Our Team

Viking Veterinary Hospital in Idaho Falls

Meet the Veterinarians & Team of Viking Veterinary Hospital! We’re pleased to provide exceptional vet care for your pets!

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Our Mission

Viking Veterinary Hospital Idaho Falls Emergency recognizes our importance and responsibility to the veterinary community and the pets of the entire region. We believe that pets are part of the family and have significant importance on many levels. We strive to provide the best medical care for every patient with compassion, understanding and respect for everyone’s situation.

About Our Hospital

Viking Veterinary Hospital

Viking Veterinary Hospital originated in Nampa, ID, in December 2022 and, in August 2024, expanded to include Idaho Falls. The Idaho Falls location was initially established by Dr. Sarah Herres, who has been the cornerstone of the practice since its founding in 2007. The Idaho Falls location has been dedicated to providing 24/7/365 emergency and critical care for many years and will continue to offer the highest level of service for the Idaho Falls community and the entire eastern Idaho/Western Wyoming region. We pride ourselves on quality medicine and high-level patient care. We are privately owned and truly value our employees’ own well-being so that we can act with intention, empathy, and focus on serving the community. The world of medicine is always evolving, and we work to progress, learn, and grow with it.

Meet the Team of Viking Veterinary Hospital

Please click an image to read their bio.

DOCTORS



Dr. Herres

Medical Director, Veterinarian

Dr. Hively

Veterinarian

Dr. Hall

Veterinarian

Dr. Sallee

Veterinarian

Dr. Lucore

Veterinarian

Managers



Brittanny Christensen, CVT

Clinical Manager

Caitlin Maberry, CVT

Assistant Clinical Manager

Violeta Carlson

CSR Supervisor

Staff



Kaitlyn Nelson, CVT

Lacy Bales

Coleen Nelson, CVT

Eleanor Kielland, CVT

Kekoa Allen

Veterinary Assistant

Dr. Hall, Veterinarian

Dr. Hall is a Southeastern Idaho native and Washington State University grad. She graduated with her bachelors in nursing from Idaho State University in 2010 and practiced as a OR nurse for many years prior to going back to veterinary school. She has been working at the Idaho Falls hospital since graduated vet school. She loves hounds and hunting breeds and dabbles in trail running and skiing. She loves being a part of the team of amazing staff and doctors in Idaho Falls and is grateful for the opportunity to serve her community as an ER vet.

Dr. Sallee, Veterinarian

Dr. Aubrey was raised in Idaho Falls from the age of five, with the dream of becoming a veterinarian. She is excited to be able to come back to her hometown and help the community she grew up with. She enjoys paddle boarding, fishing, and a traditional South African braai (pronounced “br-eye”). Aubrey received her Bachelor’s degree from Utah State University and then her veterinary degree from Washington State University. She discovered her passion for emergency medicine while obtaining her Bachelor’s degree and working at an emergency and specialty vet hospital in Utah. She has since worked in both emergency medicine and general practice, and is happy to now be a part of the Viking Vet Team.

Dr. Lucore, Veterinarian

Dr. Lucore is a Mississippi native and attended Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She worked as a technician before veterinary school and has been working in emergency medicine since graduation. When not working, she enjoys hiking, swimming, reading, and spending time with her family. She is excited to have joined the Viking Veterinary family!

Dr. Herres, Medical Director, Veterinarian

Dr. Sarah Herres is passionate about ensuring veterinary emergency service remains available to all pets and pet owners in the area. Dr. Herres graduated from Iowa State University in 1997 and started her career in emergency medicine in Phoenix, Arizona. After relocating to Idaho Falls in 2002, she tried out general practice for a few years. However, she then jumped at the chance to return to the ER when the first (and still the only) veterinary emergency clinic was created here in Idaho Falls. It has been good to see the practice grow and expand, and it is fulfilling to know what a resource it is for the veterinary community. When not working, Dr. Herres enjoys working on puzzles, getting out for float trips, and spending time with her family and pets (two dogs, one cat, and one turtle).

Dr. Hively, Veterinarian

Dr. Hively is an Ohio native that attended Idaho State University for her undergraduate degree in Zoology. She then went on to graduate from The University of Glasgow School of Veterinary Medicine. She worked as a veterinary technician for several years before and during vet school and has focused on emergency medicine since graduating. She enjoys all the outdoor experiences that Southeast Idaho has to offer.

