Our Doctors

Dr. Merk, originally from New Jersey, is a 2001 graduate of Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine and a 1997 graduate of Skidmore College (BA Biology-Chemistry). She joined Ashworth Road Animal Hospital in September of 2004 and became the practice owner in 2016. She has a special interest in feline medicine, is a member of the American Association of Feline Practitioners, and is a Certified Cat Friendly practitioner. She currently resides in West Des Moines with her husband Jason, her son Wyatt, her daughter Emily, her 2 nutty cats: Hans and Hotdog, her stunningly cute rescue Pomeranian, Nugget, and her 2 funny guinea pigs: Snickers and Twix. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family.

Dr. Sara Niemand joined Ashworth Road Animal Hospital in April 2017. Dr. Niemand grew up in Ames, Iowa and graduated from Iowa State University in 2002 with an Animal Science degree and 2007 with her veterinary degree. She has a special interest in canine physical therapy, pain management, surgery and small exotics. She lives with her dog Calvin and her two cats, Maramalade and Millie. In her free time she enjoys travel, crafts, horseback riding and spending time in the great outdoors.

Dr. Lena Ribbey is a 2019 graduate of Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She grew up in Des Moines and is happy to be practicing in the area. Lena lives with her husband, Teague, two dogs, Breeze and Lars, and four cats: Audrey, Bogart, Clara, and Franklin. In her free time, she enjoys reading, yoga, going to concerts, and visiting zoos. Dr. Ribbey is especially interested in exotic animals, surgery, and preventive medicine.