Dr. Brandy, a Chehalis native and W.F West and Centralia College graduate, earned her veterinary degree from Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2007. Following an eleven-year tenure at Centralia-Chehalis Veterinary Hospital, she fulfilled her lifelong aspiration by establishing River Bend Pet Center and Newaukum Valley Veterinary Services. Dr. Brandy finds fulfillment in all aspects of companion animal medicine and cherishes the enduring bonds she has forged with her clients while tending to their beloved pets. Additionally, she proudly collaborates with Police K9 Units throughout Washington State teaching first aid to handlers and providing them veterinary care. Outside her practice, Dr. Brandy enjoys spending time with her kiddos, hanging out with her Sphynx cats, driving her 1966 Mustang “Kimber” and on occasion you can catch her sitting on a tropical beach somewhere.
Megan joined the Newaukum Valley Veterinary family back in the calm, peaceful days of February 2020… you know, right before the world fell apart. As soon as she got settled in, BOOM — COVID hit. Cue the masks, rules, sanitizers, and an exciting game of “What fresh chaos awaits us today?” But Megan didn’t flinch. With a background in veterinary medicine since 2015 and experience in everything from receptionist to hospital manager, she’s seen it all (and probably cleaned it up, too).
Fast forward through the madness, and as the world started returning to “normal” (whatever that is), Megan added another title to her resume — boy mom of two. Her youngest, Hudson, joined big brother Ryder, a multi-sport tornado of energy who ensures Megan never spends a weekend relaxing. And honestly? She wouldn’t trade the beautiful chaos for anything.
Happily married, she currently shares her life with 3 dogs, 2 cats, and a suspicious amount of caffeine.
When maternity leave rolled around, the amazing Dr. Brandy saw Megan’s magic and made the genius move to keep her on remotely. These days, Megan is the wizard behind the curtain — answering your emails, running the app, managing social media, crafting witty marketing, and generally making things happen while in sweatpants (because yes, that’s the dream). She’s Dr. Brandy’s right hand, problem-solver, planner, and professional plate-spinner — all from the comfort of her home surrounded by snacks and snuggles.
Marissa Larson is the Practice Manager at Newaukum Valley Veterinary Services—and unofficial zookeeper of her own personal animal kingdom. With one human child and nine fur babies at home, managing a busy veterinary clinic is somehow the less chaotic part of her day.
Known for her multitasking magic, Marissa keeps the clinic running like a well-oiled machine (most days), all while sneaking snuggles from every patient who’ll allow it. She’s passionate about creating a positive, supportive space for both pets and people, and she’s never too busy to swoon over a squishy puppy face or a grumpy senior cat.
When she’s not managing schedules, calming anxious clients, or refereeing staff debates over which animal is cutest, Marissa enjoys binge-watching true crime shows, strong coffee, and attempting to sit down before someone yells her name.
She firmly believes that animals are family—and that life’s just better with muddy paw prints on the floor and nose boops on the windows.
Hi, I’m Taylor — the chaos coordinator behind the scenes (aka Back of House Lead) here at the clinic. I’ve been part of this amazing team since 2022 and am currently working toward my Veterinary Technician License. I live for the organized madness that is vet med — blood, fur, paperwork, and all.
When I’m not wrangling schedules, assisting with procedures, or finding lost stethoscopes, I’m at home with my wild and wonderful crew: a towering Great Dane named Lincoln, a two-legged warrior pup named Lt. Dan (yes, like that Lt. Dan — we call her Dani), and six cats who all act like they run the place (because they do). I’m also a proud aquarium nerd — if it swims, I love it.
In 2023, I married my high school sweetheart, and we just welcomed our baby girl, Spencer — the newest tiny member of the animal chaos club. Music is always playing in my world — usually some punk rock or country, especially anything by Zach Bryan.
Vet med is tough, but it’s also the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. I truly love my job — even on the messy, loud, unpredictable days. And yes, I’ve accepted that animal fur is just part of my wardrobe now.
Daisy has been a valued member of our team since 2019, serving in a versatile, all-around role that supports nearly every corner of the clinic. Whether assisting in appointments, surgery prep, or patient care, Daisy brings reliability, heart, and a deep love for animals to everything she does.
Originally from Texas, she’s embraced the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and all its outdoor adventures. When she’s not at the clinic, you can find her exploring the trails with her two German Shepherds, Luka and Lilah, or out riding her sport bike.
Daisy’s hands-on experience and dedication make her a vital part of our team—and a trusted face to both clients and their pets.
Autumn joined our team in 2022 and quickly became a friendly and dependable presence in the clinic. As a veterinary assistant, she’s passionate about providing attentive care to every patient and supporting the team wherever she’s needed.
Outside of work, Autumn loves spending time with friends and family, especially her beloved German Shepherd, Moose—who she proudly calls the light of her life. A fan of country music and outdoor adventures, she’s happiest hiking a trail, enjoying good company, and living in the moment.