Brittanny Christensen, CVT

Clinical Manager

My name is Brittanny. I am the clinical manager here at Viking Veterinary Clinic in Idaho Falls. I have been a certified veterinary technician for about 10 years and spent most of that time in emergency/urgent care. My family and I moved back to the Idaho Falls area 3 years ago, which is back to the area where I grew up. My life’s dream is to pet my favorite animal: a penguin.

Kekoa Allen

Veterinary Assistant

Kekoa has had a love for animals ever since she was young. After bringing home multiple stray animals, she eventually got to keep her first pet, Mr. Sox. She has worked in emergency medicine for the past 4 years and loves helping the patients. Her favorite animals are her two dogs, Scout and Goose.

Caitlin Maberry, CVT

Assistant Clinical Manager

Caitlin Maberry was born and raised in California. Veterinary medicine has always been a part of her life, with a veterinarian father, and veterinary technician mother. As soon as she was old enough to be employed, she worked with animals. She worked her way up steadily, from dog walker, to grooming assistant, to kennel attendant. In 2014, she got her degree in Veterinary Technology and soon after became a Registered Veterinary Technician. She spent five years working at a general practice, two years working in Neurology/Neurosurgery, and one year in Emergency and Critical care before moving to Idaho in 2021. She has been with this hospital ever since, and is now Assistant Clinical Manager (and CVT). Caitlin is passionate about maintaining a high standard of medicine for our patients. She also strives to maintain set standards within the hospital so that things run smoothly.

Violeta Carlson, CSR Supervisor

Idaho has been my home for the majority of my life. During my down time I like to relax at home with my husband, son, four cats and dog. I have been at the Emergency Hospital for three years and enjoy working with the clients and patients. Having been on the other side of the counter, I know what it is like to be faced with a stressful situation and it is always my goal to share compassion and care with everyone that comes through our doors.

Kaitlyn Nelson, CVT

Kaitlyn Nelson, a native of Idaho Falls, graduated from the College of Southern Idaho with a degree in Veterinary Technology in 2012. With over five years of experience in emergency medicine, she is passionate about providing expert care to animals in critical situations. Kaitlyn’s love for animals, especially dogs, drives her dedication to delivering compassionate care in every aspect of her work.

Lacy Bales

Lacy Bales, originally from a small town in California, moved to Idaho with her family in 2021. With over six years of experience in the veterinary field, her love for animals began early. Lucy’s farm is home to chickens, turkeys, cats, dogs, goats, horses, and guinea pigs, reflecting her deep passion for animals. While she loves all animals, horses hold a special place in her heart, having ridden since the age of six. Animals are her life, and she wouldn’t have it any other way!

Eleanor Kielland, CVT

I was born in China but lived in Alaska for 18 years before going off to college in Montana. I graduated with Natural Horsemanship training and Veterinary Technology. I’ve been in the veterinary field since 2019. I was a dog musher for 22 years before I decided to dedicate my hobby to training and riding horses.

Coleen Nelson, CVT

I graduated from College of Southern Idaho with my associates in Veterinary Technology back in 2019. After I graduated I worked in general practice for a couple years until I decided to branch out and found my passion in emergency medicine in 2021. I love working in emergency medicine because it is so rewarding for me to be able to watch my critical patients go home and rejoin their families again full of tail wags and love.

Lacy Bales

Lacy Bales, originally from a small town in California, moved to Idaho with her family in 2021. With over six years of experience in the veterinary field, her love for animals began early. Lucy’s farm is home to chickens, turkeys, cats, dogs, goats, horses, and guinea pigs, reflecting her deep passion for animals. While she loves all animals, horses hold a special place in her heart, having ridden since the age of six. Animals are her life, and she wouldn’t have it any other way!

Lacy Bales

Lacy Bales, originally from a small town in California, moved to Idaho with her family in 2021. With over six years of experience in the veterinary field, her love for animals began early. Lucy’s farm is home to chickens, turkeys, cats, dogs, goats, horses, and guinea pigs, reflecting her deep passion for animals. While she loves all animals, horses hold a special place in her heart, having ridden since the age of six. Animals are her life, and she wouldn’t have it any other way!

Dr. Brooke Bennett, ER Veterinarian

Dr. Brooke Bennett completed her doctorate in veterinary medicine at Oklahoma State University in 2020. Following graduation, she entered an internship at her alma mater in Shelter Medicine with a specific focus in high quality, high volume (HQHV) spay/neuter techniques. In 2021, she started working in HQHV spay/neuter in Tulsa, Oklahoma. After about a year, Dr. Bennett wanted to expand her scope of practice into general small animal practice as well as a change in landscape. She and her husband took new jobs in Pullman, Washington, and moved their little family to the Pacific Inland region. Since that move, Dr. Bennett has been at Alpine Animal Hospital in Pullman, Washington, focusing on soft tissue surgery, dentistry, integrative medicine, and behavioral medicine and ultimately, falling in love with the Palouse and the Pullman-Moscow community it supports.

