About Us

Dr. Kirsten Riphagen grew up on a farm in southern Alberta, and graduated from the University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in 2014. She has lived in BC since then. For the first few years in practice she worked in a busy emergency practice in Kelowna, then working in general practice as a locum before starting Uptown Animal Hospital with Dr Cass in 2020. Dr. Riphagen has worked with several volunteer veterinary projects and groups to provide veterinary care to underserved communities in Canada and internationally and has worked very hard to become Level 2 Fear Free certified as well as holds a Low Stress Handling Silver Certification. Dr Kirsten loves to spend time outdoors and with her husband and cat 'Sir Winston'.

Dr. Taryn Cass has been a devoted veterinarian since graduating from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 2006. With a heartfelt passion for nurturing the bond between pets and their people, Dr. Cass believes that every animal deserves individualized care tailored to their unique needs.

In her practice, Dr. Cass prioritizes open dialogue and collaboration with pet owners, ensuring that every decision is made together. She understands that a trusting relationship between caregivers and pet parents is vital for effective care, and she works diligently to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable.

When she’s not at the clinic, Taryn enjoys spending quality time with her own pets and children, exploring the outdoors. Whether it’s a hike in the woods or a stroll through her farm with her family, she cherishes these moments of connection with her furry companions. Dr. Cass looks forward to partnering with you to provide the best care for your beloved pets!

Dr Megan Phillips graduated this year from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatchewan. She grew up in Kelowna and had dreams of being a veterinarian from a young age. She had worked as a summer student at Uptown Animal Hospital last summer and enjoyed it so much she decided to come back. She enjoys spending time with her four cats and fostering kittens. She has a passion for feline medicine.

Dr. Nicole Gostkowski is a compassionate veterinarian dedicated to providing high-touch, low-stress care for pets and their owners. A proud graduate of the University of Melbourne in 2022, Nicole brings a wealth of knowledge and a personal touch to her practice.

Having relocated from Australia, she brought her beloved cat, Pym, along for the journey. Their bond inspires Nicole's commitment to creating a comfortable and trusting environment for every pet that walks through our doors. She believes that a strong relationship between veterinarian, pet, and owner is essential for effective care.

Outside of the clinic, Nicole enjoys exploring the local area, discovering new hiking trails, and meeting fellow pet lovers. Her goal is to ensure that every visit is as stress-free as possible, making both pets and their owners feel at ease. Nicole looks forward to meeting you and your furry family members!

Lindsey graduated her Veterinary Hospital Assistant program in December of 2013. She was born in the Lower mainland and grew up mostly in Kelowna before settling down in the Shuswap. Lindsey’s crew consists of her fiancé Cam, and her two furry, rambunctious, with a zest for life dogs Barley and Beans. They enjoy the outdoors and a variety of activities no matter the season. Lindsey left the Veterinary field for a few years to pursue human health care but came back as her true passion is animal healthcare.

Jacquie was born and raised in Germany and moved to Canada in 2003. She has always had an interest in the veterinary industry and when she was still in Germany she did a practicum at a veterinary clinic and decided that one day she would be in the veterinary field for good.
After moving to Canada and working at a variety of different jobs, Jacquie volunteered at a shelter for a few years further supporting her decision to pursue her dream career in veterinary medicine. She first took a veterinary assistant course and then after several years, moved forward with her education to secure a diploma as a veterinary nurse (RVT). Jacquie graduated from the distance veterinary technician course through Thompson Rivers University at the end of 2019.
During her time away from work Jacquie enjoys riding motorcycles with her partner and snuggling with her 2 cats and 2 dogs.
When asked why Jacquie chose veterinary nursing as a profession she replies, “I have always had a passion for animals and always felt that I wanted to be a voice for them. Providing a voice for my patients, quality care and a positive experience for all animals that walk through our door is my goal.

Brett grew up on a cattle farm, where her fascination with veterinary medicine began. Watching the veterinarian care for the animals sparked a lifelong passion that led her to become a Registered Veterinary Technologist.

Brett is dedicated to helping pet owners better understand their pet’s health and diseases, empowering them to provide the best possible care. She loves being part of a collaborative veterinary team, where working together ensures pets receive the highest standard of care.

Outside of work, Brett stays active and connected to her roots. You’ll often find her on the ice playing hockey or back on the farm, tending to her beloved ducks and chickens. Whether she’s in the clinic, on the farm, or at the rink, Brett brings the same energy and dedication to everything she does.

Favorite Motto: “Caring for animals starts with educating their people.”

Originally from Revelstoke BC, Ashley has lived in Salmon arm for 14 years. She has recently entered the field of Veterinary medicine after a successful career in Wealth Management. Ashley is currently studying to become a Registered Veterinary Technician.
In her free time, Ashley enjoys gardening, beekeeping, hiking, camping, and snowboarding. She is joined on her little hobby farm by her husband, two kids, two cats, a dog, a rabbit, many chickens and honeybees.

Michelle graduated from Thompson Rivers University in 2005, completing the Veterinary Technician program. Even with a passion for veterinary medicine, Michelle has always been up for an adventure, including enjoying her time as a wildland volunteer firefighter in 2003 and traveling to Louisiana for relief work after Hurricane Katrina.
Her love for travel as well as work has provided many Michelle a variety of travel opportunities, allowing her to work in Jasper, Grand Forks and even Newfoundland!
While a large focus of her career was spent in emergency medicine (where she met Dr Cass and Dr Riphagen), Michelle found she wanted to make her career more client focused and this is what brought her to the fabulous Uptown Animal Hospital team! Michelle is an integral part of our in-clinic Veterinary Technician support team as well as our remote support team.

