Why Choosing a Locally Owned Veterinary Clinic Matters: The Story of PetMed of Key West
When you search for a “vet near me” in Dubuque, you’ll find a lot of options. Some are small, family-owned practices, while others are part of large corporate chains. At PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic, we are proud to be a locally owned and operated veterinary clinic, serving pets and their families in Dubuque and the surrounding area for over two decades.
Our Local Roots
PetMed has always been a part of the Dubuque community.
- In 1999, Dr. Haupert, a veterinarian and long-time Dubuque resident, founded PetMed Animal Health Center.
- In 2021, Dr. Mackenzie Hellert and her husband, Brett, purchased the practice, continuing its mission of providing personalized, family-focused veterinary care.
- In 2024, they merged PetMed with Key West Animal Clinic, another well-loved local practice, creating today’s PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic.
Unlike many “big box” veterinary chains, we are not affiliated with 1-800-PetMeds or any corporate veterinary group. Our team makes every decision based on what’s best for your pet — not a corporate shareholder.
Meet Our Veterinarians:
Dr. Mackenzie Hellert
Dr. Hellert grew up right here in Dubuque, on her family farm. She graduated from the Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine in 2011 and is licensed in nine states. Over the years, she has gained extensive experience in soft tissue surgery, internal medicine, emergency medicine, and general practice.
At home, Dr. Hellert and Brett share their lives with two very spoiled dogs, Martin and Thaddeus, as well as some equally spoiled horses. Their farm is also home to Jacob sheep, llamas, chickens, and even a Giant Flemish rabbit named Adeli. In her spare time, Dr. Hellert enjoys gardening, horseback riding and driving, and traveling — from Alaska to Arizona and everywhere in between.
Dr. Naomi Tigges
Born and raised in the Dubuque area, Dr. Tigges graduated from the Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine in 2009 and joined PetMed in 2022. She is the proud mom of two wonderful kids, Ella and Clark, as well as several cats and two guinea pigs.
Dr. Tigges has a special interest in chronic medical conditions and values the personal side of veterinary medicine — building lasting relationships with both clients and patients.
Dr. Kim Bergfeld
Dr. Bergfeld, also a Dubuque-area native, owned Key West Animal Clinic from 2010 until its merger with PetMed in 2024. She now continues to care for pets and families as part of the PetMed of Key West team. Dr. Bergfeld and her husband, Bernie, live on their farm in Bernard, Iowa, along with their beagle, Lily.
Why Choose a Family-Owned Veterinary Clinic?
When you bring your pets to PetMed of Key West, you’re choosing more than just a veterinary hospital. You’re choosing a team that:
- Knows your community — We live, work, and volunteer right here in Dubuque.
- Values relationships — We get to know you and your pets personally, building trust that lasts a lifetime.
- Provides continuity of care — You’ll see the same doctors and staff who are committed to your pet’s health long-term.
- Supports local families — By choosing us, you’re supporting a small, family-owned business that reinvests in our community.
Local Care for Dogs, Cats, and Exotics
PetMed of Key West cares for dogs, cats, and exotic pets. Whether you’re searching for a “dog vet near me” or a “cat vet near me”, our experienced veterinarians are here to help with wellness exams, vaccinations, diagnostics, surgery, and urgent care. We even provide care for reptiles, small mammals, and other exotic pets.
Your Hometown Veterinary Team
At PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic, we believe pets deserve the very best care — and families deserve the compassion, transparency, and trust that only a locally owned practice can provide.
If you’re looking for a local veterinarian in Dubuque who treats your pets like family, we’d be honored to welcome you to PetMed of Key West.
Call us today at 563-583-8387 or request an appointment online at dbqpetmed.com.