Mandi Blackwelder, DVM
Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP)
Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA)
Veterinary Cannabis Counselor (VCC)
Dr. Mandi has never been particularly interested in doing things simply because “that’s the way we’ve always done them.” Over more than 25 years in veterinary medicine—and 11 years building Healing Arts Animal Care—her career has increasingly focused on finding better ways to relieve pain, restore function, and make veterinary care a place where animals feel safe, heard, and respected.
Originally from Boulder, Colorado, Dr. Mandi earned her bachelor’s degree in Microbiology from Colorado State University and her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 1998. Her career began in dairy medicine before she found her home in small animal practice in Grants Pass, Oregon. An early interest in integrative medicine led to certification in veterinary acupuncture through Colorado State University in 2002, followed by certification as a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) through the University of Tennessee in 2013. Rehabilitation ultimately changed the direction of her career and led to the creation of Healing Arts Animal Care.
Dr. Mandi became a Certified Cannabis Counselor in 2019, opening another avenue for helping patients with pain and complex chronic conditions. In 2024, she became Low Stress Handling Certified, followed by certification of the entire Healing Arts facility in 2025. Of all her professional accomplishments, this is one of the things that makes her proudest. She believes the old ways of simply getting veterinary procedures done are no longer good enough. Animals deserve a voice in their care, and veterinary medicine can create environments where patients feel safe, develop trust, and actually enjoy coming through the door.
In 2026, Dr. Mandi is adding Certified Canine Strength and Conditioning Coach (CSCC) to her credentials, continuing a career-long habit of learning new ways to help animals move and feel better.
She is also one of those unusual people who genuinely loves public speaking. Dr. Mandi speaks locally to veterinarians, veterinary technicians, trainers, and pet owners about rehabilitation, veterinary cannabis, pain management, and Low Stress Handling, with the goal of making these approaches more accessible to animals well beyond the walls of HAAC.
Outside the clinic, life is every bit as full. Dr. Mandi and her husband, Donald, have two sons. Their oldest, Porter, is an avid mountain bike racer and active in the local mountain biking community. Their youngest, Jackson, has Fragile X syndrome and has shaped an entirely different part of his mom’s life: advocacy. Jackson has taught Dr. Mandi the importance of listening closely to those who may not always be able to tell us what hurts, what frightens them, or what they need to feel safe. Mandi has always been inclined to stand up for those whose voices may not be the loudest, but motherhood brought out the Mama Bear in full force.
That experience has profoundly shaped the veterinarian Dr. Mandi is today. She wants clients to be heard as the voice and advocate for their pets, patients to have their individual sensory and emotional needs respected, and evidence-based medicine to continually challenge veterinary professionals to do better as the field evolves.
When she isn’t at HAAC or advocating for her son, Dr. Mandi can often be found helping care for her family’s ranch in Lander, Wyoming—and her aging, fiercely independent rancher father who comes with it.
All these years into shaping Healing Arts Animal Care, Dr. Mandi still loves the medicine. But what she is most proud of is the community that has grown around it: a team committed to doing better, clients who trust HAAC with the animals they love, and a veterinary practice built on the belief that excellent medicine and genuine compassion should never have to be separated.
Annessa Morey, PT, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Dr Annessa Morey PT, DPT is completing a Canine Rehabilitation Therapist certification with the Canine Rehabilitation Institute. She earned a B.S. degree in Exercise Science and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Pacific University of Oregon.
Dr. Annessa primarily practiced as an outpatient physical therapist for over 15 years utilizing her manual therapy skills with a focus in geriatric care, fall risk prevention and vestibular care. After 10 years of practice, she set an end goal to be practicing with animals within the next 5 years.
After sixteen years her goal came to fruition when she enrolled in CRI for her certification and completed an internship with Healing Arts Animal Care. Dr. Mandi offered her dream position and the only thought she had for herself was why didn’t I do this five years sooner?
I have always had a connection with animals. I was the kid playing in my back yard grooming and playing parkour with my Keeshond Kip Kon Kipper, pushing my cat Sue in my doll buggy, and getting scolded for bringing home another stray animal. My desire to spend time with animals still exists. At one point my husband started to call me Noah because I kept bringing home animals in twos. A quote that really resonates with me is “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened” – Anatole France
When Dr. Annessa isn’t at HAAC you will find her spending time with her family, keeping her Australian Shepherds Linus and Jasper entertained, cuddling with her two Maine Coon cats Lark and Rue, reading a book, cooking a new recipe, making a bouquet full of roses, watching a film, traveling to Europe, or hiking in nature.
Fun Facts: Dr Annessa has over 60 rose bushes and tries to visit a garden wherever she travels
Amanda Long
Certified Veterinary Technician • Low Stress Handling Certified • Seamstress of All Things Torn
Amanda hails from Michigan, and knew early that animals were “where it’s at” for her. She worked her way up the ranks from kennel assistant, to veterinary assistant while going to school. In 2006, she graduated with honors from Michigan State Eli Broad College of Business with a degree in finance and a certificate in Veterinary Technology. She worked in private practice and then at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University in their oncology department.
