Meet Our Team

Meet Our Veterinarians

E.C. Godfrey, DVM

Education: Auburn School of Veterinary Medicine

Dr. Ernest Godfrey decided to become a veterinarian at the young age of 11. After graduation from high school, he attended the University of Florida to study for his pre-veterinary work. He went on to receive his doctorate in veterinary medicine from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1968.

Dr. Godfrey settled in Pinellas County and opened Pinellas Animal Hospital in 1973 with the goal of serving companion animals in the Pinellas Park area. In 1990 he opened Seminole Boulevard Animal Hospital in Largo. Through dedication and the pursuance of continuing education, both he and his staff keep abreast of new advances in veterinary medicine.

Since graduation, Dr. Godfrey has been very active in both veterinary and community activities. He has served the Florida Veterinary Medical Association in many capacities, beginning in 1987 as Treasurer and as President in 1993 and 2005. He was recognized as FVMA Veterinarian of the Year in 1990 and as Pinellas County Veterinary Medical Society Veterinarian of the Year in 1992. He was also recognized by the FVMA with the Gold Star Award in 1980 and 1988.

Dr. Godfrey sits on the board of directors for the Florida Veterinarian Medical Association and the Central Florida Academy of Veterinary Medicine and on the FVMA Veterinary Technicians Committee. He also serves on the board of directors of the Pinellas Animal Foundation which focuses on educating the public about proper pet care. The Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine named him as 2010 Wilford S. Bailey Distinguished Alumni in honor of his contributions to animal welfare, the profession, and his community. In 2014 the FVMA gave Dr. Godfrey their Lifetime Achievement Award and he currently serves on the AVMA House of Delegates committee to better serve the veterinary community.

Dr. Godfrey and his lovely wife, Rossie, live in Seminole with their dog Sally, and three cats; Callie, Eric, and Gladys. During his very rare spare time, Dr. Godfrey enjoys spoiling his first grandchild, Kira.

David Elmer, DVM

Dr. David Elmer was born on a military base in Augsburg, Germany and was raised in St. Petersburg, Florida. After attending Northeast High School and he went on to the University of Florida to receive his undergraduate degree in Zoology. Dr. Elmer graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 1984. Needless to say, he is a staunch Gator fan.

Following graduation, Dr. Elmer joined Pinellas Animal Hospital in 1985. His hobbies include canoeing, camping, hiking and reading. He and his wife, Laurie reside in Seminole and share their home with their cat Frankie.

Mandy Wallen, DVM

Dr. Mandy Wallen was raised in Somers, Connecticut.  She attended Florida State University and received her B.S. in Biology.  Dr. Wallen continued her education at Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine.  She graduated in May 2004 and started her career at Pinellas Animal Hospital that June.

Dr. Wallen currently lives in Clearwater with her husband David, and their dog, Crunchy Crab, two cats Sam (aka Salmon) and Squid, and an African Spur-thigh tortoise Tino.  Dr. Wallen is an avid horseback rider, regularly competing in local shows jumping and eventing competitions, her hobbies include fishing, and working on home improvement projects and rock climbing.

Natalie Craven, DVM

Education: Auburn University

Dr. Natalie Craven graduated from Auburn University College of agriculture with an animal and dairy science pre-vet degree in 2009; then continued her education with Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine for her doctorate in 2013.

She moved to Tampa, Florida originally in 2013 and lived and practiced in Clearwater for four years before moving and working in a practice in Woodstock Georgia in 2017. After 11 months in Georgia she missed the sun and beaches of Florida and returned to Florida to work in June 2018 at Pinellas Animal Hospital.

Dr. Craven loves spending time out on the water on a boat, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding! She enjoy many of the attractions in St. Petersburg and Tampa and with the local area has to offer! She also enjoys spending time with her boyfriend Jacob, friends and family as much as she can!

Alex Alberdi, DVM

Dr. Alex Alberdi graduated from the University of Florida with a double major in Animal and Marine Sciences before continuing her education at the UF College of Veterinary Medicine for her doctorate degree in 2021. She is a proud double Gator.

Dr. Alberdi has lived in the Tampa Bay region her entire life, with multiple generations of her family scattered across the area. She currently lives in St. Petersburg with her husband and food obsessed sweet dog, Willi.

When not working at Pinellas Animal Hospital, Dr. Alberdi enjoys exercising, playing competitive sports, cooking, attending local concerts, supporting the local sports teams, spending time with friends and family and exploring the ever-expanding local culinary scene.

Mackenzie Spies, DVM

Dr. Mackenzie Spies attended the University of Florida, where she graduated with her
Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in May 2022.
Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, Dr Spies moved to Pinellas County after graduation to
pursue her profession in veterinary medicine. She joined our practice as an associate
veterinarian in September 2022.
Dr. Spies enjoys the outdoors and can be found exploring the many beautiful parks all around
Florida, taking in the wonders of nature with her own furry family member, Vinny, whose
favorite thing to do is taking long walks with his mom and enjoying quality time with her.
In her down time, Dr Spies can often be found relaxing with a good book in her hands or
cooking and is also an experienced Pickle ball player.

