Meet Our Veterinary Team

Dr. Natasha Stanley, Owner & CMO

Dr. Stanley’s love for veterinary medicine began before she could even remember. Growing up in middle America, Dr. Stanley and her family seemed to collect critters. Eventually, finding her way into her hometown clinic and reading all the James Herriot writings began her dream and addiction to this field and the relationships it has brought her. Instead of her family’s plan of a law career, Dr. Stanley worked her way west and pursued her path to veterinary school.

Dr. Stanley’s first stop was Arizona State University, where she simultaneously earned her undergraduate degree and license as a certified veterinary technician. It is also where Dr. Stanley discovered her love and passion for emergency medicine. Arizona did not have a veterinary school in the early 2000s, so her travels took her to Oregon, where she decided to become a resident before applying to vet school. During Dr. Stanley’s time before, during, and between semesters in vet school, she worked at the teaching hospital at Oregon State, Dove Lewis Emergency & Specialty Hospital, and helped to lead a brand new hospital into a 24-hour clinic. Graduating from Oregon State in 2012, Dr. Stanley mostly stayed in emergency medicine. Still, she also developed skills outside of emergency medicine in a high-volume, non-profit spay-neuter clinic and became acupuncture certified for all creatures. Dr. Stanley’s primary medical interests include soft tissue surgery, multi-modal pain control, anesthesia for the critical patient, a fear-free clinic environment, positive training, her favorite rabbit hole, complex medical cases, and sepsis management/urgent care.

While Dr. Stanley’s focus in medicine is small animals and pocket pets, she enjoys owning, riding, and training horses. Dr. Stanley is grateful for and blessed with a fantastic husband and a family of 3 horses, two goats, three dogs, three cats, chickens, quail… (Stay tuned- this number is constantly changing!). Dr. Stanley is also a reader, a hiker of public lands, an amateur photographer, and a genuine geek.

Dr. Stephanie Permenter, Medical Director & ER Veterinarian

Dr. Stephanie is an Idaho native whose love for animals and veterinary medicine developed at an early age while helping to care for the numerous animals on the family farm. She grew up nursing sick kittens, bottle feeding calves, and actively showing horses.

She received her veterinary degree from Washington State University in 2011 and did an internship in equine medicine in Minnesota. After returning to Boise, she worked in general practice seeing dogs and cats, as well as numerous years running her own equine practice. In 2015, she attended the Chi Institute in Florida to become acupuncture certified and enjoys studying the Chinese medicine philosophy of health and healing alongside conventional healing modalities.

When she is not at work, Dr. Stephanie enjoys spending time with her husband and son, riding horses, camping, photography, and she is learning to paint.

Dr. Justin Jensen, ER Veterinarian

Dr. Justin Jensen is a dedicated veterinarian with a passion for animal care and welfare. He was raised in Nampa, Idaho, for the majority of his childhood, and after his father’s work took his family to Montana, he finally returned. After completing his veterinary education at Western University of Health Sciences, he began work as a general practice veterinarian. After a year of general practice, he made the switch to urgent care and emergency medicine. He has a special interest in wound management, ultrasound, veterinary dental medicine, and soft tissue surgery. At home, Dr. Jensen, his wife, and two rambunctious boys are accompanied by a handful of critters. He has two dogs, Birdi and Reba, a tortoise named Tiny Tim, and a flock of homing pigeons. Depending on the season, you can find Dr. Jensen and his family on the lake waterskiing and enjoying the sun, and in the fall, training versatile hunting dogs and hunting upland game.

Dr. Karlie Lonchar, ER Veterinarian

Dr. Karlie Lonchar started her veterinary journey with the goal of being an equine practitioner. While completing her undergraduate degree, she worked alongside equine veterinarians and sports medicine specialists. After obtaining her bachelor’s degree, she spent a gap year working and gaining more experience in a small animal general practice. While attending veterinary school, she worked as an inpatient veterinary assistant at a fast-paced general practice/emergency hospital. It was during that time she fell in love with small animal medicine and decided to dedicate her career to smaller creatures. In July of 2023, she completed a year-long emergency and critical care-focused rotating internship and soon after moved to Idaho with her partner of almost 9 years. Outside of work, you can find her golfing and enjoying campfires with her fiancé and miniature Australian Shepherd Stella (and cat Bogey).

Education:
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University.
Bachelor of Science in Equine Science, Idaho State University.
Emergency & Critical Care Focused Rotating Internship, (AVECCC)

Dr. Cassidy Smith, ER Veterinarian

Dr. Smith can never recall when she decided she was going to become a veterinarian. It just always was; it’s who she was and is. It was never hard deciding on the right career path for her because veterinary medicine was just the path she was always meant to be on since she began walking and dragging every feral cat and homeless dog she met on that path along with her (whether they wanted to or not). Dr. Smith comes from a small town in Wyoming.  The entire population of that sleepy little agricultural town can fit in the arena auditorium in Laramie, WY, five times over, where she obtained her undergraduate degree at the University of Wyoming. While at UW, she ran track for the D1 school, was on the collegiate meat judging team for UW, which allowed her to travel all over the country, and worked in Thailand for 1 month at an elephant and canine sanctuary. Dr. Smith was also a manager of a non-profit animal shelter in Cheyenne, WY, for 4 years during her undergraduate studies, and worked in biosecurity at the BSL-3 Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory.

