Meet Our Team
David M. ElsomVeterinarian
Dr. Elsom graduated from Kansas State College of Veterinary Medicine. He owned a veterinary practice in Mobridge, SD for 12 years before buying Spearfish Animal Hospital in 1999. In August 2008 he opened Cremations at Lone Tree - an animal cremation facility. In April 2018 he opened Paws & Relax - a dog boarding and play-care facility. His care and patience with animals is apparent in all he does.
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Jackie MartinVeterinarian
Dr. Martin graduated from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine and practiced in Iowa for several years before relocating to Spearfish.
Dr. Jackie enjoys general medicine, surgery, acupuncture and working with hobby farm animals. In her spare time you will find her exploring the hills with her boxers Elmer and Elna. |
Melanie GarbelVeterinarian
Originally from St. Louis, Dr. Melanie Garbel moved to the Black Hills 8 years ago after graduating from the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She met her husband in vet school; he is a large animal veterinarian in the area. Together they have a daughter who also loves animals!
Dr. Garbel takes an interest in dermatology and preventative care, but her niche is in orthopedics; specifically fracture repairs and TPLOs. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, spending time with family and exploring the Black Hills. |
StephVeterinary Technician / Bookkeeper
Steph started her career in veterinary emergency medicine and oncology while going to school in Seattle, WA. After graduating as a Veterinary Technician she moved back to the Black Hills in 2010 and joined Spearfish Animal Hospital.
Steph enjoys time with her family of one husband, two toddlers, two dogs and one cat, being out in nature, flower gardening, the winter weather and the outdoor activities that come with it. |
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LexiVeterinary Assistant
Lexi has always been passionate about animals and what better way to fulfill this passion than by working at SAH! She graduated from SDSU with degrees in animal science and wildlife and fisheries sciences. In her free time she enjoys documenting her dogs' every waking moment, spending time outside and painting.
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BrookeVeterinary Assistant
Coming soon!
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RachaelVeterinary Technician
Rachael is our relief technician; you may see her when one of our technicians is on vacation or we need extra help. She graduated in 2002 in Michigan and started working at Spearfish Animal Hospital in 2005.
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JodiReceptionist
Coming soon!
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SherylGroomer
Sheryl started as a groomer's assistant and has blossomed into a very talented groomer herself. Her always positive attitude, calm demeanor and patience helps keep our clients comfortable while they're in for their spa days.
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LucyGrooming Assistant
Lucy is a retired teacher from Custer who relocated to the Spearfish area. She loves the outdoors, people and especially, animals.
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ScurvyKennel Attendant
Preferably known only by his nickname "Scurvy," he has been with SAH since 2013 and keeps a close watch on our kennel visitors during evenings. He's always willing to lend a helping hand where he needs to and always checks in with our technicians whenever he has a concern after hours. And don't forget the comedic relief he provides!
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ChachiPresident of
Spearfish Animal Hospital 
Chachi enjoys calling us to him for affection and then acting annoyed, insisting we turn on the faucet for him to drink fresh water and taunting dogs.
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DestynKennel Attendant
Coming soon!
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