Zara Martinez, DVM

Dr. Zara Martinez graduated from Nova Southeastern University with dual degrees in Biology and Marine Biology. She earned her Master of Science in Conservation Medicine from the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, and in 2024, she completed her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University.
Originally from Pennsylvania, Dr. Martinez relocated to Florida in June 2024 with her cat, Ren. Her passion for animals and medicine developed during her college years, leading her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. She finds fulfillment in helping animals and educating people. Dr. Martinez is also deeply committed to the One Health approach, addressing critical issues that impact animals, humans, and the environment.
In her free time, Dr. Martinez enjoys reading and outdoor activities such as beach outings, hiking, and kayaking.

Meet Our Staff

Clinic Managers

Kelci B.

A native of Illinois, Kelci graduated from the Veterinary Technology Institute at Fox College in Tinley Park in 2014 and joined our team in August 2015. She was one of our team’s Lead Technicians and has moved up to practice manager in April 2023.  Kelci has a strong passion for nursing care and performing oral health procedures. When Kelci is not working you can find her biking, hiking, paddle boarding or just relaxing on the beach.

Will G.

Dr. Godfrey’s eldest son Will, grew up in the St. Petersburg area and attended the University of South Florida after graduating from Seminole High School. Always having an affection for animals, he began working for Pinellas Animal Hospital in July of 2012. Will enjoys the music scene, going to see live bands, and spending time at the beach.

Veterinary Technicians

Walt G.

Walt Godfrey was born and raised in the St. Pete area. His love of animals began as a young child. He started working at Pinellas Animal Hospital in 2006 and realized he had found his calling. He is grateful every day to help animals in need and give them the best care possible.

Jana S., CVT

Jana joined us in May 2007 as a student from St. Petersburg College and became a permanent member of staff two months later. Jana was born in Liberec, Czechoslovakia and immigrated to the Pinellas County area in 1990, along with the rest of her family.

Jana met husband, Matt, while in middle school and they now own a home in Pinellas Park, where they put all their free time and energy into raising their little boy, Gabriel.

Sara K., CVT

Sara made the move to Pinellas County from her home in North Carolina in July 2017. After graduating from college with her BS degree in Biology, she made the decision to change her career path and focus to become a Certified Veterinary Technician. She graduated from St. Petersburg College with a degree in Veterinary Technology in 2019.

Sara enjoys snorkeling, kayaking and spending time at the beach with her husband, John. They share their home with 4 rescue fur children, two cats and two dogs.

Maryann W., CVT

Maryann began working for Dr. Godfrey at our sister hospital, Seminole Blvd. Animal Hospital in August of 1998. In 2010, after attending St Petersburg College, Maryann graduated with her AA and AS in Veterinary Technology.  After transferring to Pinellas Animal Hospital in April of 2020 she now takes on the role of CVT and Social Media Coordinator.  Maryann shares her home with her husband, 3 dogs, 3 cats, 2 birds, and 1 tortoise.  When Maryann is not working she can be found crafting, gardening, cooking, reading, or enjoying the Florida sunshine.

Chelsea G., CVT

Chelsea made the move to St. Petersburg from her home state of New York in July 2018 after graduating from the veterinary technician program of the State University of New York.

With a keen interest in Archaeology, she earned her BA in Anthropology before deciding on a change of career to Veterinary Medicine. Chelsea resides in St Petersburg with her 3 cats, Renegade, Lovey, and Wilson.

Bree M.

Bree started with Pinellas Animal Hospital in August 2022. She is a Florida native, growing up in St Petersburg. Bree knew she wanted to work in the veterinary field since she was a little girl. In high school she was enrolled in the veterinary assistant program and graduated as a Certified Veterinary Assistant. After high school she studied at Stetson University. Bree is most passionate about client education and making sure the clients understand and are comfortable with their pet’s homecare.

Bree is a devoted gamer of video and board games. She enjoys 60’s music, being outdoor and collecting vintage metal lunchboxes. Her favorite in her collection is her Beatles lunchboxes. Bree doesn’t have any pets of her own at the moment, but reptiles hold a special place in her heart.

Cindy G.

Cindy began working with our sister hospital Seminole Blvd. Animal Hospital in April of 2012 after being in the veterinary field for over 30 years and has joined the team at Pinellas as a vet tech. She moved to Florida from Maryland in July of 2009. She lives in St. Petersburg with her husband and two children. They enjoy the company of their small zoo including 2 dogs, one cat, and several exotic reptiles. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, and cooking.

Angela L.

Angela is one of our veterinary technicians who also helps with our social media. Originally form Middletown, New Jersey where she worked at a veterinary hospital for 16 years until she moved down here in early 2021. She has a passion to help animals live long and healthy lives and to to speak for those who cannot.

When she is not at the clinic she enjoys kayaking, spending time at the beach, hiking, traveling, and camping.  Angela shares her home with her little dog, Coral.

Veterinary Assistants

Sarah L.

Sarah moved to Florida in 2014 from Michigan, where she was working towards her degree in Forensic Science. After moving to Pinellas Park, she started working as a dog trainer, which showed her how much she enjoyed working with animals. Sarah began working at PAH in 2016 as a Client Care Coordinator and never looked back!

