Meet Our Team

Spencer

Veterinary Technician

Spencer attended Kirkwood Community College and has been working in the veterinary field for four years. He takes pride in providing a high standard of care and nurturing the human-animal bond. In his free time, he enjoys reading and spending time with animals.

Lauren

Veterinary Assistant

Lauren attended U of M and earned a Bachelor’s in Animal Science. She joined Heartland in 2019 and prides herself in being the most generous treat-giver in the clinic.

In her free time, she enjoys riding her horse to different lakes, hunting, fishing, and boating. If it involves water, she’s up for anything.

Ann

Receptionist

Ann graduated from Mankato State University and joined Heartland in 2012. Being a former teacher, Ann likes to help families get the information they need to help their furry family members have a happy and healthy life.

In her free time, she enjoys walking her dog, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Amy

Veterinary Technician

Amy pursued a Biology degree at Concordia College and later earned a Vet Tech degree from Argosy University. In 2009, she joined Heartland, driven by her passion to ensure every patient receives optimal comfort and care during their time at the facility. Amy firmly believes in going the extra mile, exemplified by the added warmth of an extra blanket.

Her commitment extends beyond the patients to their owners, as Amy strives to make clients feel a genuine connection and assurance that their pets are not just a statistic. Every client and their furry companions hold a special place in her heart.

In her leisure hours, Amy, accompanied by her husband and two daughters, revels in the joys of camping, fishing, soccer, and hockey. Every moment spent with her family, including their beloved dog and two cats, is cherished. Amy also finds immense delight in various crafting activities, rounding out a life filled with love, connection, and shared interests.

Penny

Veterinary Technician with Vet Tech Degree

Penny graduated from Argosy University Vet Tech degree and joined Heartland in 2023, but in the industry for 30 years. Penny prides herself on being a kind hand or voice to help patients through hard times when they don’t feel well.

In her spare time, she loves watching movies, fishing, and painting concrete monuments.

Toni

Practice Manager & CVT

Rudi

Veterinary Technician

Rudi attended Rochester Community Technical College and joined Heartland in 2020. Rudi is proud of Heartland’s high standard of care and high nursing care standards. She loves vet medicine because it’s a field that’s always evolving, and there’s always something new to learn.

Rudi spends time with her son and husband in her spare time. Walking their German Shepherd, snuggling with their cat Javier, and reading a good book.

Nora

Receptionist/Assistant

Nora attended U of M Rochester and received her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Health. She joined Heartland in 2023 and prides herself on helping the clinic run smoothly.

In her free time, she likes to hike and crochet.

Anna “Simon”

Veterinary Technician

Simon attended Dakota County Technical College and joined Heartland 2023. Simon prides herself on communicating effectively with patients about their animal’s care.

In her free time, Simon likes to obsess over her dog, Koda, read, watch youtube videos and play video games.

Kimmy

Veterinary Technician

Kimmy has been a Veterinary Technician with Heartland since 2023. Graduated from Argosy University in Eagan in 2013 and has worked in the field for the past 10 years. Kimmy prides herself on giving individualized, thoughtful care to each patient. She lives on a working farm, raising a variety of animals that keep her busy. Kimmy especially loves to show their horses with her family.

Karissa

Veterinary Assistant

Karissa loves helping out her co-workers in any way possible since joining Heartland in 2022. She also makes sure the animals get as much love and care as needed to keep them happy and comfortable.

In her free time, she loves spoiling her pets, playing video games, and relaxing outside.

Tara

Veterinary Technician

Tara joined Heartland in 2014 and has been in the Veterinary industry since 2010. She graduated from MN School of Business, Veterinary Technology. Tara prides herself on her compassionate care for patients, and good client communications. Whether it’s during surgery, treatments, or diagnostic procedures, she strives to provide the best care possible.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, they love nature. Hiking and biking outdoors, reading, art, and sports.

Dr. Robinette Dunahugh Ralston, DVM

Graduate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota in 2008. Has worked with Heartland on a semi-regular basis since 2022. Dr. Robinette loves to share her experience and knowledge with our clients and their 4 legged family members. Her special interests are Internal Medicine, Behavior, and Nutrition.

In her free time, she keeps busy with her family, which includes a lovely crew of samoyed dogs.

Dr. Illaina Neigebauer, DVM

Graduated from Ohio State University and joined Heartland in 2023. Has been in the Veterinary field since 2008. Dr. Illaina prides herself in working with clients and creating a plan that works best for them and their pet, to provide the best care. She is also happy to provide Ultrasound Imaging Services!

Her free time is spent with her husband and 2 kiddos! These two fill her days with play, reading, and hugs. They love being outside! Hobbies include traveling, camping, gardening, plus making and eating good food! They have recently purchased her husband’s family farm in Owatonna, which keeps them busy.

Dr. Anna Wildgrube, DVM, University Of Minnesota, 2008

Dr. Anna Wildgrube graduated from the Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota in 2008 and joined Heartland in 2014. Dr. Anna loves offering the best care, both preventative and treatments, for their beloved family members. She loves the connection with the patients, both in the clinic and on the farms.

In her free time, Dr. Anna enjoys hanging out with her family. Horses and trail riding. Watching baseball and ice hockey.

Dr. Jill Butkovich, DVM, Kansas State University, 1992

Dr. Jill joined our team in 2014 and comes to Heartland with a wealth of veterinary experience after practicing in South Dakota for 20 years. She received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Kansas State University in 1992. Dr. Jill enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine and has a special interest in internal medicine and soft tissue surgery.

She is an active member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association. Outside of her profession, Dr Jill enjoys spending time with her husband. They enjoy play time with their adopted cat, kayaking and lure coursing with their dogs in the summer.