Originally from Michigan, Chloe made her way back to Washington and quickly found her passion working with animals. She began her journey in veterinary care at the front desk as a receptionist in 2023, and her dedication, curiosity, and love for animals soon led her to transition into a hands-on role in the back of house as a veterinary assistant.
Chloe grew up surrounded by rescue animals, which sparked her deep compassion for all creatures and a strong desire to help them live happy, healthy lives. She’s known for her upbeat attitude, quick adaptability, and willingness to jump in wherever help is needed—whether assisting with treatments or comforting patients—usually with an energy drink close by!
When she’s not at the clinic, Chloe enjoys relaxing at home or hanging out with friends and family. She stays busy with her two energetic fur babies: Butters, an Akita (Alaskan Malamute) mix, and Raya, a Husky mix. Both are three years old and full of personality, keeping her constantly entertained with equal parts playfulness and sass.
Chloe’s positive attitude, dedication, and genuine care for animals make her an essential part of the team.
Hey, I’m someone who loves to read about history, get out on the water in my kayak, and hang out with my kitten, Princess Diana (she’s got a big name and an even bigger personality).
I’ve been working here since July 2024, mostly helping monitor surgeries, and I honestly love what I do. It’s super rewarding being part of a team that helps animals every day.
When I’m not at work, I’m usually cooking something new, reading, or just enjoying some quiet time. I’m pretty laid back, but I’m always down for good food, good people, and a good book
Meet Elliot – Animal Lover, Thrift King, and Snake Whisperer
A proud Pacific Northwest native and Chehalis local since the age of 14, Elliot brings a whole lot of heart (and probably a killer thrifted jacket) to the clinic. With a deep passion for patient care and a belief that a strong team can handle anything—including Monday mornings—he’s been a valued part of the crew from day one.
Growing up in a big, loud, and loving household, Elliot knows a thing or two about compassion, connection, and how to make space at the dinner table for “just one more.” Outside the clinic, you’ll find him designing clothes with serious style, hunting down vintage treasures, or hanging out with his animal trio: Bonnie the loyal dog, Bubbles the cat with main character energy, and Ivory, a five-foot-long ball python who’s cooler than all of us.
Creative, caring, and always ready with a quick comeback, Elliot’s the kind of guy who makes the workplace better—one laugh, outfit, or snake fact at a time.
With a smile that instantly puts people at ease, Amy is one of the first friendly faces you’ll see when you walk through our doors. She has a natural gift for making both pets and their people feel welcome, and she brings a calm, caring energy to every interaction. Whether she’s helping a nervous new pet parent or juggling a busy lobby with grace, Amy is the kind of teammate every clinic hopes to have.
Outside of work, Amy’s world is full—she’s the proud mom of three boys (ages 8, 14, and 28) who keep her on her toes and fill her life with laughter. At home, she shares her heart (and probably her couch) with two cats, Bagheera and Tipsy, and Max, her sweet senior Yorkie who rules the house. Amy’s deep love for animals isn’t just part of her job—it’s a part of who she is.
Kayla is one of the friendly voices you’ll hear when you call our clinic. As a key member of our phone room team, she’s dedicated to helping clients schedule appointments, answer questions, and make sure every pet gets the care they need—all with kindness and efficiency.
She shares her home with two beloved cats, Noodle and Junior, who keep her entertained with their antics. Outside of work, Kayla loves spending time with her partner, playing video games, diving into nerdy fandoms, and creating art. She’s also a big fan of fun facts—don’t be surprised if she has a quirky bit of trivia to brighten your day!
Niki is one of the friendly voices behind the phone, working behind the scenes to keep our schedule running smoothly and make sure our clients get the care they need—when they need it. Whether she’s booking appointments, answering questions, or offering reassurance during a tough moment, Niki’s calm and helpful demeanor makes a big difference for both pets and their people.
Outside the clinic, Niki enjoys spending time with her husband and their three high-energy dogs—Ruby, Max, and Luna—who keep things lively at home. When she’s not wrangling dogs or supporting her family, you’ll likely find her building Legos with her husband or getting lost in a good book. Quietly dependable and always kind, Niki brings heart to every part of her work.
Delaney can normally be found at the front desk with a smile on her face, always happy to help. Born and raised in Centralia, Delaney originally studied at CWU to be a choir director before discovering a passion not only for animals, but for customer service as well. She is also an avid sports fan, but knows to never get her hopes too high for her beloved Seattle Mariners and Carolina Panthers. Happily engaged, Delaney and her partner Briar are mothers to four beautiful and mischievous kitties: Eleanor, Charlie, Quincy, and Jo.
Ashley has lived in Chehalis most of her life and shares her home with her boyfriend and their two black cats, Raven and Griffin, along with a variety of reptiles—including snakes, geckos, and tarantulas—and a few fish tanks. She is fascinated by all animals, their behaviors, their unique needs, and what makes each one special. Ashley takes pride in her large collection of houseplants, rocks, and trinkets of all varieties and rarities. In her free time, she enjoys gaming, spending time with her pets, and tending to her plants.