Veterinary Team
Meet Our Veterinary Team
Meet the Veterinarians & Team of Palms West Veterinary Hospital! We’re pleased to provide exceptional vet care for your pets!
Get to know our team!
We are solely dedicated to your pet’s care! We look forward to getting to know you, and we hope you’ll take the time to scroll down and get to know us.
Our Doctors
Dr. Richard Kelleher
USDA Accredited
fter earning his bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech, Dr. Richard Kelleher earned his doctorate degree from Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine in 2000. Having grown up in South Jersey, he has called South Florida home since graduating from vet school. His interests range from internal medicine cases to dermatology and has performed many challenging surgeries as well. As a cat lover, “Dr. K” has 3 cats of his own: Priscilla, Lisa Marie, and Annie. In his spare time, he enjoys visiting Disney parks and Universal often.
Dr. Kelleher performs most of our surgeries, as well as sees regular appointments and emergencies.
Dr. Michael Dym
Veterinarian
Dr. Michael Dym did he undergraduate training with a BS in animal science at Cornell University, graduating in 1986, and received his VMD from the University of Pennsylvania in 1991. Over the past 32 years Dr Dym has developed a passion for internal medicine cases, especially gastroenterology and dermatology cases. Dr Dym also has an additional deep passion incorporating more natural therapies, including homeopathic, nutritional and herbal therapies in his animal case management. In his spare time Dr Dym enjoys spending time by the ocean and doing other beach recreational activities. He is the proud feline guardian of the most affectionate kitty named Grayson.
Dr. Justine Swaress
Veterinarian
Dr. Justine Swaress is a South Florida native who earned her veterinary degree at The University of Sydney in Australia. After her 4-year tour boxing kangaroos, fending off huntsmen spiders, and escaping koalas with chlamydia, Dr. Swaress decided to come back home to South Florida where the only real threat is mosquitoes. Raised with German Shepherds, Dr. Swaress has a special love for large-breed dogs. She is especially passionate about client communication, education, and teaching, and has a strong interest in cytology. Dr. Swaress loves to learn and is open to treating any species that comes her way. In her spare time, Dr. Swaress enjoys crocheting and spending time with her 2 Australian kitties, Bella and Corn.
Dr. Evan M. Blair
Veterinarian
Dr. Evan M. Blair graduated from Tuskegee University in 1995 and moved back home to South Florida. He owned his own practice until 2015 and then did mainly relief work until working for a non-profit for many years. His favorite thing about being a Veterinarian is witnessing that special bond between fur babies and their families.
In his spare time, he enjoys his dogs and cats and working on his vegetable garden.
Dr. Cassandra Martinez McDow
Veterinarian
Dr. Cassandra Martinez McDow is a born and raised ‘Jersey Girl’ originally from Toms River, New Jersey. Growing up on a self-described “farm” with horses, chickens in addition to cats and dogs, Dr. Martinez McDow had a love of animals from a young age.
A lifelong dream of being a veterinarian led her to obtaining her Bachelor of Science (Pre-Veterinary Medicine) from the University of Findlay (Ohio). During this time, she also enlisted in the US Army Reserves and served as a combat medic for 4 years. Dr. Martinez McDow continued her career path at St. Matthew’s University, located in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands and after completing her clinical year at the University of Georgia, graduated in 2017.
She returned to island living and joined a local small animal practice, focusing primarily on cats and dogs with the occasional parrot, iguana, or wild chicken thrown in. Dr. Martinez McDow and her family returned to the US in Summer 2021 after living almost 8 years abroad.
Client education, the human-animal bond, and preventative medicine is a foundation that Dr. Martinez McDow strongly believes helps foster a lifelong relationship between clients and their pets. She also enjoys soft tissue surgery, wildlife/exotic medicine and has interests in hospice care and veterinary forensics.
Dr. Martinez McDow currently resides in the Acreage/West Palm Beach with her husband, John (also a former Army combat medic and current fishing captain), three children, and a furry/scaly/feathered crew that includes 3 dogs, 1 cat, a quaker parrot, leopard gecko, red tail boa, 2 Nigerian dwarf goats, and a flock of chickens. In her free time, she enjoys reading, being a beach bum, lacrosse, and spending time with family.
