Jennifer D. Hale, DVM

Veterinarian and Owner

Dr. Jennifer Hale was born and raised in St. Paul, Minnesota.

When asked in first grade what she wanted to be when she grew up, she answered, “Veterinarian!”

She has worked as a general practitioner, emergency medicine clinician and relief veterinarian (at more than 150 different hospitals).

She has 25+ years of experience in preventive care, emergency and internal medicine, surgery and dentistry. Dr. Hale loves animals and has dedicated her life to caring for pets and the people who love them.

If you are looking for a new vet or would like a second opinion, Dr. Hale would love to help.

When Dr. Hale is not at the hospital, she loves to spend time with her husband, daughter and pets.  Hobbies include traveling, gardening, biking and running (she ran track at Augustana College). 

Education:

Bachelor of Arts (Biology), magna cum laude, Augustana College, Sioux Falls, SD  1996

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), University of Minnesota  2000

Tanya, Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)

Tanya graduated from Globe College in 1998 with her A.A.S. degree. She joined River Rapids Pet Hospital + Clinic in 2023. Tanya lives in Fridley with her husband, Jon; two sons, Zach and Jake; two cats, Frankie and Halo; and their dog, Evie.

In her spare time, Tanya enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching a good movie or TV show, and spending time outdoors.

Tanya is a Level III Certified Fear Free Professional.

Education:

Associate of Applied Science, Globe College, Minneapolis, MN 1998

Nicole, Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)

Kayla, Veterinary Receptionist

Kayla has a true passion for animals and collaborates closely with veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and clinic staff as a veterinary receptionist to ensure pets receive top-notch care while providing exceptional customer service.

Prior to pursuing a career in the animal care field, she earned a degree in Human Development and Family Science in 2010. After several years in childcare, Kayla decided to make a career change.

With more than 12 years of experience as a veterinary receptionist, Kayla joined River Rapids Pet Hospital and Clinic in the fall of 2024. Outside of her work at the clinic, she is dedicated to the cat and kitten foster community, having fostered hundreds of felines over the years.

Kayla lives in Blaine with her husband, son, and six cats.

Education:

Bachelor of Science, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 2010

Taylor, Veterinary student