Meet Northwood Animal Hospital’s caring and experienced staff!
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DR. JENNIFER KLABUNDE
DVM, CVCP
Dr. Jen Klabunde is a Veterinarian and co-owner of Northwood Animal Hospital. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Penn State University and a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University. Dr. Klabunde moved to Northern Michigan in 2007 to take over ownership of our practice.
Dr. Klabunde is an active member of the veterinary medical community. She has been involved with local animal rescue organizations and served as President of the Northern Michigan Veterinary Medical Association for several years. She is a member of the MVMA, AVMA, AAFP, and AAHA.
When not working, Dr. Klabunde can be found shuttling her three children to and from school sporting events. Since 2010, she has been the head coach of the ‘Girls on the Run’ program at Kingsley Elementary School, where she encourages young girls to develop self-esteem and healthy lifestyles. She enjoys camping, boating, and fishing with her four-legged best friend Finn.
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DR. JOHN SHEARD
DVM
Dr. John Sheard joined Northwood Animal Hospital in 2022, bringing with him a strong background in both veterinary medicine and business. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine in 2009, following a 14-year career in corporate finance while living in Chicago.
During his time at the University of Wisconsin, Dr. Sheard was recognized with Student Achievement Awards in both Dentistry and Internal Medicine. He also served as Treasurer of the Student Chapter of the National Veterinary Medical Association. After graduating, he began practicing in Madison, Wisconsin, and later moved to Michigan to serve as Medical Director at a local veterinary practice and to be closer to family. Dr. Sheard’s professional interests include soft tissue and orthopedic surgery, as well as internal medicine.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Sheard is an avid sailor, guitar enthusiast, and distance runner. He lives in Traverse City with his wife, Kathy, their son, Logan, and their dog, Sydney.
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DR. JENNIFER LINK
DVM
Dr. Jennifer Link joined Northwood Animal Hospital in 2024, bringing with her over a decade of experience in small animal general medicine and surgery. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Zoology, with a concentration in Animal Behavior and Neurobiology (2006), and her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine (2011) from Michigan State University.Prior to joining our team, Dr. Link practiced in the Mid-Michigan area, where she was known for her thoughtful approach to care and dedication to both pets and their people. Her deep love of science, medicine, and animals has been the inspiration behind her veterinary journey. Dr. Link’s empathy and dedication to both her patients and their families make her a valued member of our team.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Link enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, relaxing on the beach, and cheering on MSU sports teams. She and her husband share their home with their son, Theo, two bulldogs—Ursula & Bessy— four cats—Henry, Merlin, Arthur, and Morgana— and a lively flock of 14 Silkie chickens.
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CLINT KLABUNDE
Hospital Administrator
Clint Klabunde co-owns Northwood Animal Hospital and is our Hospital Administrator. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Penn State University, Clint worked for the USDA’s National Veterinary Service Laboratory in Ames, Iowa. Clint moved to Northern Michigan with his family and became our Hospital Administrator in 2007.
As Hospital Administrator, Clint is usually working behind the scenes managing the business aspect of our hospital. He has been an active member of the Interlochen Chamber of Commerce since 2011 and was honored to be elected President of the Chamber in 2014.
In his free time, Clint enjoys woodworking and snowmobiling throughout Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. He enjoys spending time with his family. Clint shares his home and farm with dogs, cats, sheep, and whatever else his wife or children bring home.
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PATTY N.
Office Manager
Patty Neubecker is our Practice Manager. Prior to joining our team, Patty started in the veterinary field as an assistant in her hometown in 2003. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Michigan State University, she moved to Northern Michigan and joined our practice in 2010.
Not only does Patty enjoy working with our patients, but she truly enjoys getting to know our clients. She is always trying to create and develop informational tools that help educate clients on topics that directly affect their pets.
When Patty is not at work, she enjoys time spent outdoors doing activities with her family. Patty and her husband Jared have two children, Hunter and Rylie, and three pets Ruger (dog), Ino & Metoo (cats).
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MELISSA T.
Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)
Melissa is a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT). She joined our practice after graduating from Michigan State University’s LVT program in 2009.
Melissa was inspired to go into the field of veterinary technology as an avenue to serve and care for people, advocating for the pets they love and cherish so much. She is a compassionate and intelligent technician that will be there for your pet’s every need.
