We believe there’s a reason it’s called “Specialty” Medicine. While we are board-certified specialists, it’s the extraordinary families and pets we have the honor of caring for that make our work so rewarding. Partnering with dedicated primary care veterinarians is essential to delivering the collaborative care our patients deserve. We’re grateful to receive referrals from veterinarians across Arizona and the Southwest and take pride in providing specialized care when called upon.
To become a specialist, one must obtain a four-year veterinary degree and then pursue additional training in an accredited program. This typically includes a one-year internship, followed by a 3-4 year residency in a particular medical discipline. Gaining acceptance into a residency training program can be quite competitive, therefore only those with the highest academic and professional achievement gain entry. In addition to the clinical training, a veterinarian may also publish original research and pass a series of rigorous examinations to earn this designation.
At DVMS, every patient is special, and every patient’s family deserves the time, compassion, and information they need to make decisions that are right for their pet. Please know that our goal is to assist you in any way we can. We are glad you chose Desert Veterinary Medical Specialists.
DVM, DACVIM
DVM, DACVIM
Dr. Emery Jones is a skilled veterinary professional with extensive training and expertise in small animal medicine. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Arizona before going on to achieve her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine (Cum Laude) from Kansas State University. Dr. Jones further honed her skills through a small animal rotating internship at Texas A&M, a specialty internship at Memphis Veterinary Specialists, and a Small Animal Internal Medicine residency at the University of Florida.
Her professional interests lie in gastroenterology, immune-mediated diseases, and infectious diseases, where she has developed a strong reputation for her knowledge and dedication to her field. Originally from the Tempe area, Dr. Jones was thrilled to return home after several years of advanced training. Before pursuing her veterinary career, she spent time working on a sheep farm in coastal Oregon—a formative experience that ultimately confirmed her decision not to pursue farming sheep.
Outside of her professional life, Dr. Jones is passionate about traveling, cooking, and reading. She is also a dedicated supporter of the Wildcats, cheering for both the University of Arizona and Kansas State University. Dr. Jones shares her life with a Husky mix, affectionately known as her “Tennessee Road Dog,” a nod to the dog’s origins where she was found in Tennessee.
DVM, PhD, DACVIM, DACLAM
Dr. Angie Mexas graduated from Colorado State University with a DVM and BS in Microbiology. She completed two small animal rotation internships including one at Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston, MA. She continued her training at North Carolina State University for small animal internal medicine and a PhD in Immunology.
She returned to Arizona in 2014. Her areas of most interest include immune medication and infections of dogs and cats. She continues to practice, teach and do research. She also shares her home with four cats.
Dr. Riensche grew up in Iowa where she received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University in 2004 and is board-certified with the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. After graduation she completed a one-year rotating internship at VCA Animal Referral and Emergency Center of Arizona, followed by a residency at the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana. She is one of three partners in Desert Veterinary Medical Specialists. She has particular interests in nephrology, gastroenterology, infectious disease, respiratory medicine, and endocrine diseases. She shares her home with her husband Bryan, son RJ, Monroe her Lab-Dane mix, Mercedes a Spaniel-Poodle mix, and cat named Fan Belt. In her spare time she enjoys sharing a comfy spot with her pets while reading, hiking and biking, interior decorating, and art projects. She is a past president of the Arizona Veterinary Medical Association and remains active by being a member of their advisory board and the independent business owners committee.
DVM, MS, DACVR
DVM, DACVR
Dr. Heffelman is a native of Colorado and obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Colorado State University, where she quickly discovered her love for all things in radiology. After graduation in 2004, she completed a small animal medicine and surgery rotating internship at a private practice in Colorado followed by an additional year in private practice as an associate veterinarian. Dr. Heffelman then completed a diagnostic imaging residency at Michigan State University in 2009, and became board certified that year. She and her husband moved back to the West for the mountains, sun, and great climate. She was excited to join Arizona Veterinary Specialists and, soon thereafter, to become a partner in Desert Veterinary Medical Specialists. Her special areas of interest include abdominal ultrasound and CT. She lives with her husband Richard, a Labrador named Gauge, a Welsh Corgi named Matilda, and a Chihuahua named Wiley, and enjoys traveling, spending time with family, movies, hiking, and enjoying all that Arizona and the southwest has to offer!
DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology)
Dr. Whit M. Church earned his DVM degree from Oregon State University in 2002. After graduation he completed a one-year small animal rotating internship at Cornell University. He then completed his cardiology residency at both the University of Illinois and the University of Pennsylvania. He moved from Philadelphia to Arizona and started Desert Veterinary Medical Specialists in the Phoenix Valley. He has also served as adjunct faculty at Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine. He has lectured at numerous veterinary schools and national veterinary conferences, and is a founding member of the Cardiac Education Group. Dr. Church is board certified with the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Subspecialty Cardiology. His special areas of interest include infectious and neoplastic pericardial diseases, and interventional cardiovascular procedures.
DVM, Cardiology Resident
(Internal Medicine and Radiology Operations Director)
Megan, one of our die-hard Broncos fans was born and raised in Colorado which is where she received her Associates in veterinary technology. Through growing up in Colorado she has learned to love gardening and plants, which I am pretty sure takes up at least ½ her home here in Arizona. She has been known to use her gardening skills to supply her kitchen with fresh foods, and don’t even get her started on her love for sandwiches and Korean BBQ. She is our Senior Lead CVT and joined our Gilbert team back in 2014. She brings her trusty new companion Tony, a young chihuahua mix with her to work, because let’s be honest who would want to leave their pets at home if they didn’t have too. Don’t get her wrong though she has three cats at home and is a sucker for heavier feline patients.
(Cardiology Operations Director)
Co-Director of Technicians specializing in cardiology, I oversee a talented team that plays a key role in advancing heart health and patient care. My career has been shaped by years of hands-on experience and a strong commitment to ensuring the highest standards in the field.
Originally from Chicago, I made the move to Arizona in 2003, and I’ve since called this vibrant state home. Outside of work, I’m a proud wife of 20 years and a mother of two wonderful children. Our family is also kept lively by our two beloved dogs!
When I’m not focusing on my professional goals, you’ll find me cheering on the Chicago Cubs—I'm a huge baseball fan and have a deep love for the game. Whether it’s enjoying a game with family or diving into the stats, baseball is a big part of my life.
(Executive Director)
I completed my Bachelor's degree at St. Cloud State University, followed by an MBA from the Minnesota School of Business and a Master of Health Administration from the University of Phoenix. With over 15 years of experience in human health, focusing on geriatric care, and 10 years in management roles within the veterinary field, I have a strong passion for specialty veterinary care. I love the opportunity to build lasting bonds not only with our clients and their pets but also with our referring practices.
Originally from Minnesota, my spouse and I made the move to Arizona in 2012, and we've never looked back—enjoying the sunshine and warmth away from the snow and cold. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, exploring food festivals, and running 5Ks. I am also a proud pet parent to three rescued companions: Margo, our sweet long-haired cat; Ruby, our shy yet loving terrier mix; and Clark, a stocky terrier mix who keeps us on our toes with his lively spirit and sweet cuddles.
(Peoria Operations Director)
Chelsea is originally from Florida and a proud, diehard Florida Gators fan. She relocated in 2020, bringing
her sunshine-state roots and love for all things water
with her. Chelsea holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marine
Science along with an Associate’s degree in Veterinary
Science, combining her passion for animals with a
strong scientific foundation.
Outside of work, Chelsea enjoys reading, spending
time near any body of water, and keeping things
organized; though her well-known clumsiness tends to
keep life interesting. Known for her sense of humor and
quick wit, she’s always ready with a good joke and loves
making those around her laugh. At home, she’s kept on
her toes by her feisty (and slightly angry) betta fish,
Finnando.
Senior Client Service Representative
Senior Client Service Representative
Senior Client Service Representative
Client Service Representative
Client Service Representative
Client Service Representative
RDMS
Sonographer & Radiology Veterinary Technician
Senior Internal Medicine Technician
Lab Operations and Accounting Coordinator
Cardiology
Internal Medicine
Internal Medicine
Radiology
Lab Operations and Marketing Coordinator
Senior Internal Medicine Technician
Internal Medicine Floor Technician
Internal Medicine
Internal Medicine
Internal Medicine
Internal Medicine
Cardiology
Cardiology
Radiology
Radiology
Floor Technician
Internal Medicine
Cardiology
Are you looking for an opportunity to put your skills to work in a veterinary specialty practice?
Our pet stories tell our story, one of dedication to improving pet lives through compassionate care.
2 Convenient Locations
Life in our offices are ever-changing. With expansion into Peoria we now have 2 total offices and are looking for others to join our fantastic team.