Makayla grew up in Kamloops but spent her summers here at the shuswap with her grandparents and has been enjoying the Salmon Arm lifestyle with her husband for the past 5 years. She grew up as a competitive dancer and has been a dance instructor for 10 years. Working at a variety of different jobs over the years, from day care attendant to sawmill worker, she has always been most happy working with animals. Makayla has a diploma in dog obedience training and used to take dogs on adventure hikes. Makayla was a ranch manager mainly working with horses for 3 years. She has always had an interest in veterinary medcine and helping animals in need and was happy to have the opportunity to come aboard the team at Uptown. In her free time, Makayla enjoys horseback riding, hiking with her husband and 3 dogs, kayaking, and cross country skiing.

Marina is a dedicated veterinary assistant currently completing the Low Stress Handling Silver University program. She recently made the move from Kelowna to Salmon Arm and has been enjoying the adventure of exploring her new surroundings with her little family.

In her free time, Marina loves fishing and hiking with her dog, Elliot, embracing the great outdoors and all it has to offer. Her passion for all things animal has been a lifelong journey, and she is excited to continue this path.

Marina will soon be starting the Veterinary Technician Distance Learning program through Thompson Rivers University, where she will further pursue her career in veterinary medicine with enthusiasm and dedication. Her commitment to providing compassionate, low-stress care to animals is evident in every aspect of her work, and she looks forward to making a positive impact in the field.

Marni didn’t just choose veterinary medicine—veterinary medicine found her. Drawn in by the dynamic, ever-changing nature of the field, she discovered a career that keeps her engaged and mentally stimulated every single day. No two days are the same in veterinary medicine, and that’s exactly why Marni loves it.

Marni has a special passion for helping pets that feel nervous or anxious during their veterinary visits. With her calm demeanor and patient approach, she strives to make every pet feel as comfortable and cared for as possible. Whether it’s offering a gentle touch or finding creative ways to ease their stress, Marni takes pride in turning a scary visit into a positive experience.

With a dedication to learning and providing compassionate care, Marni is an integral part of the veterinary team. Her ability to connect with animals and their families is at the heart of her work, and she’s always ready to tackle whatever challenges the day brings.

Favorite Motto: “Helping pets feel safe is the first step toward healing.”

Maleah is a compassionate and hardworking veterinary assistant with a true passion for helping animals and the people who care for them. Her journey into veterinary medicine was inspired by a lifelong love of animals and her desire to make a meaningful difference in their lives.

When she’s not in the clinic, Maleah spends her time embracing the great outdoors. Whether it’s fishing, hiking, or exploring nature, she’s always accompanied by her beloved dogs, who are her constant companions and greatest source of joy.

Maleah is on an exciting path toward becoming a Registered Veterinary Technologist. She is dedicated to expanding her knowledge and skills to provide even greater care to pets and their families. With her warm personality and unwavering commitment, Maleah is a valued member of our veterinary team!

Favorite Motto: “Caring for animals means caring for the people who love them.”

Taylor grew up in Kelowna and has recently moved to Salmon Arm. She is very excited to explore her new city. She has a love for all animals of any shape, size, and breed. She comes from many years in a health care background but has decided to pursue a career working with animals as well as their owners. In her free time she is often out hiking, camping, snowshoeing, and enjoying the outdoors with her little family and her dog, Ruger.

Cathy grew up in Alberta, but Salmon Arm has been her home for over 12 years. After graduating with a Science degree many years ago, she stepped into the Veterinary field, fell in love with it and has never left! Cathy’s family crew includes two cats, a dog, two horses, a bearded dragon and two teenagers! She cherishes outside time with her family, kayaking, hiking and exploring the fabulous lakes of the Shuswap. That “wet dog” smell gives her joy! Cathy is excited to be part of the Uptown team, serving the furry family members of this great community.

Robyn started her dream career all the way back 1999. Starting out as a kennel assistant, Robyn has been fortunate to experience and work in many areas of the veterinary hospital setting. After a move to the Shuswap, from the lower mainland, she finds so much enjoyment being outside and exploring the lakes and trails of the North Shuswap and surrounding areas.

Born and raised in Salmon Arm, Angela is proud to call the Shuswap her home. Angela’s crew consists of a dog named Harvey, 2 cats – Cardi and Mason and 2 wild children. When not at the office, you can find her either out in the garden, walking her dog on the many trails around Salmon Arm, or painting under the watchful eye of her cat Mason.

Tammi is a relatively new face at Uptown Animal Hospital but I has been around animals and pets ever since she can remember! Growing up, she used to fill her mom’s house with just about any kind of creature needing a new home, from dogs, cats, rabbits, turtles and more. When I am away from her animals at work, she enjoys spending time with her two Frenchie’s, Dexter and Daisy, her German Shephard Harley, her 3 cats and don't forget about her chickens! (which she may have given names to a few..) Tammi has a passion for the outdoors from running and camping to hunting to fishing. She most enjoys spending time with her wonderful family and loving husband out on the lakes and rivers exploring our beautiful province on kayaks and paddleboards.