Meet The Team
Dr. Nathan Kirkpatrick
Owner, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Nathan Kirkpatrick, DVM is a third-generation veterinarian originally from Cokato, Minnesota. He grew up working at his father’s veterinary clinic, where early hands-on experience and a lifelong love of animals inspired his pursuit of veterinary medicine.
Dr. Kirkpatrick earned his Bachelor of Science in Health and Wellness from the University of Minnesota before completing his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine in 2011. Following graduation, he practiced at the Associated Veterinary Clinics of Cokato and Waverly and at Normandale Veterinary Hospital in Edina. In 2012, he joined the Associated Veterinary Clinics full-time and purchased the practices from his father in 2019.
Dr. Kirkpatrick is committed to client education and collaborative decision-making, believing informed owners are essential to excellent patient care. His professional interests include preventive medicine, internal medicine, dentistry, and surgery.
He lives in Independence, Minnesota, with his wife, Molly, their two sons, Wyatt and Jack, and their Golden Retriever, Max. Outside of work, Dr. Kirkpatrick enjoys anything water-related, including water skiing, wake surfing, wakeboarding and time at the beach. He is also an avid runner who enjoys the challenge of the occasional marathon, as well as hunting, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.
Dr. Tawnia K. Prior
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
“I love cats and dogs in all shapes, sizes, and breeds. From preventative care to surgery, my passion is keeping your fur babies healthy.”
Dr. Prior has been working as a small animal veterinarian since graduating from the University of Minnesota in 2005. Prior to veterinary school, she worked as a Certified Veterinary Technician for over 10 years.
Dr. Prior lives in Delano with her husband and two beautiful daughters. The Priors’ share their home with two Vizslas named Justice and Allegiance and two cats, Sophie and Itten. When time allows, Dr. Prior enjoys spending quality time at the family cabin, baking (not cooking), and trap/target shooting.
Amy Gabbert
Veterinary Technician
Amy graduated from Ridgewater College in 2006 with an AAS degree in Veterinary Technology and has been dedicated to animal care ever since. Shortly after earning her degree, she began her career at the Delano Veterinary Clinic, where her passion for helping animals continues to shine.
Her love for animals started early, growing up on a dairy farm where caring for livestock was part of everyday life. That lifelong connection still shapes her work and dedication today. When she clocks out, the animal party doesn’t stop. At home, she’s got her own crew: two horses (Willow and Flame), a big-hearted German Shepherd named Max, and two cats, Tilly and Monte.
When she’s not wrangling animals, Amy’s all about good vibes, whether that’s horseback riding, casting a line out fishing, or kicking back at a country concert or festival. Boots, music, and fresh air? That’s her kind of perfect day.
Andrea Benson
Certified Veterinary Technician
Andrea is a small-town original with a big heart and an even bigger craft stash. A proud graduate of Ridgewater College, she grew up in Hutchinson, MN, where she learned the value of community, hard work, and probably how to make something from nothing. These days, she calls Watertown home, where life is full and lively with her husband, two kids, and three cats who are convinced they run the place.
When she’s not busy keeping up with family life, Andrea can usually be found doing what she loves most—whether that’s camping under the stars, getting lost in a good book, baking something delicious, or diving into her latest creative project. Equal parts cozy and creative, she’s the kind of person who makes life a little warmer (and probably a lot tastier) for everyone around her.
Katie Pace
Veterinary Technician
Katie is a valued member of our team who combines a calm, compassionate approach with a genuine enthusiasm for animal care. She is dedicated to creating a positive experience for every patient and client, helping pets feel comfortable while supporting their families with thoughtful, attentive service.
Outside of the clinic, Katie enjoys spending time at the beach, exploring hiking trails, and camping whenever she can. At home, she is kept busy by her two dogs, Oshie, her friendly Labrador, and Pixel, her gentle Great Dane, who are a constant source of joy.
Katie is also a proud aunt to twins and loves spending time with her family. Her warmth, reliability, and love for animals make her a wonderful part of our clinic team.
Hailea Frommelt
Veterinary Technician Assistant
Born in Nevada, but Delano made her — Hailea has been serving main-character energy for 15 years straight. Class of 2024 and already thriving, she’s either in the saddle (15 years deep, no big deal) or running the show with her iconic crew: Roxie the Schnauzer, Khioe the Schnoodle, and Wrigley the Paint horse (yes, she upgraded from dogs to horsepower).
When she’s not out here living her equestrian era, she’s curating vintage vibes like a pro — specifically hunting down those Spring Blossom 1972 Purex dishes like it’s a competitive sport Basically? A little country, a little classy, and 100% that girl.
Amy Palmlund
Receptionist
Rooted in Wayzata, Minnesota, Amy blends compassion and curiosity in every chapter of her life. After earning her master’s in mental health counseling and dedicating 10 years to the field, she chose to spend 14 years at home raising her three children.
Now living in Delano with her husband Jason, their children, and a lively mix of pets, from dogs and cats to hamsters and chickens. Amy’s days are a blend of happy chaos and meaningful connection.
In her free time, she finds inspiration in travel and camping adventures, the timeless beauty of piano music, and the charm of eclectic bookstores waiting to be discovered. Guided by compassion and a love for all living things, Amy holds close a dream of one day opening an animal sanctuary; a reflection of the nurturing spirit she brings to every corner of her life.
Bella Gavin
Receptionist
Bella is a senior at Crown College and is excited to graduate in July 2026 with her Bachelor’s degree. When she’s not working or studying, you can usually find her spending time with her yellow lab, Annie, or out riding her Quarter Horse, Champ, two of her favorite adventure buddies.
She loves being involved at her church, where she regularly attends and serves on the worship team. Bella’s dream career is still happily up for debate: it might include training dogs, working with horses, or serving full time in ministry. Coming from a big family with eight siblings, she’s no stranger to a little chaos and loves spending time with both family and friends whenever she gets the chance.
When she’s not busy, Bella enjoys slowing down with a good book, watching movies, writing music, or tackling a puzzle; usually with a cup of coffee nearby.