When not caring for your pets, you will find Melissa hiking around the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore with her husband Buddy and their dog Sky. Her interests include disc golfing, dancing, running, baking, and creating beautiful furniture and décor.
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KARLEE D.
Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)
Karlee is a Licensed Veterinary Technician who joined our hospital before earning her degree from Baker College in 2017. Her journey into veterinary medicine was inspired by her dog, Lilly, who required extensive medical care at a young age. Karlee became so involved in Lilly’s treatment that the veterinary team trained her to assist in at-home care—ultimately sparking her passion for veterinary technology.
Karlee is known for her meticulous attention to detail and strong dedication to patient care. She brings a high level of skill and compassion to every case and is a valued member of our medical team.
Outside of work, Karlee enjoys spending time with her family fishing, camping, reading, and baking. She and her husband, Austin, have two children, Walker and Maeve, and a full house of beloved animals: dogs Lilly, Ellie, and Gypsy; cats Carson, Goose, and Socks; along with a variety of farm animals.
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SAM O.
Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)
Sam is a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) who joined our practice after graduating from Michigan State University’s accredited LVT program in 2021. Her compassion for animals and dedication to their well-being are what inspired her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.
Sam takes pride in using her technical skills to provide quality care and finds fulfillment in comforting and supporting the pets she works with.
Outside of the clinic, Sam enjoys playing the ukulele, rollerblading, reading, and spending time with her sister, Kayla, and her two cats, Sugarpie and Honeybunch.
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ABBY L.
Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)
Abby is a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) who joined our team after graduating from Michigan State University’s accredited LVT program in 2022.
Her lifelong passion for animal care, along with a deep desire to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves, is what inspired her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.
Outside of the clinic, Abby enjoys exploring Northern Michigan's lakes and rivers through paddleboarding and kayaking. She also values time spent with her family. Abby and her significant other, Gabe, share their home with a lively pack that includes three Bernese Mountain Dogs—Baxter, Mack, and Rory—as well as two cats, Roscoe and Yoshi.
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Amber K.
Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)
Amber is a Licensed Veterinary Technician who joined our team in 2024. She graduated from Baker College of Cadillac in 2018 and spent several years honing her skills at another veterinary clinic in Northern Michigan before bringing her expertise to our practice.
Amber is passionate about building strong relationships with clients and their pets. Amber is also deeply committed to client education, helping pet owners make informed decisions to provide the best care possible for their companions.
Known for her warm demeanor and welcoming smile, Amber brings positive energy to every interaction. In her free time, she enjoys relaxing with a good book and the quiet company of her three cats—Sherlock, Pocket, and Freya. On sunny days, you might find her hiking alongside her husband, Justin, and their two dogs, Fenrir and Artemis.
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ASHLEY P.
Veterinary Assistant
Ashley is a skilled Veterinary Assistant who joined our team in 2018. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Health Services from Western Michigan University in 2012. Before relocating to Northern Michigan, Ashley gained six years of valuable experience in animal care while working with Leader Dogs for the Blind.
Ashley is passionate about continuing to grow in her role and is dedicated to supporting the health and wellness of every pet she assists. She finds great fulfillment in being part of a team that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of animals and their families.
Outside of work, Ashley enjoys reading, watching movies, and hiking with her family. She and her husband, Brian, have a daughter, Elliana, and share their home with two beloved pets Jaxson (dog) and Penny (cat).
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SHELBY T.
Veterinary Assistant
Shelby joined our practice in 2021 as a receptionist, embarking on a new career path in veterinary medicine. Since then, she has advanced into the role of Veterinary Assistant and is actively working toward becoming a Licensed Veterinary Technician.
Her dedication to client care, combined with her genuine love for animals, makes Shelby a valued member of our team. She is known for her exceptional customer service and her ability to provide comfort and compassion to both clients and patients.
Outside of the clinic, Shelby and her husband, Jake, enjoy exploring new places, hosting bonfires, and going on lighthearted adventures with their two dogs, Kirby and Jelli—occasionally in search of the elusive Sasquatch.
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TESSA K.
Patient Care Coordinator
Tessa works behind the scenes as our Content Coordinator, bringing creativity and dedication to every project she undertakes. A proud Spartan, she graduated from Michigan State University in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and a minor in Spanish. She joined our practice in the spring of 2013.