After obtaining her bachelor’s degree, Dr. Smith obtained her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at Washington State University, where she fell in love with emergency medicine. She worked in the intensive care unit in the teaching hospital of WSU, beginning her second year of veterinary school, and that solidified her future in emergency and critical care of small animals. Dr. Smith simultaneously worked on the necropsy floor of the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. After graduating from WSU, she worked as an emergency veterinarian in Idaho Falls, ID, for 3 years before joining the team at Viking Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Smith’s particular interests in emergency and critical care include critical internal medicine cases, transfusion medicine, and soft tissue surgery.

Beyond veterinary medicine, Dr. Smith’s other passions include traveling, weight and power lifting, reading, puzzles, home renovation/flipping homes, cooking, and fine dining. She has 5 animals, 4 of which she rescued along the way, and all named after food items (Cats – Pistachio and Chicken Wang (born with a paw defect and named for that personality paw). Dogs – Bean (Dr. Smith’s first canine neuter patient on her shelter medicine rotation during veterinary school), Tater Tot, and Honey Buns (job description: blood donor; saving lives of the many canines across South East Idaho, Northern Utah, and Eastern Wyoming).   

Dr. Jessica Meloche, ER Veterinarian

Dr. Meloche was 7 years old when she decided she wanted to be a small animal veterinarian. Her favorite TV show was Animal Cops, which inspired her passion to help needy animals. Dr. Meloche is from a small town in West Michigan and was one of the few students from her high school to attend a D1 university. She attended Michigan State University for both Undergraduate studies and Veterinary School. She earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Animal Science, a Spanish minor, and her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Meloche’s love for emergency medicine blossomed as she started working in MSU’s Intensive Care Unit as a first-year veterinary student. She put in thousands of hours over the course of 4 years and learned to love the chaos that is the ER. She took all her elective courses and externships to further her passion for emergency medicine. Dr. Meloche graduated in 2022 and worked as an ER doctor in Michigan for 11 months before moving to Idaho in May 2023 to pursue a new adventure out west. She enjoys watching and playing sports (including rooting on the Spartans), being active outside, reading, and traveling.

Dr. Meloche is Fear Free Certified, proficient in Spanish, and is especially fond of working with/cuddling up to Pitbull mixes and cats (“Pitties and Kitties”) as she calls them.

Jordan Wohlert, Executive Assistant

Michael , Kennel Tech

I’ve had a passion for working with animals ever since I was a kid. I wanted to further my career in the animal science field so I decided to get a bachelor’s in Pre-Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production from the University of Idaho. While in school, I fell in love with large animals and currently work in a veterinary diagnostics lab dealing with mastitis and other diseases in dairy cattle. Outside of work, I love all outdoor activities. In the winter, snowboarding is my pride and joy, while in the summer, you can catch me at any golf course. If I’m not doing either of those things, I am more than likely riding my motorcycle all throughout the PNW. I love to travel, and riding a bike is the best way to get from point A to point B!

Bryan, CVT – Tech Lead

I have spent the majority of my working career in veterinary medicine. Animals have always been a passion in my life. I attended Carrington College, where I graduated Cum Laude with an A.S in Veterinary Technology. I received my license in 2019 as a C.V.T. Working in Vet med has been one of the greatest accomplishments in my life. I am a father of 2 wonderful sons and a husband to an amazing wife that I met in college. Together, my wife and I work with Boxer Lovers Rescue to foster pets that are timid and shy. We strive to bring their true personality out in hopes of finding them their forever home.

Jordyn Walters, CVT – Clinical Manager

Since 2015, Jordyn has been working in the veterinary field, gaining experience in both general practice and emergency/urgent care settings. Over the years, she developed a strong interest in the fast-paced environment of emergency medicine and critical care. Jordyn has been with Viking Veterinary Hospital since its opening, starting as a CVT and working up to the role of Clinical Manager. Despite taking on a leadership position, she still enjoys working closely with the team and applying her technical skills on the floor.

Outside of work, Jordyn enjoys spending time in the gym or exploring the mountains. At home, she loves being with her son and their crew of cats and dogs.

Ronni, Veterinary Assistant

Bio coming soon!

Jannae, Veterinary Assistant & Operations Coordinator

Bio coming soon!

Sara, Veterinary Assistant

My name is Sara, I’ve been in vet med for 20 years now, in my spare time I like to spend time with my husband and our three dogs, or riding around in our side by side.