After about 2 years in general practice, Dr. Bennett recognized a desperate need in the region for small animal veterinarians focused primarily on emergency and critical care; the local teaching hospital and general practices were having difficulty supporting the needs of their shared clients and pets. When it was announced that Viking Veterinary Hospital would be arriving in Moscow, Idaho, to provide this service, Dr. Bennett knew this would be an opportunity to support the community she has grown to love and quickly applied. She is excited for the opportunity and privilege to serve pet owners in their times of need.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Bennett’s interests include going on hiking and camping adventures with her husband, Jeremiah, and their two dogs, Beck and Annie. Beck is a 2020 mixed breed dog (half border collie, half chihuahua) that is Dr. Bennett’s heart dog, and Annie is a 2013 mix breed dog (pittie/something-scruffy) that is Jeremiah’s best friend. Dr. Bennett also spends a lot of time keeping her two cats, Creek and Ripple, out of all of her crochet and cross stitch supplies. Last but not least, Dr. Bennett’s fifth pet is an approximately 18 year old creamsicle corn snake named Rio and is arguably their most well-behaved pet. She cannot wait to be a part of Team Viking to support pet owners in the Palouse and surrounding areas when they are in need!

Dr. Stephanie Permenter, Owner & Medical Director

From a young age, I knew that caring for animals was my calling. Growing up on a family farm, I spent countless hours nursing injured animals back to health and taking care of sick calves and kittens, all while developing a deep connection with the creatures around me. My love for animals naturally led me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.

I attended vet school at Washington State University. After graduating, I pursued an internship in equine medicine, where I honed my skills and knowledge. After returning home I worked in our family small animal veterinary clinic while I also established and successfully ran my own ambulatory equine vet clinic. I continued my equine practice for over a decade adding animal acupuncture and chiropractic services for horses before I transferred my focus back to small animal medicine. Working with horses, in particular, has always been a passion of mine, having spent my childhood riding and showing in 4-H and PonyClub.

For many years, I dreamed of moving my family to a smaller town to enjoy a quieter pace of life. When the opportunity to become involved in the ownership of another hospital arose, I began evaluating where we might find our perfect match. As an Idaho native and farm kid, who loves the mountains, Moscow stood out to us as the ideal place. The town offers a perfect blend of small-town charm, farming traditions, and a mountain lifestyle that I have always cherished. My time in the region during undergrad and vet school only deepened my love for this area.

Today, I find great fulfillment professionally in helping people and pets in small animal emergency medicine. The fast-paced environment allows me to be there for both animals and their owners during some of the most critical moments in their lives. It’s a privilege to provide care and support when it’s needed most. I am excited to fulfill one of my life values of service by offering after-hours and emergency care for small animals, helping both the community and area veterinarians.

Outside of work, I continue to enjoy riding cutting horses, trail riding, photography, and spending quality time with my family.

Lexie, Certified Veterinary Technician

Hi! My name is Lexie, a CVT. I graduated from Homedale High School and then bounced around the treasure valley until I finally found my home in Boise. My favorite hobbies include skiing, paddle boarding or reading. I have 2 dogs, and 2 very lazy cats. I’m a super laid back person that’s looking forward to new experiences.

Alexx, Certified Veterinary Technician

Hello, my name is Alexx. I am a CVT and I am so excited to join the Viking team! I graduated from Brown Mackie College in 2017. After graduating, I worked in emergency and in general practice and I’ve learned that I have a passion for emergency medicine. I love to help people help their pets. I have 3 dogs, 4 cats, and many reptiles. I enjoy gardening, walking, and spending time with my husband and our family.

Hailey, Technician Shift Lead

Bio coming soon!

Tatiana, Veterinary Assistant

Hello my name is Tatiana Bruns! I own a Bernese mountain dog named Bear plus my two cats Olaf and Nugget. I’ve been an animal lover since I was a little kid and it has never stopped and I’ve never had a job that hasn’t had animals involved.

Bailey, Veterinary Assistant

Bio coming soon!

