Our Doctors

Dr. Merk, originally from New Jersey, is a 2001 graduate of Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. 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 and is a member of the American Association of Feline Practitioners. She currently resides in West Des Moines with her husband Jason, her son Wyatt, her daughter Emily, her 2 nutty cats: Willow and Hotdog, her stunningly cute rescue Pomeranian, Nugget, and her two squeaky guinea pigs: Rose and Violet. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family.

Dr. Melissa Kobberdahl joined Ashworth Animal Hospital in July 2015. Originally from West Des Moines, Dr. Kobberdahl is a 1991 Valley High School graduate. She completed her Bachelor degree in Psychology and a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University in 2001. After practicing for more than 10 years near Chicago, she decided to move back to Iowa to be near family. She currently resides in West Des Moines with her son Dylan, and four Border Collies: Floss, Swirl, Storm and Sky. Her interests include playing piano, showing dogs, stained glass projects and sheepdog trials.

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.