Meet Our Team

Brazos Animal Hospital is proud to serve the Mineral Wells, Texas area for everything pet related. Our veterinary clinic and animal hospital is run by owners Marlena Smith, DVM and Heather Hester, DVM. Our team keeps everything running smooth day in and day out and treat each patient with top rated care. We are committed to educating our clients on how to keep your pets healthy year round with annual wellness visits, good nutrition, and preventative care. Brazos Animal Hospital stays on top of the latest advances in veterinarian medicine, as well as offering alternative options for your pet’s care. Know that your pet will be treated with loving care in every visit, procedure, or surgery.

  • Heather Hester, DVM

    My husband Levi and I grew up and currently live in Millsap. We have 2 little boys, Jack and Jameson. We have 3 dogs; Dice, Utah, Lady and a one-eye cat named Sully. I received my Bachelor's degree in Animal Science from Tarleton State University in 2008 and went to veterinary school at Texas A&M University. I was trained in veterinary acupuncture at the Chi Institute in 2015. I enjoy traveling, trail running, and spending time outdoors with my family on our small farm.

  • Marlena Smith, DVM

    I have lived in Mineral Wells for 17 years with my husband, Philip who was born and raised here. We have a beautiful daughter Audrey, 3 dogs: Ruthie Jo, Buddy, and Sniper. I am U.S Navy Veteran. After receiving my Bachelor's degree from Tarleton State University, I received my Doctorate of veterinary medicine from Texas A&M University. I also trained in veterinary acupuncture at Chi Institute in 2015 and became a Veterinary Medical Manipulation Practitioner in 2021. When I'm not at the clinic I enjoy hiking, yoga, gardening, and spending time with my family.

  • Jonna, Practice Manager

    Coming soon

  • Kelsey, Technician

    Kelsey started as a kennel technician with Brazos Animal Hospital in 2014. She became a veterinary technician in 2018. After graduating from Mineral Wells High School, she earned her certification as a veterinary assistant through Penn Foster College.

    "The staff is very well educated and know what they're doing," she says of Brazos Animal Hospital. "I trust them with my own animals."

    Outside of work, Kelsey keeps busy with her son and three dogs - a Pit Bull named Jase, a Basset Hound named Coon, and a Blue Heeler named Deuce. She also works with the H3R rescue group to assist with rescuing and rehoming herding dog breeds.

  • Nikole, Technician

  • Erle, Technician

    Coming soon

  • Carissa, Technician

    Coming soon

  • Shawn, Kennel Technician

    Coming soon

  • Dawn, Groomer

    Dawn has been grooming for 10 years and has a wealth of experience. She is a Mineral Wells, Texas native and is passionate about grooming and loves dogs.

  • Savannah, Client Service Representative

    Savannah , one of our exceptional receptionists, has been a full time member of the Brazos Animal Hospital staff since August of 2016. Having worked in the animal field for over 14 years, Savannah began her career at Bowie Drive Animal Hospital, later moving on to work with North Texas Veterinary Hospital. We are now proud to say that Savannah is now hard at work here for us at Brazos.

    While at home, Savannah likes to hang out with friends and family. She can be found watching the Texas Rangers and the Dallas Cowboys whenever there is a game. She has a Matlipoo, named Sophie, who is happy to keep her company at home.

  • Jodi, Kennel technician