buddy and Lola. Dr Rizzo is also CEO and Founder of Veterinary Oncology Partners (VOP) www.veterinaryoncologypartners.com, which is an online veterinary oncology company that also provides customized chemotherapy and consultation options so pets can be treated within their primary care veterinarian’s office.
Meet Our Client Service Representatives
Louisville, KY
Neva
Service Representative
Neva brings 6 years of veterinary medicine experience and a strong background in client care. She strives to make every visit feel positive and compassionate, even on difficult days. Outside of work, she enjoys quilting, reading, golfing, and spending time with her two pets.
Natalie
Service Representative
Natalie is one of our wonderful client service representatives and a proud dog mom to two pups - with plans for more. She loves Harry Potter, Disney, Formula One, and spends her free time at Disneyland or off on an adventure. If she were an animal, she’d happily be a dolphin so she could swim all day.
Laura
Service Representative
Laura has been in veterinary medicine since 2019 and draws inspiration from her pittie mix, Heffer. Originally from the Chicago area, she recently moved to Louisville after earning her English-Writing degree from Northern Illinois University. She enjoys hiking, writing, reading, and spending time with her cat, Mookie.
Ashliegh
Service Representative
Ashliegh has nearly 10 years of vet med experience and a background in human performance, nutrition, and marine biology. She’s lived and studied across the U.S. and Europe - and is even an ordained minister. She has four pets and loves adventuring with her dog, Xavier.
Austin
Service Representative
Veterinary medicine runs in Austin’s family, and he brings 10 years of experience to his role as a CSR. He excels at client communication and previously worked in veterinary rehab, one of his favorite jobs. A UofL graduate and former New York playwright, he hopes to return to writing and pursue his LVT someday - air sign energy included.
Presenting Our Administrative Leaders
Louisville, KY & Evansville, IN
At Veterinary Specialist Partners, our administrative staff is the backbone of daily operations across both locations and the driving force behind a seamless client and team experience. From practice management and scheduling to communications, HR support, and logistics, this dedicated group ensures that every department has what it needs to operate smoothly. They coordinate behind the scenes to support doctors, technicians, clients, and patients alike—managing processes, solving problems, and keeping our hospital organized and efficient. Their leadership ensures that every client, pet, and staff member have the support they need.
Stephanie, CVPM
Assistant Hospital Administrator
Stephanie has been working in veterinary medicine for 26 years, specializing in ER and Specialty care. She earned her Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) certification in 2015. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, which includes her three dogs, as well as reading, attending sporting events, and going to concerts.
Ashley, BS
Director of Clinical and Business Operations
Ashley has worked in veterinary medicine since 2012 and holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and Natural Resources with a concentration in Animal Science. She combines her clinical experience with a passion for systems design and team development. Ashley joined VSP in 2021 and plays a key role in shaping the hospital’s culture and operational excellence. Fun fact: she once worked as an elephant handler with Ringling Brothers and now enjoys life surrounded by her family, pets, plants, crystals, and all things a little bit witchy.
Chelsea, LVT
Director of Communications
Chelsea has over 10 years in vet med, with a background in emergency care and a growing love for internal medicine. She has two children, three dogs, and a cat, and still enjoys spending time on her family’s 145-acre farm. She describes herself as a golden retriever and loves continuing to learn and grow.
Alisha, LVMT
Hospital Administrator
Alisha has over 22 years in veterinary medicine and is an LVT with multiple additional certifications, including veterinary business, therapeutic nutrition, and project management. She was drawn to the field by her love of animals and learning, but says the people are her favorite part. A lifelong learner and avid reader, she loves working alongside passionate veterinary professionals.
