About Five Cities Veterinary Hospital
Five Cities Veterinary Hospital was opened in May of 2007 by Drs. Gerrit and Kimberly Berg. Together, they had a vision for a veterinary hospital that provided compassionate, high-quality care in a positive and friendly environment where pets are treated like family members. Having both grown up as avid animal lovers, they understood the value and importance of the bond between pets and owners. Drs. Berg sought to create a veterinary hospital where this bond would be honored and where pets and their owners alike could feel their unique needs were being met.
Meet the FCVH Team
Gerrit Berg, DVM
Originally from Minnesota, Dr. Gerrit attended undergraduate at Saint Johns University earning a degree in biology. He then served 3 years in Thailand with the Peace Corp before deciding to return to complete his education at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. He initially worked in the equine industry and spent 5 years at Alamo Pintado Equine Medical Center in Los Olivos as the primary anesthesiologist and ultrasonographer. He decided to transition to small animal medicine shortly after his first daughter was born so that he could have more time at home with family. Dr. Gerrit has special interests in soft tissue surgery, breeding, and dentistry. In his free time he enjoys fishing, hiking, basketball and spending time with his family.
Kimberly Berg, DVM
Dr. Kimberly is a native Californian who grew up in the greater Los Angeles area. She attended undergraduate school at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where she earned a BS in biochemistry. She then went on to UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine completing her education in 1999. Since then she has worked at a number of veterinary hospitals up and down the Central Coast as a relief veterinarian up until the opening of Five Cities Veterinary Hospital in 2007. Dr. Kimberly has special interests in internal medicine, ultrasonography, feline overpopulation management and preventative medicine. In her free time she enjoys horseback riding, singing, knitting, hiking and being a mom to their three daughters.
Mellisa Hindman, Registered Veterinary Technician
I grew up on the Central Coast and went to AGHS. I played lots of Softball over the years, catching is my favorite position. I have 3 cats: 2 seniors, Kahlaa & Macky, and our baby, Lucy, that’s 1 year old. I’m an RVT with a degree from Pima Medical Institute. I love all animals and feel truly blessed to be a part of this industry.
Kristen Alliani, CSR
I love working with FCVH! The experience with all the different dogs and cats with such distinct personalities has given me the tools to give the care my animals at home need and deserve! I have 2 dogs, a crazy 1 year old husky and an old lady Queensland heeler. I also have 3 cats that range from complete cuddle bugs to the cutest little monsters!
Neely Tartaglia, CSR
I am originally from the Central Coast and though I primarily grew up in rural Nevada, I spent most of my summers back here helping out on the family cattle ranch. I have always had a soft spot for animals, big and small. I have two dogs, Makita and Thunder, and one cat, Penelope, who I’m pretty sure thinks she’s a dog, too. In my spare time I enjoy artistic endeavors, reading, gardening, and I also have a small handmade soap business.
Danika Cornejo, CSR
I grew up on the Central Coast and am lucky enough to continue to call the area home! My family has owned several cats over the years, and that sparked my initial interest in animal care. I’m a recent Cal Poly SLO graduate with a degree in Marine Science; while passionate about marine conservation and policy, I continued to find myself gravitating towards caring for animals at various shelters in the area. Finding a place here at Five Cities Veterinary Hospital has been extremely rewarding for that part of me that wants pets to get the help they need! When I’m not at the clinic, I’m either writing, drawing, reading a fantasy novel, or out on a nature walk enjoying the sights.
Michele Chavez, Veterinary Assistant
My passion and interest in the veterinary field sparked as early and I can remember. I first pursued working with animals in 2021, and now have the pleasure and privilege of providing the best possible care for your pets at Five Cities Veterinary Hospital! I couldn’t see myself doing anything else. My favorite things to do when I’m not at the clinic is traveling, hiking, and spending time with my Jack Russell mix Lucy.
Alexa Lopez, Veterinary Assistant
I am a recent Cal Poly graduate with a degree in animal science, and I aspire to become a future vet! I love interacting with the animals and gaining new knowledge in such a fun and enlightening practice! My hobbies include hanging out with my sweet kitty, Smino, arts and crafts, enjoying nature, and listening to music.