Known for her strong work ethic and warm, outgoing personality, Tessa quickly became an integral part of our team. She is passionate about developing educational and engaging content that helps inform and connect with our clients.
Outside of work, Tessa enjoys spending quality time with her family and close friends. She shares her life with her husband, Darren, their children—Kinsley, DJ, and Lincoln—and their beloved pets: Buckley (dog) and Killian (cat).
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CHRISTY B.
Patient Care Coordinator
Christy began her career in the veterinary field as a volunteer with the ASPCA in 2000. She gained valuable experience working as an assistant and patient care coordinator in Las Vegas before relocating to Phoenix, where she served as a clinic manager for six years. In 2021, Christy moved to Northern Michigan to continue advancing her career.
She truly enjoys connecting with clients and working closely with patients to provide compassionate and personalized care.
Outside of work, Christy enjoys reading, gardening, and hiking. She shares her home with her husband, Todd, their daughter, Nika, and their pets: A black lab named Olly JaBarkus and three chihuahuas named Gussy Gustovo Gustoferson Bustamonte, Princess Monster Face, and Magical Leoplueridonasaurus Rex, as well as an everchanging number foster kittens.
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JENNA T.
Patient Care Coordinator
Jenna began her career in the veterinary field in 2004, working in both receptionist and assistant roles. After a brief hiatus, she returned to veterinary medicine and joined our practice in 2023 as a Patient Care Coordinator.
Jenna is proud to be part of a team that prioritizes high-quality medicine and compassionate care. She enjoys building connections with clients and their pets, and finds great fulfillment in knowing her work helps make a meaningful difference in their lives.
Outside of work, Jenna enjoys reading, painting, and spending time outdoors with her three children—Logan, Peyton, and Stephanie. Whether kayaking, swimming, or enjoying a bonfire, their dog, Shadow, is always close by to share in the adventure.
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KATIE L.
Patient Care Coordinator
Katie began her journey in the veterinary field in 2020, working as a receptionist at a Northern Michigan clinic. She joined our team in 2023 as a Patient Care Coordinator.
Katie takes pride in welcoming every patient with open arms and offering comfort during challenging moments. Her upbeat personality and quick wit—often delivered in the form of a clever pun—make her a valued and uplifting presence on our team.
Outside of work, Katie enjoys kayaking, gaming, and spending time with her partner, Charles, as well as friends and family. A talented artist, she loves drawing and digital illustration, and her cheerful doodles around the clinic always bring a smile. At home, she enjoys relaxing with her cat, Bea, while her leopard gecko, Kiri, often perches on her shoulder during gaming sessions.
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MOLLY H.
Veterinary Assistant
Molly joined our team in early 2025 as a Veterinary Assistant. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Michigan State University (2023) and is currently continuing her education through Baker College’s Veterinary Nursing Program in pursuit of becoming a Licensed Veterinary Technician.
Molly’s passion for animal welfare and advocacy drives her dedication to the field. She is committed to supporting the human-animal bond and approaches her work with both compassion and humor—often lightening the day with a well-timed “dad” joke that keeps the team smiling.
Outside of the clinic, Molly enjoys golfing, paddle boarding, and spending quality time with her family and pets. She lives with her partner, Matthew, and their pets: Mosby the dog, and two cats, Monty and Rango.
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MEGAN K.
Veterinary Assistant
Megan Klabunde is a Veterinary Assistant. She graduated from Kingsley High School and is currently attending Grand Valley State University with the long-term goal of becoming a Veterinarian.
Megan enjoys learning new things and growing as a Veterinary Assistant. She especially enjoys seeing the many different types of animals and their individual personalities, while helping them feel more comfortable and giving them a positive experience at the vet.
In her spare time, Megan enjoys spending time with friends, playing with her dog Grover, and going on hikes to watch the sunset. Megan has multiple pets, Grover (dog), Finn (dog), Cocoa (cat), Cricket (cat), and her Babydoll Southdown sheep.
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LAURA K.
Veterinary Assistant
Laura Klabunde is a Veterinary Assistant. After graduation, she plans to enter the field of Veterinary Medicine.
Laura enjoys interacting and taking care of all patients. She particularly likes making every patient visit the best experience possible.
In her spare time, Laura enjoys being with friends and family, creating things, outdoor recreation, and sports. Laura has many pets including sheep, dogs, and cats.
