Meet Our Team
A dedicated veterinary team for livestock and companion animals
Meet Our Team
A dedicated veterinary team for livestock and companion animals
About Us
Since 1965, Herd Health Management has been a leader in veterinary care in Arizona. Established by the esteemed Dr. John Woods, DVM, our practice initially served the dairy industry. Dr. Woods laid the cornerstone for a practice synonymous with excellence in large animal veterinary care. In 1973, Dr. McClure joined our team, followed by Dr. Lunt in 1979. Their exceptional expertise strengthened our commitment to providing quality veterinary services for large animals. In 1997, Dr. Kennedy’s extensive experience and passion for animal well-being further solidified our reputation in dairy veterinary services. The arrival of Dr. Holmes in 2005 marked a new chapter, bringing fresh perspectives and a commitment to innovation.
Recognizing the community’s diverse needs, we expanded our services in 2008 to include backyard animals, allowing us to connect with a broader range of animal lovers. In 2023, we expanded our services to include small animals, reflecting our dedication to delivering excellence in care to pets of all sizes. This significant milestone highlights our unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of all animals.
Today, headquartered in Gilbert, Arizona, Herd Health Management operates mostly as a mobile large animal veterinary practice with companion animal services for cats and dogs. Our mission remains to provide the highest quality veterinary care, supported by a legacy of experience and a forward-thinking approach.
As we look to the future, our dedication to providing compassionate and comprehensive veterinary care to Arizona’s remarkable animals remains steadfast. We take immense pride in our legacy and are eager to continue our journey, ensuring the health and happiness of animals, both large and small.
Our Team
Dr. Kennedy, DVM
Veterinarian
Upon his return from his two-year Church Mission to Jamaica, Dr. Kennedy enrolled at BYU for his undergraduate degree. While at BYU, he met and married his wife, Jammie. They have been married for 30 years. Upon graduating from BYU with a BS in Animal Science, he and Jammie moved to Davis, CA, where he earned his degree in Veterinary Medicine, specializing in large animals, mainly dairy cows. While at UC Davis, Dr. Kennedy and Jammie welcomed their first child. At Davis, prior to graduation, Dr. Kennedy interviewed with Herd Health Management to join their growing business. He has been with Herd Health Management for 27 plus years and has loved almost every minute, the exceptions being the occasional injuries that come with “doctoring” large animals.
Dr. Kennedy has established a reputation as an expert in dairy record analysis, reproductive management and calf programs, mastitis, dairy welfare issues, and training programs for dairy workers. Because of his knowledge, he now consults and is licensed in Arizona, New Mexico, Missouri, Nebraska, and California. He is a current AVMA, AABP, NMC, DCRC, DCHA, and DCWC member.
In his spare time (of which he has very little as he does not understand the concept of “free time”), Dr. Kennedy enjoys learning about and expanding his knowledge of the history of WWII. He has a special interest in the Pacific Theater of Operations. He has a wide range of interests; put anything in front of him, and he will read it and remember it.
Dr. Kennedy is family-oriented and enjoys spending time with his wife and children, including three grown children. He especially enjoys family activities, being in his church, traveling, and camping. He and his family reside in Mesa, AZ.
Dr. Holmes, DVM
Veterinarian
Dr. Holmes graduated from the University of California, Davis in 1999 with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree with a food animal medicine emphasis. He worked at Lander Veterinary Clinic in Turlock, California from 1999-2005 before coming to Herd Health Management in March 2005.
He started Gila River Veterinary Services, LLC in 2013 to focus on backyard food, animal veterinary medicine, and husbandry. He currently works at Herd Health Management and Gila River Veterinary Services. He resides in Buckeye, Arizona with his wife and children.
Dr. Holmes is currently licensed in Arizona, California, Idaho, and Utah. He is a current member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP), American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV), and American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners (AASRP).
In practice, Dr. Holmes is interested in husbandry, food, animal medicine, and population health. He works predominantly with dairy cattle and swine and has expanded into doing beef cattle, goats, and sheep (including show livestock).
Dr. Holmes assists with livestock shows as his schedule allows. In 2015, he was the show veterinarian for the Arizona National Livestock Show.
Dr. Ritz, DVM
Veterinarian
Meet Dr. Montana Ritz, a seasoned veterinarian hailing originally from the picturesque landscapes of Pennsylvania. Her educational journey commenced at the University of Alabama before she found her academic home at Midwestern University, where she earned her esteemed doctorate.
Beyond the clinic, Dr. Ritz thrives in the great outdoors, indulging in the joys of hiking, kayaking, and fishing. She discovered Arizona to be a haven for all these pursuits, and it quickly became her preferred backdrop for adventures. In the serene moments, she cherishes quality time with her cats, Hannah and Piper.
Dr. Ritz recently brought her passion for goats, pigs, and cows to Herd Health Management. With aspirations to one day own these incredible animals, she adds a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to our team. Join us in welcoming Dr. Montana Ritz, a dedicated professional with a heart for veterinary care and a soul at peace in the beauty of Arizona.
Dr. Casteron, DVM
Veterinarian
Meet Dr. Darryl Casterton, a seasoned veterinarian with roots deeply embedded in the rural landscapes of Northern Idaho. She spent her formative years there tending to cattle and horses on her family’s farm. In 2021, Dr. Casterton graduated from Washington State University and, alongside her husband Lucas, relocated to the sunny confines of San Tan Valley.
While Dr. Casterton’s passion for large animal medicine knows no bounds, she has always harbored a special affinity for the care of cattle and horses. In her practice, she finds particular joy in beef cattle herd management, cattle reproduction, and various facets of equine reproduction, including artificial insemination and embryo transfer. Dr. Casterton is also a certified veterinary chiropractor.
Beyond the clinic, Dr. Casterton embraces Arizona’s outdoor lifestyle, relishing every moment in the sun. Her family, which includes her husband Lucas, son Trace, her beloved cows, horses, dogs (Millie and Chassis), and cat Smudge, keeps her busy when she’s not at work. Dr. Casterton’s favorite place is on her horse, a passion she shares with her husband, as they devote their spare time to raising colts and practicing roping.
Dr. Cubbage-Adams, DVM
Veterinarian
Meet Dr. Samantha Cubbage-Adams, a passionate veterinarian with roots in a charming Virginia farm. She earned both her undergraduate and veterinary degrees at Virginia Tech in the scenic setting of Blacksburg, VA. Following her academic journey, Dr. Adams set her sights on Arizona, joining the esteemed Herd Health Management team.
Dr. Adams possesses a profound love for all facets of large animal medicine, showcasing expertise in small ruminant, pig, beef/dairy, chicken, and equine care. Her dedication extends beyond the clinic, where she actively engages with the community through volunteering for 4-H and FFA. Dr. Adams finds joy in imparting knowledge to the next generation of veterinarians and farmers, contributing to the growth of the agricultural community.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Dr. Adams cherishes moments with her family, sharing her life with her husband, Brad, and a delightful array of animals. The great outdoors beckon her, where camping and hiking adventures with their beagle, Cheyenne, and trail rides in the San Tans with her horse, Chief, create treasured memories. Dr. Samantha Cubbage-Adams embodies a commitment to animal well-being, education, and a fulfilling life in the heart of Arizona.
Meet the Herd Health Management team, providing mobile large animal and companion animal care in Gilbert, San Tan Valley, Mesa, Buckeye, and the surrounding Arizona areas.