Michael
Practice Manager
Michael joined Palms West Veterinary Hospital in March 2025 and brings more than a decade of experience in veterinary practice management. He began his career in 2015, overseeing a five-doctor practice in Northwestern Pennsylvania that offered a diverse range of services, including exotics, orthopedics, internal medicine, and preventative care.
In 2019, Michael relocated to Weston, FL, where he continued to lead a busy veterinary practice until early 2024. He later moved to Port St. Lucie to be closer to family before joining the Palms West team.
Michael is especially passionate about preventative medicine, believing that routine exams and annual bloodwork play a vital role in early detection and long-term pet health.
A lifelong dachshund enthusiast, Michael cherished 14 years with his beloved Lilly and now enjoys life with Leonard, who keeps him busy outside of work. In his free time, he loves spending time outdoors and being with his family.
Chelsea
Chelsea has been a part of the Palm West Veterinary team since 2011 and has a lifelong love of animals.
At the clinic you can find her loving on a Dachshund or creating something for the clinic social media. But her dedication to animals doesn’t stop when she leaves the clinic; at home she cares for a mini zoo that includes dogs, cats, fish, chickens, leopard geckos, ball pythons, a bearded dragon, a blue tongue skink and even jumping spiders. In her spare time, she enjoys crafting and spending time with her husband.
Debbey
Debbey brings decades of animal care experience to the Palms West Veterinary Hospital team. She began her career in 1986 as an equine technician, a foundation that led her to work with a wide variety of farm animals and companion pets throughout the years.
Today, Debbey is a dedicated member of the Client Service Representative team, where she takes pride in helping both pets and their people feel welcome, comfortable, and supported. She truly enjoys connecting with clients and being a dependable resource during every visit.
Her personal motto reflects her commitment to client care: “I got ya!” no matter what is going on, Debbey is always ready to answer questions and help address concerns.
Outside of work, Debbey coaches Baton Twirling, including involvement with the AAU Junior Olympic Team, and cares for her own rescued animals—three donkeys named Cinderella, Isabella, and Eeyore, along with lots of kitties.
Lisa
Customer Service Representative who enjoys connecting with clients and building lasting relationships as their pets grow especially the ones that meow! Having been part of this clinic since the age of 5 , when my mother (Debbey) began working here, I’ve truly grown up alongside this clinic. Some of my earliest memories include riding horses out back, building forts and spending time around the clinic.
As part of a Navy family, I come and go depending on where we’re stationed, but this clinic will always feel like home and whenever I’m in the area, you’ll find me here.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and daughter, relaxing at the beach or exploring the mountains. I’m also a proud cat mom to Freddy, a Siamese, and Chucky, a Balinese both of whom inspire my passion for providing the best care possible.
Kaitlyn
Veterinary Assistant
Kaitlyn joined the Palms West Veterinary Hospital team in 2025 and has had a lifelong love for animals, having grown up around many different species. She enjoys building relationships with clients and providing compassionate care for their pets.
Kaitlyn especially loves puppy and kitten visits and has a growing interest in laceration repairs. She also values the opportunity to work and learn alongside different doctors to broaden her experience and skills.
Outside of work, Kaitlyn enjoys hunting, fishing, camping, attending concerts and festivals, and spending time with her dogs—two Catahoulas, Roxie and Tecova, and a Boykin Spaniel named Cleetus. Her personal quote adds a touch of humor to her day-to-day approach: “I was definitely a personality hire.”
A lifelong dachshund enthusiast, Michael cherished 14 years with his beloved Lilly and now enjoys life with Leonard, who keeps him busy outside of work. In his free time, he loves spending time outdoors and being with his family.
Vanessa
I was born and raised in South Florida and recently joined the team at Palms West when I relocated to West Palm Beach. I’ve enjoyed becoming part of the local community while continuing to do what I love. Working with animals has always been a passion of mine, I’ve been involved in vet med since I was young. Helping pets and their families is the most rewarding part of what I do.
When I’m not at work I enjoy listening to music, taking trips to the dog park and spending time at the beach swimming or watching the moon. Above all, I cherish hanging out with my family my three dogs and being the best aunt to my twin nephews.
Jalen
Jalen joined the team at Palms West in September of 2025. Jalen has always wanted to work with animals from a young age. Jalen wants to advance his career in Veterinary medicine by expanding his skill set and become a technician so that he can continue to help as many pets as possible.