Presenting Our DVMs
Louisville, KY
At Veterinary Specialist Partners, our Doctors of Veterinary Medicine (DVMs) are the foundation of your pet’s care. With advanced training and deep compassion, they bring expertise to every case, from urgent needs to specialized treatments. Our veterinarians work closely with you to explain diagnoses, outline treatment options, and answer your questions with clarity and care. Whether performing life-saving procedures or guiding long-term health decisions, our DVMs are committed to ensuring your pet receives the highest standard of medicine. Trust our exceptional doctors to deliver the knowledge, skill, and compassion your family deserves.
Dr. Zimmer
DVM
Check back soon to learn more about Dr. Zimmer!
Dr. Stello
Director of Urgent Care
Dr. Stello has 21 years in veterinary medicine and a DVM from the University of Georgia. She completed an internship in emergency, surgery, and general practice and has been practicing in Louisville for 17 years. Outside work, she enjoys boating, wine, and family time with her husband and three children.
Dr. Zelli
DVM
Dr. Zelli recently earned her DVM from Missouri State after completing her biology degree at Purdue. She has 8 years of veterinary experience and is now growing her skills as a veterinarian. She enjoys drawing, reading, crocheting, and spending time with friends and family.
Dr. Novak
DVM
Check back soon to learn more about Dr. Novak!
Dr. McGill
DVM
Dr. McGill is a Murray State alum who earned her DVM from Auburn University. She has a special interest in dermatology, senior pet care, and compassionate end-of-life support, helping families navigate every goodbye with empathy and grace. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her two boys, exploring new restaurants, and caring for her dogs—Agador and Mash—along with a backyard full of bees.
Say Hello to Our Clinical Staff
Louisville, KY
At Veterinary Specialist Partners, our highly skilled veterinary clinical staff is committed to providing exceptional care for your pets. Our team of licensed veterinary technicians and experienced assistants plays a critical role in ensuring every patient receives advanced medical attention and compassionate care. From assisting in surgeries to performing diagnostic tests, their expertise helps deliver the best outcomes for your pet’s health. Our team’s passion for veterinary care goes beyond technical skill—they are dedicated to making every pet’s experience as comfortable and positive as possible. When you trust our clinical team, you’re choosing the best in veterinary medicine.
Danielle, LVT
Clinical Supervisor
With over a decade in veterinary medicine, Danielle is passionate about emergency and critical care. She’s certified in zoology, veterinary technology, CPR, and animal care and control, and loves seeing critical patients recover. She shares her home with six dachshunds, four cats, two bearded dragons, and a sulcata tortoise.
Mica
Clinical Supervisor
Mica has worked in veterinary medicine for 16 years and joined VSP in 2021, primarily in internal and emergency medicine. They plan to earn their LVT and expand their specialty skills. A big-cat at heart, Mica can wiggle their ears, and once got a black eye from a giraffe!
Amy, LVT
IM Lead Technician
Amy has spent over 13 years in specialty veterinary medicine and is passionate about long-term patient care and complex disease management. She lives in Kentucky with her rescue dog, Dutch, her husband, and their two-year-old son. Originally from Florida, she loves spending time outdoors with her family.
Kandace
Inventory Supervisor
Kandace has 14 years of veterinary experience and is Fear Free and RECOVER ALS/BLS certified. She loves emergency medicine and surgery and is working toward becoming an LVT. At home, she cares for a lively mix of pets—including dogs, cats, reptiles, chickens, goats, a miniature horse, and more—and says out of all animals, she’d be a llama for their humor and charm.
Kristen, MS
Urgent Care Lead Inventory Team
Kristen has over 15 years in veterinary medicine, along with degrees from UofL and Boston University. After working in NYC as a forensic DNA analyst, she returned to veterinary medicine post-pandemic and now enjoys emergency care and surgery. She loves hiking, herbalism, and foraging, and hopes to add an LVT to her credentials soon!
Kim, LVT
Urgent Care Lead
Kim has spent over 17 years in veterinary medicine and loves caring for hospitalized patients. She’s a proud cat mom to three, including Butterbean, who is basically a human. Outside the clinic, she creates driftwood art, does home projects, reads, stays active, and embraces her artistic side.
