!Header Buttons Right Side

Let’s Talk! 952-890-3730

Our Careteam

Your pet’s emotional and physical well-being is prioritized with every visit. We put the patients first!

Amanda

Amanda

Certified Veterinary Technician

Growing up on a crop farm in Hutchinson, MN, Amanda always knew she wanted to one day work with animals. Her initial goal was to become a vet, however, after shadowing during high school, she discovered that the technical side of things would be a better fit, as it would allow her to be more hands-on with the animals. As a CVT here at River Ridge, Amanda loves being able to serve our clients and help our patients in any way she can!

After graduating from North Dakota State University, Amanda landed her first job in Prior Lake. A year or so later, in March of 2013, she joined the River Ridge Pet Clinic team and has been here ever since. One of the things she loves most about working here is how small and family-like the practice is. This makes it easier to get to know the clients and their pets on a more personal basis, which makes for better overall service and care.

Outside of the clinic, Amanda is married with a young son named Carter. The family has two cats, Sophie and Gus, both of whom know how to roll on their backs in exchange for treats. When she’s not busy caring for Carter, Amanda enjoys crafting – particularly making cards, vinyl decals and wooden signs.

Alyssa

Alyssa

Veterinary Technician

Alyssa grew up idolizing her older sister, who is a nurse. While she felt a pull to follow in her sister’s footsteps, she also knew that it wasn’t human patients she preferred to work with, but rather those of the four-legged variety. As a veterinary technician, Alyssa gets to experience the best of both worlds, helping animals while also helping their humans. It’s a win-win!

Alyssa started her journey at Minnesota School of Business, followed by an internship here at River Ridge Pet Clinic. Upon graduation in 2015, she was offered a full-time job at RRPC and she immediately jumped at the chance! The thing Alyssa loves most about being a vet tech is the diversity of the role. At any given moment, she could go from being a dental hygienist to a nurse to a surgical assistant to a shoulder for owners to lean on. Most importantly, she loves being a best friend to our furry patients.

Outside of the clinic, Alyssa shares her life with her soon-to-be husband and their Tuxedo cat named Minnie. Always one to keep her owners on their toes, Minnie loves to play fetch, snuggle, and hide around corners, from which she frequently jumps out and scares them.

In her spare time, Alyssa enjoys hiking and traveling. Her goal is to visit every state in the US and every national park.

Rilea

Rilea

Veterinary Assistant

As a child, Rilea always had a special connection with animals. When her beloved childhood dog crossed over the Rainbow Bridge as she held him in her arms, Rilea vowed right then and there to dedicate her life to ensuring that all animals felt loved and cared for. As a veterinary assistant, she’s been able to make that dream a reality, helping pets each and every day live their very best lives.

Before joining the River Ridge team, Rilea had spent a year and a half working at another clinic. There, she gained valuable experience. In the beginning of summer 2022, Rilea stumbled across an opening at RRPC and felt compelled to apply. She couldn’t be happier working here, and the strong connections she’s made with her colleagues, clients and patients is proof of that.

At home, Rilea has two fur-babies of her own: Stormy and Goose. Stormy, her very first cat, really opened Rilea’s eyes to how much love felines have to give, and how unique their personalities truly are. Goose was the second kitty to join the family. He is a bundle of energy and always puts a smile on Rilea’s face.

In her free time, Rilea can often be found in the kitchen, baking cookies or banana bread. She also enjoys exploring the Northshore and spending quality time with her family.

Cassidy

Cassidy

Receptionist

Animals have always played a central role in Cassidy’s life. Growing up, her family worked with a local rescue organization. Seeing all the precious souls who needed her family’s help and working hard to win their trust instilled a passion within Cassidy that still burns to this day. As one of the receptionists here at RRPC, Cassidy’s friendly face and welcoming nature set the stage for a positive patient experience.

Cassidy’s journey into the animal care world began at a doggie daycare, where she developed some invaluable skills before moving on to an urgent care veterinary hospital in Prior Lake. During the fall of 2022, Cassidy relocated from Colorado back to Minnesota to be closer to family. Shortly thereafter, she joined the River Ridge Pet Clinic team, and the rest is history!

Outside of the clinic, Cassidy is ‘Mom’ to a Boston Terrier / Staffordshire Terrier mix named Paisley. She is very sweet, but scared of the silliest things. Having been through a lot together, Cassidy can confidently say the two have become the best of friends.

When she’s not busy at work or hanging out with Paisley and her family, Cassidy enjoys reading, watching Marvel movies, and spending time outdoors. Her favorite outdoor activity is paddleboarding.

“One small cat changes coming home to an empty house to coming home.”

 – Pam Brown