Our veterinarians

Meet Our Amazing Team

Our dedicated staff is our A team, our ace in the hole, and our dream team—all people who believe in helping animals and making a difference. Click here to meet our amazing doctors, technicians, and support staff.

Dr. Kristen Talbott

Veterinarian

Kristen graduated from Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2006. Along with working at Helping Hands, she practices equine emergency medicine locally. While in Virginia Dr. Talbott has practiced at a high-volume spay/neuter clinic and general practice hospital for the Richmond (low-income) community. She is an avid photographer and artist. Her current project is renovating their city home built in 1903! Dr. Talbott is active in international veterinary volunteer groups and has traveled many times to Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Dr. Kristen has a soft spot for giant breed dogs and is a long-time Great Dane rescuer/owner.

Elaina

Practice Manager

Elaina came to work at Helping Hands at first as a volunteer. Her own dog needed veterinary care, and in exchange for care, she offered to volunteer to answer the phones when Helping Hands first opened. It wasn’t long before she was a full-time member of the team (and our first official employee!). Elaina fit right in with the enthusiasm, spirit, and ethics of what Helping Hands is all about. She has grown with us through the years, starting as our very first receptionist and now holding the title of Practice Manager. Her unyielding devotion and passion for our mission have helped us become who we are today. You will feel her kindness and warmth not only when you meet her, but even through the phone when you call. Elaina was born and raised on the South side of Richmond. She is mom to Bo and Petunia.

Dr. Kevin Sanada

Veterinarian

Dr. Sanada is originally from Reno, NV and graduated Veterinary School at Colorado State University in 2011. A military veteran of the U.S. Army and Airforce. He has a great deal of experience with working dogs, shelters and private practice. His career has taken him many places throughout the world to include Africa, Southwest Asia, India, Fiji, and New Zealand. Surgery and dentistry have always been an important part of his practice that he enjoys. His unique experiences have helped him to offer practical solutions when resources are limited. Dr. Sanada loves the beauty of Virginia and the many experiences Richmond has to offer. He enjoys many different activities, but ice hockey is his favorite thing to do.

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