Maddie, Veterinary Assistant

Maddie has been in the veterinary field since 2009 but her love for animals started before she could even walk. Raised in Washington State with a wide assortment of family pets and the occasional wildlife rescue she’s never gone a day without some sort of critter to take care of. Maddie is very passionate about emergency veterinary care and is one of our dedicated weekend warriors! On her days off she’s hanging out with her 10-year-old border collie mix, Petey, and 1-year-old Bengal cat, Archie.

Mindy, Client Service Representative

I’ve been in the vet field since 2007 and every day is a day to learn something new. I have a passion for what I do and how I can help. I feel so lucky to have landed at VVH because I never thought I would feel that family feeling at work again. If you come visit us at VVH you can see firsthand that the way, we care about each other is how we are going to care about you and your fur baby….like family.

I have my Bachelor of Science in Health Administration and would love to continue with my Masters in the future.

I have a Newfoundland named Fiona, an English Bulldog named Hazel, a cat named Hamiliton, a Bearded Dragon named Lego, and a Fire Eel named Butters.

When I am not working, I love being a mom, restoring antiques, gardening, and gaming.

Grant, Technician Shift Lead

Grant has wanted to be a veterinarian since he was 5 years old and would love to own his own practice in the future. He has been working in the veterinary field for 4 years and loves all animals especially his 3-year-old Border Collie, Primrose. Grant moved to Nampa over 2 years ago in order to start a new church here in the Treasure Valley. When outside of work, he loves studying theology, rock climbing, fishing, playing soccer, and chess. He strives to do his work with joy and integrity, and treats every patient as if it were his own.

Maddison – Veterinary Assistant

Maddison was born and raised in sunny Southern California, but has spent the last few years in Boise pursuing one of her passions by working with animals. She has a knack for reuniting lost and found pets and volunteers with rescues to help find homes for those in need. She would love to one day add ‘foster-pet parent’ to her list of titles and have an animal rescue of her own. In the meantime, she loves getting to interact with pets on a daily basis and help care for them in a professional capacity.

Sophia, Kennel Technician

Hi, my name is Sophia. I am new to the veterinary world but I’m very excited to join the team! I grew up on a small farm and have always enjoyed working with animals, especially horses! I love being outdoors hiking, camping, horseback riding, and swimming. I am looking forward to this opportunity to learn new skills!

Tori, Kennel Technician

I moved here about 8 years ago. I love spending time with family, friends and my dogs. I love reading and I love going out to the desert. I love cooking and I love the country life. Also I have always had many different animals throughout my life.

Tate, Client Services Representative

Bio coming soon!

Kylie, Client Services Representative

Bio coming soon!

Elise, Client Services Representative

My name is Elise Rosenberger. Something to know about me is that I have been playing competitive beach and grass volleyball for about 5 years now, and continue to love the sport and play regularly. When I’m not playing volleyball, I enjoy time with friends and family, playing other sports, watching anime, and crocheting. Animals are a part of my life I’m unwilling to ever give up. I love and cherish every pet I meet and care for it as if it were my own.

Mel, Client Services Representative

Mel is new to the veterinary field and emergency veterinary care. After finding her passion, she now has aspirations to be a CVT someday. Outside the hospital, she spends her time with her husband, daughter, and all of their animals.

Kelly, GP & Ortho Coordinator

I grew up in Boise. I am a mom to 5 kids and grandma to 2 awesome kids. I retired after 24 years in a career I loved. I knew my next chapter in life was going to be something completely different. I looked into the veterinary field and fell in love. I truly enjoy meeting new people and their fur babies and helping both have a good experience at Viking Veterinary Hospital.

This is Jax who came into my life after my other dog crossed his rainbow bridge. He has 2 other housemates, Groot and Murphy, a foster fail.

On my off days, I am outside cycling, mountain biking, or hiking with my dogs.

Our Team

Viking Veterinary Hospital in Idaho Falls

Our Mission

About Our Hospital

Viking Veterinary Hospital

Meet the Team of Viking Veterinary Hospital

DOCTORS

Dr. Herres

Medical Director, Veterinarian

Dr. Hively

Veterinarian

Dr. Hall

Veterinarian

Dr. Sallee

Veterinarian

Dr. Lucore

Veterinarian

Managers

Brittanny Christensen, CVT

Clinical Manager

Caitlin Maberry, CVT

Assistant Clinical Manager

Violeta Carlson

CSR Supervisor

Staff

Kaitlyn Nelson, CVT

Lacy Bales

Coleen Nelson, CVT

Eleanor Kielland, CVT

Kekoa Allen

Veterinary Assistant

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Locations

Contact Information

Hours

Nampa

Idaho Falls

Moscow