Meet the Veterinarians & Team of Riverbend Pet Hospital in Hastings! We’re pleased to provide exceptional vet care for your pets!
Please call us at 651-437-2175 to speak to one of our caring veterinary staff members!
Dr. Nonda Pappelis graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 1996. Having been born in Rochester, MN, and having lived in Winona as well, Dr. Nonda dreamed of returning to his home state of Minnesota. After many years of practice in south Florida, he finally ventured back with his family and partner to purchase Riverbend Pet Hospital in the beautiful river town of Hastings in 2007.
Dr. Nonda enjoys his time off with family and friends exploring Minnesota, visiting parks and beaches, especially the North Shore. He also enjoys barbequing, hiking, snowtubing, snorkeling and spending time with family pets – Pebbles, Nutmeg and Dino
Education: University of Florida
Dr. Tammy Kidd Pappelis graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 1996. After many years of practice in south Florida, she and her family relocated to Minnesota where she and her husband, Dr. Nonda, purchased Riverbend Pet Hospital in 2007.
Dr. Tammy enjoys spending time with her family and pets, participating in their favorite activities which include barbequing, swimming and hiking.
Education: University of Florida
Brianne joined Riverbend Pet Hospital in September 2007 after completing a three-month internship at the clinic. She is a Certified Veterinary Technician who graduated from Argosy University with an Associate’s Degree in Veterinary Technology in 2007.
When she isn’t at the clinic, she enjoys gardening, sports, classic car shows and spending time with her family.
Education: Argosy University, Twin Cities
Melissa, a Certified Veterinary Technician, graduated from Globe University with an A.A.S. Degree in Veterinary Technology in 2008 and started at Riverbend in January of 2009.
She enjoys spending time with her daughter and family.
Education: Globe University, Woodbury
Nicole graduated in 2010 from Globe University in Woodbury, MN with an A.A.S. degree. She completed a 3 month internship and was then hired by Riverbend in December 2009. She has wanted to be a veterinary technician since she was 12 years old.
She has 2 cats (Bandicoot and Baby). In the summer she enjoys having bonfires and going camping with her family. In the winter, Nicole goes snow tubing and skiing whenever she gets the chance.
Education: Globe University, Woodbury
Amanda joined Riverbend Pet Hospital in March of 2016. When she is not at the clinic, she enjoys spending time with her family, playing violin, going to dog parks, and being involved in sports. Amanda has two dogs, who both love to run and play outside with her as well.
Kelsey joined the Riverbend staff in September of 2022. She is currently enrolled in the veterinary technician program at Dakota County Technical College (DCTC) in Rosemount MN, and will be graduating fall of 2024. Kelsey grew up with animals all her life and always knew she wanted to work with them. She has two cats at home, Darbie & Ivy. In her spare time she enjoys going to car shows, fishing, watching her neighbor’s horses, and spending time with family & friends.
Des joined Riverbend Pet Hospital in July of 2023. She graduated from King’s College in North Carolina with an associates degree in business administration back in 2004 & transitioned into veterinary medicine in 2020. When she isn’t working, she enjoys traveling, hiking, attending MN Wild games & watching true crime shows with her boyfriend, Josh. They have a 10 year old chihuahua, Priscilla who they love spoiling rotten!
