Meet the Team
Dr. Alison Brendel
Founder
Dr. Alison, the founder of Horse Sense Vet, grew up in eastern Washington with a love of animals and indoctrinated on James Herriot. She has tirelessly dedicated herself to providing affordable, family-style veterinary care with a personal touch. With years of experience in small animal reproduction and being a breeder herself, Dr. Alison has fostered a special passion for helping ethical breeders bring in the next generations of their beloved dogs. Another special interest, born of years of pet training and behavior modification, is helping owners understand their pets and making the most of their partnership. These specialties are offered in addition to comprehensive wellness and soft tissue surgical practice.
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Her mission is to make high-quality veterinary services accessible to every pet owner, without losing the warmth and compassion that families deserve. Dr. Alison believes in building lasting relationships with both pets and their people, ensuring every visit feels like coming to a trusted friend, rather than just another clinic.
When she’s not caring for patients, Dr. Alison enjoys spending time outdoors with her own pets including dogs, cats, horses, mules and a pet Ox. She also supports purebred dogs groups as well as local dog and cat rescues. Her love for animals and her community is at the heart of everything she does, and she looks forward to welcoming you and your furry family members to Horse Sense Vet.
Kasey Ellwanger
Veterinary Assistant
Kasey is a dedicated Veterinary Assistant at Horse Sense Vet who brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and enthusiasm to her role. A Southridge High School graduate (Class of 2001), Kasey went on to serve in the U.S. Army before returning home in 2006. Driven by her love for animals, she attended grooming academy and launched a successful career as a professional dog groomer. In 2017, Kasey expanded her journey in animal care by stepping into the veterinary field—balancing both grooming and veterinary work ever since.
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Kasey’s transition into veterinary medicine was fueled by a desire to grow and deepen her understanding of animal health. Her grooming background gave her strong handling skills and a unique foundation that translated seamlessly into veterinary care. When she became Dr. Brendel’s full-time assistant, Kasey knew she had found her calling. She thrives on the variety of cases, the constant opportunity to learn new skills, and the collaborative environment of veterinary medicine.
Outside of work, Kasey is supported by her loving husband and adult daughter. She shares her home with a joyful collection of dogs, cats, and reptiles, and loves spending her free time with them. Her hobbies include weekend barbecues with friends and creating wire-wrapped art. Kasey’s passion for animals and commitment to care make her a vital part of the Horse Sense Vet team.
Beverly Payne
Clinic Mom | Horse Sense Vet
Beverly Payne has been a cherished member of the Horse Sense Vet team since the fall of 2022, serving as the clinic’s “Clinic Mom.” Having lived in the area for most of her life, Beverly is deeply rooted in the community, with family ties that keep her close to home.
Her journey into the veterinary field began with a desire to help and learn something new. She quickly discovered that working with animals is a continuous learning experience—one that she wholeheartedly embraces. Beverly knew she was in the right profession when she realized that even after clocking out, she still found herself thinking about the clinic’s patients, ensuring their well-being remained a priority.
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Outside of work, Beverly enjoys a full and vibrant life with her husband, their five children, and a lively household of nine four-legged companions. She has a passion for all things creative and finds joy in artistic pursuits. A true admirer of nature, she loves the soothing presence of the rain.
Beverly’s caring spirit and dedication make her an invaluable part of the Horse Sense Vet team, where she continues to support both patients and colleagues with warmth and enthusiasm.