There is something truly special about the love of a beloved pet. Once experienced, the heart recognizes this special truth, especially in loss. The name TenderHeart refers to all who have been deeply touched by the loss of a dear pet. To have a pet and love that pet dearly, is an invitation to become a Tenderheart.
A Tenderheart then, is one who strives to be a gentle, sincere, understanding, nonjudgmental and compassionate presence throughout the entire end of life process. TenderHearts know first-hand how important it is to have a kind and supportive person walk this journey with you. Dr. Melissa, Dr. Kathleen, as well as the staff at Riverview Animal are here for you. It is an honor to be of service to you and your pet in this difficult time.
Melissa Hall, DVM
Dr. Melissa Hall graduated from Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2018. Dr. Melissa and her husband lived in Durango for 9 years before veterinary school and always planned to return to the area. Dr. Melissa has a special interest in acupuncture, hospice care, internal medicine, and emergency medicine. When not working, Dr. Melissa and her husband are busy chasing their son around on his bike and skis. She has 2 dogs, one cat, and 2 horses.
Kathleen MacCarthy, DVM
Dr. Kathleen received her Bachelor’s degree in zoology from Southern Illinois University and accepted a position at the National Wildlife Research Center in Fort Collins, CO. While there, she completed her formal veterinary training at Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 2009. Dr. Kathleen and her husband settled in Gunnison where she started and ran her own practice for 14 years while raising their family. Dr. Kathleen’s primary interests include small animal preventive medicine, emergency medicine, and surgery as well as utilizing acupuncture as another means for pain management and healing in animals. Her practice in Gunnison won the People’s Choice Award for seven years straight. Dr. Kathleen sold her practice in 2024, and although she gained valuable experience and treasures her past patients and their families, she is excited to call Durango her home. Kathleen joins her husband Nate, who works as a conservation biologist for Colorado Parks and Wildlife. They share their busy lives with their three children, Reilly, Rowan, and Drayden, their dogs Ellie and Griff, their cats Kitty and Lemon and their horses JJ, Nike, and Rico. They all love being outside, hiking, camping, and horseback riding. They also enjoy watching their kids swim, and play hockey and soccer.