When the opportunity to start an oncology department in Oregon arose, she and an oncologist colleague jumped at the chance – she had HAD it with cold Michigan winters! She and her husband Jeff, made the long trip with one dog, 2 cats and a beta fish, including a 4 day stop-over in LaGrande waiting for the pass to open! As if starting and running and oncology clinic was not enough to do, she also completed her Masters in Health Care Administration from Marylhurst University.
After leaving oncology, she worked as a practice manager before returning to her first love, patient care. In 2015, Amanda became a mom to son, Asher, and discovered the REAL love of her life. Never one to be bored, Amanda also is an avid crafter, seamstress, devourer of books, pet mom to dogs Kallie and Penny, 1 cat and 2 beta fish, and despite her pixie size, is a force to be reckoned with on the softball field.
Tanya Bruno
Certified Veterinary Technician • Low Stress Handling Certified
Diva of All Details
Like Dr. Mandi, Tanya started her veterinary career with dairy cows. As a teenager, she lived and worked on farms in Tillamook, Oregon as a relief milker. After enjoying her first baby as a stay-at-home mom, she starting looking for her next adventure. She explored “hats” of different careers but no matter what direction she tried, veterinary technology kept calling her back. She graduated from Portland Community College as a Certified Veterinary technician in 2008. She spent four years as a general practice technician, but truly found her passion in surgery, anesthesia and post-op care. A surprise and joyous detour in 2018 was the birth of her son! Tanya works afternoons at Healing Arts so she can be at home during the day with her son and granddaughter who are the same age!
Tanya finds great pride and joy getting to know each of her patient’s unique personalities while forming a relationship of respect and trust to better care for each of their needs. She takes special note of what each animal likes and doesn’t like — types of touch. She has that calm collected demeanor that makes every patient swoon.
When Tanya isn’t working she revels in her time with her family and enjoys everything outdoors.
Taylor Ayars
Veterinary Assistant – The Oracle of Organization
Taylor grew up in Southern California, where she spent much of her childhood playing sports year-round. Through those experiences, she came to appreciate the incredible impact that physical therapy and alternative therapy can have on healing and recovery. She is excited to make the transition from general practice veterinary care to the rewarding world of veterinary rehabilitation.
Taylor has been working in the veterinary field for quite some time now. She loves building lasting relationships with clients and their pets while helping improve their overall quality of life through compassionate care and client education.
When she’s not at work, Taylor enjoys spending time with her wonderful and supportive husband and their beloved pets. At home, you’ll find her with Ozzy, her handsome and sweet senior dog, and Tuna, her spirited and a bit spicy kitty. Outside of the clinic, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, practicing self-care, and organizing. Organization is one of her favorite hobbies, and creating tidy, functional spaces helps keep both her mind and soul happy.
Rebecca Miles
Veterinary Assistant – Our Human Shot of Espresso
I grew up in Roseburg, Oregon, where animals have always been a big part of my life. I was involved in 4-H for eight years, which gave me countless opportunities to learn about and care for animals—although, interestingly, a career in veterinary medicine wasn’t always the plan!
My career path has taken me through a little bit of everything. I’ve worn plenty of hats over the years, including acting, directing, teaching, customer service, retail, working as a barista, and earning my BA from George Fox University. Before joining Healing Arts Animal Care, I also spent four years in the veterinary field, gaining experience in general practice, urgent care, and reproduction.
My path to Healing Arts began when my own pet started her rehabilitation journey. Through that experience, I discovered rehabilitation medicine and how meaningful it is to help pets live their most comfortable, fulfilling lives. I especially love building relationships with our clients and their pets and being part of a team focused on maintaining the best quality of life possible for every patient. And while I love them all, old lady dogs will always have an extra-special place in my heart.
Outside of the clinic, I live with my partner, Dan, and our two pets: Keynah, a Golden Retriever/Cattle Dog mix, and Killian, our tripod tabby cat. In my free time, you can usually find me spending time with family, hiking, playing disc golf, gaming, or adding to my ever-growing rock collection. I’m a lifelong theater lover and still enjoy seeing plays whenever I get the chance.
One fun fact about me? I’m a five-time Grand Champion goat showman!
Dr. Gieselle Calundre, DVM
Virtual Health Care Associate • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Customer Care Representative • Our Kindness Coordinator
Gieselle is coming through our phone to our clients all the way from the town of Don Carlos in the province of Bukidnon, on the island of Mindanao, in the Philippines. She is the youngest of 3 children raised by a widowed but powerful mother, who is an accounting clerk for the Philippine government. She attended veterinary school on Mindanao and then worked for 2 years at a small animal clinic before joining our team at Healing Arts. She has 3 amazing little pugs, a Husky and a Lab in her household. When she is not working, she spends her time baking, playing volleyball and badminton and watching medical documentaries.