Mary, Veterinary Assistant

Mary is a dedicated veterinary professional who relocated from North Carolina. She graduated from Penn Foster with a degree in veterinary technology and has four years of experience as a veterinary assistant, including two years as a lead shift/floor manager. Passionate about advancing her skills, Mary aims to become a Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in either anesthesia or laboratory settings. Outside of work, she cherishes time with her daughter and her two beloved senior dachshunds, who are the center of her world.

Faith, Veterinary Assistant

Hello, my name is Faith, and I moved here 4 years ago from the Bay Area, California. Ever since I was a little girl, I knew that one day I would end up in Vet Med, and I have been in the field now for 3 years! I have a huge passion for animals, big and small.

When I’m not working, I enjoy competitively barrel racing with my horses. I also enjoy spending time with my Australian Cattle Dog, Ryder, and my foster fail tri-pod kitty Critter!

When it’s not barrel racing, I am showing English Labrador Retrievers in conformation.

Other hobbies of mine include fishing, paddleboarding, and photography.

Elena, Veterinary Assistant

Hi, my name is Elena Gomez, and I was born in Pueblo, Idaho, and moved to Boise in 2020. I grew up with a passion for animals, and I’ve worked with many, including an albino skunk, a red panda, and a lion! I absolutely love working with our fur babies every day!

Shar Barker, Client Service Manager

Shar is the Client Service Manager at Viking Veterinary Hospital. She joined the team after gaining seven years of experience in emergency room practice, as well as navigating her own share of personal pet emergencies.

Shar feels a strong connection to owners who find themselves in small rooms or hospital lobbies, unsure of the outcome for their pets. She is proud that everyone at Viking Veterinary has been on the other side of the counter and understands the importance of providing exceptional care to both pets and their owners. She is excited to be part of a hospital that works tirelessly to support the community.

As a pet parent, Shar has been fortunate to share her life with her Soul Puppy Sam, She-Devil Daisy, Princess, Misty, and Itsy Bitsy. Her three children have also blessed her with seven grandchildren, keeping her life full and vibrant.

Abby Swapp, General Practice Manager

Abby has been working in veterinary medicine since 2013, though her love for animals spans her entire life. Veterinary medicine naturally captured her heart along the way. She grew up on a farm with a variety of animals, showed sheep and horses at the state fair, and has had many pets throughout her life.

When she’s not working, Abby enjoys crafting, off-roading, and spending time outdoors camping with her husband, three dogs, and two adventure cats. Most of all, she looks forward to coming home after a long day to snuggle with her pets.

Dawn, Financial/CSM Assistant

Bio coming soon!

Sarah, Technician Shift Lead

Bio coming soon!

Lexie, Certified Veterinary Technician

Lexie is a CVT who graduated from Homedale High School and spent time exploring the Treasure Valley before finding her home in Boise. Her favorite hobbies include skiing, paddleboarding, and reading. Lexie shares her home with two dogs and two very laid-back cats. She is a relaxed, easygoing person who looks forward to new experiences.

Kenzie, Veterinary Assistant

Bio coming soon!

Alexx, Certified Veterinary Technician

Alexx is a CVT who is excited to be part of the Viking Veterinary team. She graduated from Brown Mackie College in 2017 and has since worked in both emergency and general practice, discovering a strong passion for emergency medicine. Alexx loves helping people care for their pets.

At home, she shares her life with three dogs, four cats, and several reptiles. She enjoys gardening, walking, and spending time with her husband and 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.  

Christa, Client Services Representative

Bio coming soon!

Mindy, Client Service Representative

Mindy has been in the veterinary field since 2007, embracing each day as an opportunity to learn something new. She has a passion for her work and for helping others, and she feels fortunate to have found a home at Viking Veterinary Hospital, where the family-like atmosphere extends to both the team and the clients.

Mindy holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Administration and hopes to pursue her Master’s degree in the future.

At home, she shares her life with her Newfoundland, Fiona; an English Bulldog, Hazel; a cat, Hamilton; a Bearded Dragon, Lego; and a Fire Eel, Butters. When she’s not working, Mindy enjoys 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.

Kylie, Veterinary Assistant

Bio coming soon!

Elise, Client Services Representative

Elise Rosenberger has been playing competitive beach and grass volleyball for about five years and continues to enjoy the sport regularly. When she’s not on the court, Elise enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing other sports, watching anime, and crocheting. Animals are a central part of her life, and she loves and cherishes every pet she meets, caring for them as if they were her 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, Orthopedic Coordinator

Kelly grew up in Boise and is a proud mom to five children and grandma to two wonderful grandchildren. After retiring from a career she loved spanning 24 years, she knew her next chapter would be something completely different. She discovered the veterinary field and quickly fell in love with it. Kelly truly enjoys meeting new people and their pets, ensuring both have a positive experience at Viking Veterinary Hospital.

Her dog Jax came into her life after her previous dog crossed the rainbow bridge. Jax shares the home with two other companions, Groot and Murphy, a foster fail.

On her days off, Kelly enjoys cycling, mountain biking, or hiking outdoors with her dogs.

Christy, Certified Veterinary Technician

Bio coming soon!