“If you love what you do, is it really a job?’ is his personal quote.
When Jalen isn’t working, he enjoys spending time playing video games and spending time with his three dogs, four cats, and one pig named Bacon.
Avita
Veterinary Technician
I have always been an animal lover. Helping pets feel better and supporting the people who love them is the most rewarding part of my job. I believe in compassion, great care, and sharing and plenty of laughter along the way.
I have a special interest in laboratory diagnostics and radiology. I take pride in being able to safely pull blood and place catheters.
“Fur on my scrubs, coffee in my veins” is my personal quote
When I’m not at work, I enjoy gaming, painting, wine tasting, and spending time with my 2 dogs, 4 cats, 10 fish, 2 turtles, and of course friends and family.
Robin
Veterinary Technician
Robin has been a part of the Palms West team for over 14 years. Robin is passionate about surgery and dentistry. Robin shares her knowledge and wisdom of them both with the staff by training new hire employees like Jalen and Stephanie. Robin is usually assisting the doctors while they are in surgery and when she’s not, she’s taking care of your pet’s oral health. Robin is an expert when it comes to dentistry. She teaches new technicians how to take x-rays with our new digital radiograph equipment, properly scale and polish the teeth and how to chart. Robin also helps with keeping our clients informed She will meet with you when you drop your pet off for a procedure and she will meet with you pick up for discharge. When Robin isn’t at work you may see her running around training for her next 5K!!
Stephanie
Veterinary Assistant
Stephanie is a lifelong resident of West Palm Beach, Florida. She earned her Associate Degree in Biotechnology and Laboratory Specialist certification from Palm Beach State College, then went on to receive her Bachelor’s degree in Zoology/Biology from the University of Central Florida.
She enjoys working hands-on as a room technician, helping care for sick and injured pets, and assisting with dental procedures and surgeries, including spay and neuter procedures, mass removals, and amputations.
Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys reading fantasy novels, solving puzzles, and spending time with her family and pets—two dogs and ten cats. Her personal quote reflects her love for animals: “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than yourself.”
Michael
Practice Manager
Michael joined Palms West Veterinary Hospital in March 2025 and brings more than a decade of experience in veterinary practice management. He began his career in 2015, overseeing a five-doctor practice in Northwestern Pennsylvania that offered a diverse range of services, including exotics, orthopedics, internal medicine, and preventative care.
In 2019, Michael relocated to Weston, FL, where he continued to lead a busy veterinary practice until early 2024. He later moved to Port St. Lucie to be closer to family before joining the Palms West team.
Michael is especially passionate about preventative medicine, believing that routine exams and annual bloodwork play a vital role in early detection and long-term pet health.
A lifelong dachshund enthusiast, Michael cherished 14 years with his beloved Lilly and now enjoys life with Leonard, who keeps him busy outside of work. In his free time, he loves spending time outdoors and being with his family.
Avita
Veterinary Technician
I have always been an animal lover. Helping pets feel better and supporting the people who love them is the most rewarding part of my job. I believe in compassion, great care, and sharing and plenty of laughter along the way.
I have a special interest in laboratory diagnostics and radiology. I take pride in being able to safely pull blood and place catheters.
“Fur on my scrubs, coffee in my veins” is my personal quote
When I’m not at work, I enjoy gaming, painting, wine tasting, and spending time with my 2 dogs, 4 cats, 10 fish, 2 turtles, and of course friends and family.
In 2019, Michael relocated to Weston, FL, where he continued to lead a busy veterinary practice until early 2024. He later moved to Port St. Lucie to be closer to family before joining the Palms West team.
Robin
Veterinary Technician
Robin has been a part of the Palms West team for over 14 years. Robin is passionate about surgery and dentistry. Robin shares her knowledge and wisdom of them both with the staff by training new hire employees like Jalen and Stephanie. Robin is usually assisting the doctors while they are in surgery and when she’s not, she’s taking care of your pet’s oral health. Robin is an expert when it comes to dentistry. She teaches new technicians how to take x-rays with our new digital radiograph equipment, properly scale and polish the teeth and how to chart. Robin also helps with keeping our clients informed She will meet with you when you drop your pet off for a procedure and she will meet with you pick up for discharge. When Robin isn’t at work you may see her running around training for her next 5K!!
