Meet Our Veterinary Team

Christa Williams

BA (Carleton College)
DVM (University of MN)
Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (Canine and Feline Practice)
Low-Stress Handling Certified
Certified Cat-Friendly Veterinarian
Dare to Lead Trained

I grew up in Michigan but came to call the Twin Cities home after graduating from Carleton College with a B.A. in Religious Studies in 1992. After a year or two of post-graduate soul-searching, I realized I wanted to pursue my childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian. I spent the next several years fulfilling the pre-vet math and science requirements, and in 1997 I was accepted to the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota; I can still remember running all over my house waving the acceptance letter in the air!

I received my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 2001 and have spent the last two decades deepening my passion for my profession.

In order to delve more deeply into the science of my practice, in 2010, I completed the rigorous certification process to become a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. This organization is authorized by the American Veterinary Medical Association to confer “Specialist” status on General Practitioners who successfully complete the certification process. Today I am one of a handful of veterinarians in Minnesota who have completed this process in the canine/feline category. (https://abvp.com/animal-owners/why-choose-an-abvp-specialist/)

As a clinician, I have a special passion for veterinary dentistry—there are few things more satisfying than making a patient’s infected, painful mouth healthy and comfortable. I also enjoy helping clients with geriatric pets manage chronic diseases to maximize their quality of life.

I started Caravan Vet to provide exceptional veterinary care in a way that would minimize stress for my patients and maximize my ability to connect with my clients. I love helping people take the best possible care of their beloved family members.

When I am not seeing patients, I love working out, reading, and cooking elaborate vegan meals. I currently share my life with two cats- Wander Lee and Frida. It is an honor and a privilege to be a veterinarian, and I am sincerely grateful for the trust that my clients place in me every day.

Elizabeth Parks

BA (Colby College)
DVM (University of MN)
A Time to Heal Course in TCM and Herbal Therapies (140 Hours)
Low-Stress Handling Certified
Certified Cat-Friendly Veterinarian
Dare to Lead Trained

Originally from Los Angeles, I now call Minneapolis my home. Sula, my three-legged cat, and I moved to the Twin Cities in 2010, so I could attend the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. After graduating with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2014, I leaped at the opportunity to practice in South Minneapolis at a neighborhood dog and cat veterinary practice. That rewarding experience shaped my future professional goals and belief in the practice philosophy of Caravan Vet. I believe it is essential to provide high-quality veterinary services to dogs and cats who find car rides to the vet and other animals at the clinic stressful. I love being part of a practice where the animals are more at ease when receiving care. I also recognize that not everyone can transport their pet to a veterinary clinic. Caring for all pets, regardless of their human companion’s access or ableism, cannot be taken lightly.

My areas of interest continue to evolve through experience and staying current on research. I love developing care plans for senior dogs and cats in pain. It warms my heart to receive a phone call or email from a client that their pet is moving more efficiently.

Additionally, I have extensive experience treating gastrointestinal dysfunctions and formulating nutrition plans for weight loss and sick pets. My interest in dermatology stems from excellent mentors; many dogs and cats experience skin imbalances. Resolving skin infections and the itch sensation relieves both the patient and the client. I also enjoy the challenge of providing veterinary care for animals with chronic diseases.

I’ve loved making Minneapolis my home, both professionally and personally. I now find the robust four seasons, including the serenity of a snow-covered city in the winter, the leaves dramatically changing color in the fall, and the endless possibilities of the spring, energizing and comforting. In 2018, Sula sadly passed away too soon, and three weeks later, my child Juna was born, deepening my joy and awe in the seasons of life. My family also includes a Corgi-German Shepherd mix, Tinker, who came from the Standing Rock Reservation, where I did volunteer veterinary work as a student.

I enjoy planting and gardening in my spare time to support the bird, bee, and butterfly populations at our South Minneapolis home. Creating a spiral herb garden using permaculture principles has enhanced many of our meals. Bird watching and getting to know the winged creatures I share space with are also important to me. I find meaning as an active member of my neighborhood community. Empty Bowls is one example of an event I look forward to each year. Empty Bowls is an international project by neighborhoods organized by local artists to raise money for hunger in our communities.

Alexis P.

 B.A in Cultural Anthropology from Humboldt State University
A.A.S from Bellingham Technical College
Certified Veterinary Technician
Low-Stress Handling Certified

Like most of my colleagues, I grew up with a love of animals, which was fostered by my mother. She worked at several different Humane Societies in San Diego and was also a dog trainer. We tended to end up with the “unadoptable” pets — from a deaf Australian cattle dog to a one-legged canary named Peggy Ilene. Our house was always full of critters. In my early adulthood, I helped foster very sick kittens, which was both very rewarding as well as heart wrenching at times.