With her upbeat personality, she loves taking care of the many clients and their pets that come through our door. At home she spends her time with her dog Wrex, cat Bandit and husband Josh. When not in work Sarah enjoys visiting the beach, playing video games, napping :), camping and fishing.

Heather W.

Heather joined the Pinellas Animal Hospital team in March of 2019. She has always loved animals from a very young age and knew she wanted to work with them. She has 3 fur kids of her own, two dogs, Milo Cian and Dexter Dade, and a cat, Cat Damon. With her positive, enthusiastic attitude she loves to provide the best care for our clients and their pets. She is eager to continue helping to be an advocate for pets and further her education to one day become a Certified Veterinary Technician.

In her free time, she loves to spend time with her husband, pets, and her son, born June 2020. She loves being creative, going fishing, playing video games, crafting things, and Disney!

Marisa S.

Marisa, originally from Alabama, moved to Florida at the age of six. She began her career at Pinellas Animal Hospital in May 2020 as a kennel attendant. Through dedication and hard work, she progressed to the role of veterinary assistant and recently earned the title of Certified Veterinary Assistant. Marisa has always had a deep love for animals and shares her home with her boyfriend Alek, along with a diverse collection of pets, including one dog, five cats, two sulcata tortoises, and six Pekin ducks.

Outside of work and caring for her “mini zoo,” Marisa enjoys exploring nature parks, baking, and visiting Disney theme parks.

Tonni C.

Tonni, is a Florida native growing up in Clearwater.  She began her journey with us in October of 2020.  He attended Lakewood High School where she was enrolled in the Aquatic Management System and Environmental Technology (AMSET) program.    She loves talking to all clients about their pets and treats every pet that comes into the clinic as if they are her own.  Tonni, has 2 dogs Dozer and Squirt, 2 cats Havoc and Ollie, and a fish tank.  Yes, she named every fish.

When Tonni is not at work she enjoys fishing, boating, bike riding, helping others, trying new food, and visiting different parks and beaches.

Dawn W.

Dawn has always had a passion for providing care to animals in a kennel situation and began her journey
with Pinellas Animal Hospital in August 2022.  In September 2023 Dawn worked her way up to veterinary assistant.

She has a natural ability to connect to the pets in her care, giving them extra special attention and ensuring their stay is as comfortable as possible.
Dawn shares her home with her longtime boyfriend, James, 3 dogs Buddy, Sadie, Jack-Jack, who she recently adopted from PAH. In her spare time Dawn loves
spending time at the dog park each day and going on long walks, she also enjoys reading and watching
YouTube videos.

Customer Service Representatives

Julie W., CVT

Education: St. Petersburg College, Florida

Julie is our longest serving member of staff and began her career in veterinary medicine while she was still in high school. Having grown up in Indiana, Julie moved to Florida to pursue her degree in Veterinary Technology at St Petersburg College. After graduating from the program in 1992, she joined the staff of Pinellas Animal Hospital in April 1993.

Julie lives in St. Petersburg with her husband Stan and spends her free time pursuing activities with their beautiful daughter, Lyndie.

Darci B.

Darci became a part of the PAH family in May 2014 while pursuing her psychology degree.  After graduating, she embarked on her professional journey in June 2019.  Driven by her passion for both people and animals, she returned to PAH in April 2023.  Darci is a beacon of positivity, radiation, love, and light to all she encounters.  Outside of work, she shares her home with her husband, daughter, three dogs, three cats, and a bearded dragon.  During her leisure time you will find her enjoying music, quality family time and embracing all things tie-dye.

Kennel Team

Dusty B.

Dusty, a native of Florida, born and raised in Pinellas County.  Began his journey with PAH in 2013, since then, he has become an integral part of the PAH family, demonstrating dedication to our mission and the well-being of all patients.  Recently, Dusty and his wife adopted a 12-year-old daughter into their lives, adding a lively and dynamic element to their daily activities.  In addition to parenting, Dusty shares his home with three dogs, three cats, and a bearded dragon.  Outside the clinic, he finds great joy in landscaping, indulging in video games, and spending time with his family.

Casie S.

Casie, is a proud Florida native, born and raised in Pasco County and moved to Pinellas County in 2018. In January 2023, she became a part of the PAH family, bringing with her a background as a Paralegal. Driven by a deep love for animals, Casie transitioned from the legal profession to a career within the veterinary field.  

At home, Casie has 2 sweet dogs who share her love for everything outdoors. She also can be found exploring the Arts and Culture of the Tampa Bay area, boating, camping and spending time with family and friends.  

Sophia L.

Sophia became a valued member of the Pinellas Animal Hospital team in June 2024, bringing with her a passion for animals and a commitment to their well-being. Originally from Massachusetts, Sophia made the sunny move to Florida in April 2021, where she’s embraced the local lifestyle. Her love for animals drives her to ensure each patient receives the best care possible.

Outside the clinic, you’ll find Sophia making the most of Florida’s natural beauty—whether she’s hiking, kayaking, or swimming under the sun. In her downtime, she enjoys sharpening her mind with board games and trivia challenges.

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