Stephanie
Veterinary Assistant
Stephanie is a lifelong resident of West Palm Beach, Florida. She earned her Associate Degree in Biotechnology and Laboratory Specialist certification from Palm Beach State College, then went on to receive her Bachelor’s degree in Zoology/Biology from the University of Central Florida.
She enjoys working hands-on as a room technician, helping care for sick and injured pets, and assisting with dental procedures and surgeries, including spay and neuter procedures, mass removals, and amputations.
Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys reading fantasy novels, solving puzzles, and spending time with her family and pets—two dogs and ten cats. Her personal quote reflects her love for animals: “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than yourself.”
Kaitlyn
Veterinary Assistant
Kaitlyn joined the Palms West Veterinary Hospital team in 2025 and has had a lifelong love for animals, having grown up around many different species. She enjoys building relationships with clients and providing compassionate care for their pets.
Kaitlyn especially loves puppy and kitten visits and has a growing interest in laceration repairs. She also values the opportunity to work and learn alongside different doctors to broaden her experience and skills.
Outside of work, Kaitlyn enjoys hunting, fishing, camping, attending concerts and festivals, and spending time with her dogs—two Catahoulas, Roxie and Tecova, and a Boykin Spaniel named Cleetus. Her personal quote adds a touch of humor to her day-to-day approach: “I was definitely a personality hire.”
Vanessa
Veterinary Assistant
I was born and raised in South Florida and recently joined the team at Palms West when I relocated to West Palm Beach. I’ve enjoyed becoming part of the local community while continuing to do what I love. Working with animals has always been a passion of mine, I’ve been involved in vet med since I was young. Helping pets and their families is the most rewarding part of what I do.
When I’m not at work I enjoy listening to music, taking trips to the dog park and spending time at the beach swimming or watching the moon. Above all, I cherish hanging out with my family my three dogs and being the best aunt to my twin nephews.
Jalen
Veterinary Assistant
Jalen joined the team at Palms West in September of 2025. Jalen has always wanted to work with animals from a young age. Jalen wants to advance his career in Veterinary medicine by expanding his skill set and become a technician so that he can continue to help as many pets as possible.
“If you love what you do, is it really a job?’ is his personal quote.
When Jalen isn’t working, he enjoys spending time playing video games and spending time with his three dogs, four cats, and one pig named Bacon.
Chelsea
Client Service Representative
Chelsea has been a part of the Palm West Veterinary team since 2011 and has a lifelong love of animals.
At the clinic you can find her loving on a Dachshund or creating something for the clinic social media. But her dedication to animals doesn’t stop when she leaves the clinic; at home she cares for a mini zoo that includes dogs, cats, fish, chickens, leopard geckos, ball pythons, a bearded dragon, a blue tongue skink and even jumping spiders. In her spare time, she enjoys crafting and spending time with her husband.
Debbey
Client Service Representative
Debbey brings decades of animal care experience to the Palms West Veterinary Hospital team. She began her career in 1986 as an equine technician, a foundation that led her to work with a wide variety of farm animals and companion pets throughout the years.
Today, Debbey is a dedicated member of the Client Service Representative team, where she takes pride in helping both pets and their people feel welcome, comfortable, and supported. She truly enjoys connecting with clients and being a dependable resource during every visit.
Her personal motto reflects her commitment to client care: “I got ya!” — no matter what is going on, Debbey is always ready to answer questions and help address concerns.
Outside of work, Debbey coaches Baton Twirling, including involvement with the AAU Junior Olympic Team, and cares for her own rescued animals—three donkeys named Cinderella, Isabella, and Eeyore, along with lots of kitties.
Lisa
Client Service Representative
Customer Service Representative who enjoys connecting with clients and building lasting relationships as their pets grow—especially the ones that meow! Having been part of this clinic since the age of 5 , when my mother (Debbey) began working here, I’ve truly grown up alongside this clinic. Some of my earliest memories include riding horses out back, building forts and spending time around the clinic.
As part of a Navy family, I come and go depending on where we’re stationed, but this clinic will always feel like home—and whenever I’m in the area, you’ll find me here.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and daughter, relaxing at the beach or exploring the mountains. I’m also a proud cat mom to Freddy, a Siamese, and Chucky, a Balinese—both of whom inspire my passion for providing the best care possible.