I went to Humboldt State University and got a degree in Cultural Anthropology. From there, I worked on different small farms in Northern California, Maine, and Washington. Working on farms, I discovered that sheep are amazing creatures and don’t get enough love. My dream is to have a small flock of sheep and a pear orchard.

It was working on a farm that I decided to go back to school and get a veterinary technician degree from Bellingham Technical College. While going to school, I worked as a veterinary assistant at a mixed large and small animal practice, where I not only got to work with dogs and cats, but also helped out with taking x-rays of horse legs. Once I became licensed, I worked briefly at a small animal practice in Ferndale, WA, before making the decision to move to Minnesota.

When I’m not working, I enjoy reading, nature walks, and hanging out with my cats.

Michele T.

A.A.S Veterinary Technology (Argosy College)
Certified Veterinary Technician
Low-Stress Handling Certified
Certified Cat-Friendly Veterinary Professional
Dare to Lead Trained

I was the child always trying to bring home any animal I found. We had cats in my younger years, but then it was discovered that my sister was allergic to them. Watching someone who answered the ad for a “free cat” in the local paper take my cat away was the worst day of my life at six years old. I then had to settle for rabbits and guinea pigs as my furry companions, but I realized they made great pets!! I even took to showing them at the county fair. You can see some of my blue ribbons on display in our garage. My sister eventually outgrew her allergy, and we adopted cats while I was in high school. I still wasn’t convinced that animals should be part of my future career, so I headed off to the University of Minnesota – Duluth, where I changed my major about 12 times. I then transferred to Argosy University and obtained an A.A.S. in Veterinary Technology. After many long hours of studying, I successfully passed the certification exam in 2005.

I thoroughly enjoy meeting all the new puppies and kittens our clients add to their families. I am particularly interested in dentistry and cats, especially cats with behavior issues and those in their golden years of life.

My husband and I recently adopted two of the cutest little kittens, Mallory and Stephanie Tanner. We look forward to watching them grow and become the best lap warmers. So far, they are keeping us and each other very entertained!! They have some big paws to fill, as we lost our first two cats in the last couple of years.

When not working, I enjoy reading, taking walks with my husband, traveling the Caribbean, and running in local road races.

Kari M.

B.A. Psychology (UW Eau Claire)
Low-Stress Handling Certified
Certified Cat-Friendly Veterinary Professional
Dare to Lead Trained

I was that kid who always tried to bring home animals, from abandoned birds and bunnies to stray cats. I did everything from begging my parents to keep them to sneaking them in (I was always caught). I never thought of a career in the veterinary field until after obtaining my Psychology and Communications degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. I spent a couple of years working for a temp agency while I tried to figure out what I wanted to do. A job opening at a vet clinic was my answer, and I spent 12 years there as a client services representative before joining the team at Caravan Vet. I love communicating with clients and ensuring all their (and their 4- legged friends) needs are met.

I have two dogs; Holly is a Longhair Dachshund with back issues; she runs like a rabbit and will still jump on everything, even when we tell her no. Archie is a Beagle/Dachshund mix who loves to give hugs and always has a toy in his mouth when he greets you. I also have one cat, Hef, who thinks he’s a dog; when he’s not snuggling with Holly or chasing Archie, you’ll find him in front of the nearest vent, either warming up or cooling off.

My husband Bill and I are huge Disney fans; we’re always planning our next trip to Disneyworld or our next Disney Cruise. I also enjoy reading books, watching movies, and spending time with friends and family.

Natalie H.

Currently enrolled in Veterinary Technology A.A.S. Degree program
Low-Stress Handling Certified
Certified Cat-Friendly Veterinary Professional

I grew up in the scenic town of Osceola, WI. Early on, my family always knew a career for me was meant to be with animals, as most of my summers were spent at my grandparent’s farm cuddling kittens, riding horses, and running with the dogs. I was naturally drawn to all animals; in return, they gave me a sense of purpose.

My experience working with animals began at my grandma’s farm, training horses, and continued at an animal sanctuary in Star Prairie, WI. There, I especially loved caring for the paraplegic dogs, doing water therapy and cart exercises with such high-spirited souls.

After moving to Minneapolis in 2017, I began working at a corporate clinic where I gained technical skills with animals; however, I did not feel satisfied in fulfilling my ‘purpose’ until I started my career at Caravan Vet.

Working with animals today, I enjoy communicating with clients about their pets’ care, helping to ensure a positive and healthy environment for all! Doing so wouldn’t be possible without the excellent veterinarians, vet techs, and animal caretakers I have met throughout the years who have taught me so much and inspired me to keep learning more. The next part of my animal care journey is to become a Certified Veterinary Technician.

When not at work, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my partner, Mark, and our two cats, George and Scarlett. Our cats are very important family members, although we occasionally leave them to snowboard in the mountains or hike through the desert. At home, we also care for various tropical plants and saltwater tanks with a unique fish crew that keeps us entertained.

