Meet Our Team

Gayle MacKenzie

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

   Owner of Kipling Veterinary Hospital and Wellness Center

D.V.M., M.S. Colorado State University – Fort Collins, Colorado
B.S. Highlands University – Las Vegas, New Mexico

     Dr. Gayle MacKenzie received her veterinary training at Colorado State University in Ft. Collins. Her Master of Science was in physiology and her undergraduate work encompassed animal behavior and psychology.

     She was born in Albuquerque, NM and at a very young age knew she would become either a veterinarian or an Olympic ice skater. One of those goals was realized. After practicing in Broomfield, CO for 6 years as an associate veterinarian, Gayle purchased the West Jewell Veterinary Hospital in Lakewood, CO. In 2001 she founded her dream hospital, The Kipling Veterinary Hospital and Wellness Center.

     Gayle and her husband Bill Logan, a fisheries scientist and co-owner of Aqua Sierra Fisheries Consultants, live in the mountains of Morrison, CO. They enjoy their beautiful cats, horses, the fresh air, rollerblading, yoga, biking and much more. Her nickname is Dr. Cat (not to say she does not love dogs too, SHE DOES!)

Jill O’Connell

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

D.V.M. Iowa State University, Ames, IA
B.S. Montana State University, Bozeman, MT

     Dr. Jill O’Connell is originally from Great Falls, Montana.  She completed her undergraduate studies at Montana State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, and Fish and Wildlife Management.  Jill obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at Iowa State University.

     She moved to Colorado marrying Jimmy O’Connell.  Dr. O’Connell has been with the Kipling Veterinary Hospital and Wellness Center since 2001.

     Jill says, “I love being a veterinarian and getting to know and care for my patients and their families.  I am so appreciative of my clients allowing me to be a big part of their special furry babies’ health care over the years.  I stay busy when I’m not at work spending time with my 2 boys, Mikey, and Sean, watching their track meets, baseball games, and marching band competitions.  I also have 2 dogs, Baxter, and Ollie, who I love dearly.  In my spare time I enjoy travelling, hiking, camping, paddle boarding, and boating.

Lisa Shaffer

Office Manager

     Lisa is a native to Colorado and grew up in the Lakewood area.  Lisa has been with Kipling Veterinary Hospital and Wellness Center for many years and cannot imagine being anywhere else.  She loves animals and loves helping them.

     She is married and has four adult children, all married with families of their own.  Between the four she has ten amazing grandchildren.

     On her time off she and her husband enjoy spending time with family and friends, taking the grandkids camping, paddle boarding, kayaking and hiking.   Their dogs Nova and Chloe are a part of their family and enjoy walks (Chloe has her own doggie stroller) and hanging out with everyone.

Daniela Perez

Veterinary Technician

Graduated Pima Medical Institute, Aurora, Colorado

     Daniela’s family originally came from Mexico City, and she has lived in Colorado for most of her life.  She is a graduate of Pima Medical Institute.

     She is proud of her Hispanic heritage and notes that “I am the first generation to Graduate college”. My hobbies are soccer, hiking, singing, drawing and photography.  I’ve loved animals ever since I can remember!  I own 3 red-eared slider reptiles and hopefully soon will adopt or rescue a fur pup.”

     Daniela is Head kennel Technician at Kipling Veterinary Hospital and Wellness Center and is training to be a Veterinary Assistant.  She enjoys seeing every pet coming in and leaving this place with a happy tail.  Daniela spends her time throughout the hospital whether it’s answering phones, bathing a pet, restraining for a radiology image, or playing with our boarder patients in the backyard!  “The importance of keeping your pet safe and happy is my top priority here at KVH.  We are a staff with hearts that never stray.”

Alex Peneta

Kennel Manager

     Originally from Houston Texas. Alex moved to Denver to enjoy the opportunities and wonderful nature in Colorado.  He enjoys the mountains and wildlife. Also, his passion for concerts, and the food have made Colorado his home!

     Alex assures that your furry family members are safe and comfortable when they stay over at Kipling Veterinary Hospital and Wellness Center!

Nicki McIntosh

Head Receptionist

     Nicci is head of reception at Kipling Veterinary Hospital and Wellness Center. She is a native of Colorado and before working here she was a client for over 20 years. She is married and raised her two sons in the Green Mountain area. Her past work for over 30 years was with the University of Colorado, in Bouler, working in Housing and Finance.

     Nicci has rescued and raised cats and dogs and fell in love with Golden Retrievers. Her dog Bear is pictured at home with Nicci She loves to travel, water ski, makes quilts and loves spending time with her grandchildren.

Our newest employee!

This Could Be You

Credentials

     If you believe you will enhance our practice, be a team member, and love animals, please apply at Kipling Veterinary Hospital and Wellness Center.