Rachel
Urgent Care Lead
Rachel has 4 years of emergency veterinary experience and a degree in Veterinary Technology from Lincoln Memorial University, where she also played lacrosse. She plans to take the VTNE soon and shares her home with her dog, Sheldon. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, karaoke, flowers, and houseplants.
Emily
Urgent Care Lead
Emily has over 5 years of veterinary experience, primarily in emergency care, and she loves anesthesia and surgery assistance. She has a Biology degree with a minor in Classical Studies and enjoys hiking, reading, and sewing. With two cats of her own, she says she’d definitely be a housecat out of all animals.
Macy, LVT/RVT
Veterinary Technician
Macy has been in veterinary medicine since 2016, graduated from Purdue, and passed the VTNE on her first try. She’s pursuing her bachelor's in veterinary nursing and is passionate about being a voice for animals and educating clients. Outside of work, she runs sugar cookie and DJ-ing businesses, does CrossFit, and spends time with her two kids.
Ashley, LVT
Veterinary Technician
Ashley has spent 17 years in veterinary medicine and has a deep passion for patient care. She loves helping animals recover from illness and sees it as giving back to those who’ve supported her throughout her life. Outside work, she enjoys reading, reality TV, being outdoors, and a strong drink (or two).
Kristen, MS
Pet Death Doula
Kristen has over a decade in veterinary medicine and holds a Master’s in wildlife management. She’s part of our urgent care team and is a certified pet death doula who guides families through difficult decisions. She and her dog, Spice, have several AKC scent detection titles, and she is also a natural horsemanship trainer.
Jacinda, LVT
Veterinary Technician
Jacinda works at both VSP locations. She has 7 years in veterinary medicine and has wanted to work with animals since she was three. She graduated from Murray State, earned her LVT, and especially loves placing IV catheters. She enjoys reading, hiking, gaming on PlayStation, and spending time with her three dogs. She hopes to get her VTS in internal medicine.
Lisa, LVT
Veterinary Technician
Lisa has over 20 years in veterinary medicine and became an LVT after earning her applied science degree. She loves surgery and has lived and worked with horses in South Africa and England. Outside the clinic, she enjoys yoga, knitting, Zumba, and being a mom - she says she’s a mama bear at heart.
Lisa, LVT
Veterinary Technician
Lisa has over 16 years of experience and a Bachelor’s in Animal Health Technology. She loves teaching others and thrives on the unpredictability and challenges of veterinary medicine. Her passion comes from her deep love of animals and the constant opportunity to learn.
Nancy
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Nancy has 17 years of veterinary experience and especially loves taking care of hospitalized patients overnight. She enjoys bowling, baking, crafting, and has even won Kentucky State Fair ribbons for her creations. Loyal and hardworking, she says she’d be an opossum if she were any animal.
Megan
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Megan has been in veterinary medicine since 2014. She has two dogs, Ace and Ross, and two cats, Miles Meowles and Atticus Finn. She loves reading and video games, and her favorite thing in veterinary medicine is stabilizing critical patients.
Lindsay, LVT/RVT
Veterinary Technician
Lindsay has over 15 years in veterinary medicine and is proud to be an LVT. She holds a Biology degree from the University of Evansville and a Veterinary Technology degree from Purdue. She enjoys surgery, dentistry, radiology, ophthalmology, reading, and spending time with her family.
Stephanie, LVT
Veterinary Technician
Stephanie recently earned her veterinary technician license after graduating from OCTC and has over 5 years of experience. She loves dental cleanings and has four pets. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, playing with her dogs, and says she’d be a golden retriever out of any animal because she’s always smiling.
Naomy, LVT
Veterinary Technician
Naomy has 8 years in veterinary medicine and recently became an LVT after graduating with an Associates of Applied Science in veterinary technology in 2016. She’s always learning and improving her skills. Outside of work, she loves boxing and has three dogs.