Abby B.

Currently enrolled in Honors B.S. in Wildlife Conservation at the University of MN
Low-Stress Handling Certified
Certified Cat-Friendly Veterinary Professional

It seems like I always knew I would be working with animals somehow. As a kid, I loved researching different pets, even going as far as making PowerPoint presentations to convince my parents to let me get one. My presentation skills must have been practical because our house was always filled with various pets, from dogs and Guinea Pigs to snakes and geckos! I take pride in providing the best care for all my pets, and I love learning new ways to do so, even if it is something as bizarre as giving a frog a honey massage – which I have done.

Our house is still a bit of a zoo. My family has two dogs: Nellie, a yellow lab, and Winter, a German Shorthair Pointer, as well as a ferret named Frank and a corn snake named Luna. I am incredibly grateful to be working at Caravan Vet, continuing to learn everything I can about animal care. Every day I learn something new from the members of Team Amazing and the unique and beautiful animals we care for.

Outside of work, I enjoy hanging out with my family at our cabin up North, cooking and baking, and thrift shopping. I am very passionate about sustainability and conservation and do my best to incorporate it into everything I do; always on the hunt for environmentally friendly alternatives and ways to protect our wildlife.

Allie O.

Currently enrolled in Veterinary Technology A.A.S. Degree program
Low-Stress Handling Certified
Certified Cat-Friendly Veterinary Professional

As a young child, I always told my family I would grow up as an “animal nurse.” We always had animals, from dogs and cats to many rats and even a leopard gecko! My career with animals started when I turned 17, working at a dog daycare/boarding facility and working my way up from a kennel attendant to an assistant manager in 3 years. I even rescued a beautiful 11-year-old Great Dane named Jade, who was abandoned at the daycare in 2020. After six amazing months, and just after her 12th birthday, Jade died from cancer. After she passed, I became very passionate about advocating for senior dog adoption and senior dog care.

Starting my career with Caravan Vet, I am amazed daily at the compassion and knowledge Team Amazing shares. I love learning new things, seeing parts of the Twin Cities I haven’t seen, and helping to care for all the wonderful patients we see!

I am excited to start my journey toward becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician this fall. When I am not working, I enjoy cooking vegetarian meals with my fiancé and playing a game of tug-o-war with my mom’s dogs Minnie the Mastiff and Sassy the Schnauzer/Miniature Pinscher mix. I also enjoy watching movies with my fiancé and housemates, with our cat Pumpkin perched on the couch behind us.

Cassie P.

B.S. Animal Science (University of MN)
Low-Stress Handling Certified
Certified Cat-Friendly Veterinary Professional

Growing up, I always felt a special connection with animals and knew that someday I would choose a career working with them. Anytime there was an animal around, I was more interested in them than anything else. My passion for pets began with our first family cat, who would walk my siblings and me to the bus stop every morning and taught me about the strong bonds that develop between people and animals. Our family dog taught me patience and unconditional love. I currently live with three wonderful cats who guide me through things daily, as well as provide endless cuddles, laughs, and a little mischief.

I completed my Bachelor of Science in Animal Science at the University of Minnesota in May 2020. I am passionate about animal behavior and helping our patients to be as happy and comfortable as possible. I am incredibly grateful to be on the Caravan Vet team, where I am learning so much about companion animal medical care and the connection between health and behavior. I look forward to continuing my journey with Team Amazing and learning more each day from our skilled and dedicated doctors, technicians, and especially the animals we care for.

Hailey B.

I’ve always been a person with a million interests and hobbies, ever-changing and always trying new things. One interest that has always been consistent for me is animals. As a little kid, I remember watching endless hours of Animal Planet, and whenever I would play outside, I would end up coming home with a new “pet” (be it a lizard, toad, or stray cat). Big or small, common or exotic, I loved to learn about all the many creatures around the world. I have carried that love for animals throughout my life, and I couldn’t imagine working in any other field.

I started my first job as a pet-sitter at just 9 years old with a Pug named Nigel. Nigel was my favorite next-door neighbor, and his mom paid me to care for him whenever she went out of town. Later in life, I was able to gain many useful skills working at a doggy daycare and grooming facility as a receptionist. Then I found Team Amazing at Caravan Vet. This team proves to be a wealth of knowledge and compassion, and I am so excited to be a part of it.

In my free time, I am a jack-of-all-trades kind of artist. I love to paint, draw, sculpt, craft, sew; you name it. I also love to read, collect antiques, and spend time outdoors, rock-hounding and exploring. I have an aloof cat named Kitter and a Ball Python named Zeke. My favorite house pet is a Cat, my favorite backyard animal is a Possum, my favorite exotic is a Wombat, and my favorite extinct animal is a Giant Sloth (ask me about their contribution to the evolution and cultivation of Avocados).