Amari Kent
Kennel Assistant
Amari is the behind-the-scenes force that keeps Healing Arts Animal Care running smoothly. From cleaning and restocking to washing and folding, if it’s fresh, organized, and ready to go, it’s likely Amari’s handiwork.
Born in Fort Hood, Texas, Amari later moved to Oregon and graduated from Merlo High School in Beaverton. Before joining Healing Arts, she worked at Ground Up, a fellow woman-owned company known for its delicious nut butters.
Outside of work, Amari enjoys drawing, playing board games, riding her bike, and spending quality time with her beloved kitties, Kitty and Kimi. Her favorite food is potstickers, her favorite holiday is Christmas, and she comes from a large, close-knit family with two sisters and five brothers.
Isabella Bishop
Client Services Representative
Isabella started working as a Client Services Representative in veterinary medicine in October of 2023. After having worked at two general practice hospitals of varying sizes and services, Isabella was ready for a change of pace and environment, which led her to work at Healing Arts Animal Care! Isabella likes to stay busy at work and is always working to keep things running smoothly for clients in the hospital. Whether it’s booking follow up appointments, managing emails, or handling billing, Isabella is always up to the task.
In her free time Isabella enjoys running and lifting weights, playing video games with her husband, and eating ramen. Isabella is currently training for the Columbia Gorge Half Marathon in October 2026 and has plans to do an Ironman in 2028!
HAAC COLLABORATIVE PARTNERS
After seeing chiropractic care resolve problems that conventional medicine could not, Dr. Mike became certified by the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association in the mid-1990s. He later trained in acupuncture through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, followed by Chinese herbal medicine and food therapy.
Dr. Mike has been part of the Healing Arts Animal Care team since 2016. His practice encompasses horses, dogs, and other species, with a particular passion for performance animals. He combines chiropractic and Chinese medicine to help patients with musculoskeletal and complex medical conditions, injury rehabilitation, pain management, geriatric care, and supportive cancer care, while collaborating closely with each patient’s veterinary and care team.
“Dr Salewski was hand picked because of his experience and gentle treatment methods. Even the spookiest dogs love him! We call him Magic Mike” — Dr. Mandi
Bobbie Lyons, CSCC, CCFT, KPA CTP, Cert CF
Pawsitive Performance • pawsitive-performance.com
Bobbie Lyons is the owner of Pawsitive Performance, LLC and an internationally recognized canine fitness and conditioning instructor. She is Program Director and Lead Instructor for North Carolina State University’s Certified Canine Strength and Conditioning (CSCC) program, through which she teaches students internationally. She is also a University of Tennessee Certified Canine Fitness Trainer and a Certified Training Partner with the Karen Pryor Academy.
Bobbie has been teaching canine conditioning since 2005, with a particular focus on body awareness, strength, proper movement, injury prevention, and canine athletes. Her extensive experience includes agility and other performance sports, assistance dogs, and collaboration with veterinary rehabilitation and sports medicine professionals.
Bobbie is also an important extension of the Healing Arts Animal Care team, providing physiotherapy training and continuing education for our staff. When an HAAC patient needs a very specific movement modification or is ready for the final steps toward returning to sport or higher-level activity, we often refer to Bobbie for those finishing touches.
Quimby Lombardozzi, CSAMT
ResQ Animal Massage • https://www.resqam.
Quimby has always had a special connection with animals, particularly seniors and those with unique physical or behavioral needs. After experiencing firsthand the restorative effects of massage on her own dogs, she pursued professional training at the Northwest School of Animal Massage, earning certifications in foundation/maintenance and rehabilitation massage in 2012. She went on to establish ResQ Animal Massage and has since worked with animals of countless breeds, ages, temperaments, and medical conditions.
Dr. Mandi met Quimby at a Pacific Pug Rescue event in 2015 and immediately knew she needed to find a way to bring her into the Healing Arts family. Quimby has a particular passion for rescued animals and has donated massage services to hundreds of shelter and foster dogs through organizations including the Oregon Humane Society, Multnomah County Animal Services, and Family Dogs New Life Shelter.
Her favorite part of her work remains the connection she develops with each animal and watching them relax into the restorative effects of therapeutic massage.
About Healing Arts Animal Care
Healing Arts Animal Care in Beaverton, Oregon provides veterinary acupuncture, pet rehabilitation therapy, pet rehabilitation and athletic conditioning and Animal Massage Therapy for the dogs and cats of the Portland, Oregon Metro Area including Hillsboro, Lake Oswego, and Tualatin. We strive to create a team among you, your pet, your veterinarian and ourselves to create a whole package of care for your pet including wheelchairs for dogs. Pets come through our door knowing that we’re going to have fun here and this isn’t “another trip to the vet.” Through manual therapies, acupuncture, laser, ultrasound, underwater treadmill and creating a tailored individual home exercises, we strive to bring your injured pet back to speed, keep your elderly pet as an active member of the family, return your obese pet back to a functional friend and keep your athletic pet at the peak of his performance.