Courtney, LVT
Veterinary Technician
Courtney brings 6 years of veterinary experience and enjoys nail trims and cytology in the clinic. She has five pets and is working toward a VTS in clinical practice. In her free time, she enjoys Zumba, horseback riding, drawing, reading, and trips to the park or zoo with her husband and two kids.
Vanessa, LVT
Veterinary Technician
Vanessa has been in vet med since 2016, graduated with honors from St. Petersburg College, and quickly became an LVT. She’s applying to LMU’s Master of Veterinary Clinical Care program and previously spent nearly a decade in radio. She enjoys splinting, phlebotomy, microscopy, gardening, and time with her dogs.
Allie
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Allie has 8 years of veterinary experience and loves all types of surgery and triage. She has four dogs and a snake and enjoys time with friends, family, and watching her kids play sports. She’s known for being fun, compassionate, and excellent with patient care.
Shawna, LVT
Veterinary Technician
Shawna is an LVT with 7 years of experience and a passion for diagnostic work-ups. She hopes to specialize one day but hasn’t chosen a field yet. Outside work, she enjoys working out, gaming, concerts, and time with her four dogs - and if she could be any animal, she says she’d be one that can fly for easy travel.
Tayler
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Check back soon to learn more about Tayler!
Heather
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Check back soon to learn more about Heather!
Michaela
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Check back soon to learn more about Michaela!
Morgan, LVT
Veterinary Technician
Morgan has 6 years of veterinary experience, a Bachelor’s in Veterinary Technology from Murray State, and is a licensed LVT. She loves emergency triage and is considering a VTS in emergency and critical care. A military veteran, she enjoys hiking, gardening, baking bread, reading, and spending time with her dog and cat.
Paige
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Check back soon to learn more about Paige!
Rebecca
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Rebecca has been in vet med for 8 years and is working toward licensure while balancing life as a new mom. She’s passionate about helping anxious patients feel comfortable. At home, she enjoys board games, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her German Shepherd.
Sara
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Check back soon to learn more about Sara!
Amanda
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Amanda started in vet med 12 years ago as a kennel tech and fell in love with surgery, internal medicine, and critical care. She’s working toward the VTNE and plans to pursue VTS credentials in internal medicine and sonography. She’s traveled extensively, even pet sitting in Europe!
Maggie, RVT
Veterinary Technician
Maggie works at both VSP locations. Check back soon to learn more about Maggie!
Kendall
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Kendall works at both VSP locations. Check back soon to learn more about Kendall!
Brittany
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Check back soon to learn more about Brittany!
Meet Our Clinical Staff
in Evansville, IN
At our secondary location in Evansville, Indiana, we have another dedicated team equipped to provide complex and specialized care for pets. Our board-certified internal medicine specialists provide expert care for pets with complex medical needs. From unexplained symptoms to chronic illness, we use advanced diagnostics and innovative treatments to uncover answers and guide your pet’s care with confidence. This team is experienced in managing a wide range of conditions, including gastrointestinal disease, endocrine disorders, autoimmune conditions, infectious disease, and more.
Angel, RVT, LVT
Veterinary Technician
Check back soon to learn more about Angel!
Maggie, RVT
Veterinary Technician
Maggie works at both VSP locations. Check back soon to learn more about Maggie!
Jessica
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Check back soon to learn more about Jessica!
Ashley
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Check back soon to learn more about Ashley!
Kendall
Advanced Patient Care Associate
Kendall works at both VSP locations. Check back soon to learn more about Kendall!
Jacinda, LVT
Veterinary Technician
Jacinda works at both VSP locations. She has 7 years in veterinary medicine and has wanted to work with animals since she was three. She graduated from Murray State, earned her LVT, and especially loves placing IV catheters. She enjoys reading, hiking, gaming on PlayStation, and spending time with her three dogs. She hopes to get her VTS in internal medicine.