Meet Our Veterinary Team

Veterinarian

Dr. Jill Rigg, DVM, is a dedicated veterinarian who graduated from the University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2004. With a passion for animal welfare, she treats each patient as if they were part of her own family, delivering care with compassion and expertise. Outside of her practice, Dr. Rigg enjoys a vibrant family life with her husband and their three children. They share their home with three beloved dogs, a playful cat, and a charming bearded dragon. Dr. Rigg’s commitment to both her clients and their pets is evident in everything she does, ensuring that each animal receives the highest standard of care.

Practice Manager

Deneen is a Parkland College graduate and has been a certified veterinary technician for 30 years. She has worked in many different aspects of veterinary medicine including emergency/critical care, education, and 15 years at the University of Illinois Small Animal Anesthesia and Analgesia department. At RIAH, she is the Practice Manager where she manages not only our staff but keeps busy with the pets as well. Deneen has a true passion for veterinary medicine and loves coming to work every day. She truly embodies our motto “Veterinary medicine is a work of heart.” When not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family and outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and tubing. She is also quite an amazing cook.

CVT

Ashley began her veterinary journey by completing the Veterinary Assistant Certification program at Black Hawk College, where she developed a deep appreciation for vaccines and routine medical care. This initial training ignited her passion for further education and licensing in the veterinary field.

She pursued advanced studies at Eastern Iowa Community College, earning her certification as a Veterinary Technician after passing the national board exam.

With experience working with livestock, exotic animals, and everything in between, Ashley has a special place in her heart for feline companions. Her professional interests focus on surgery, analgesia, and emergency and critical care, reflecting her dedication to providing exceptional care across a wide range of veterinary needs.

CVT

Kalynn is one of our skilled Certified Veterinary Technicians, having joined Rock Island Animal Hospital in February 2013. She graduated with an associate’s degree in applied science from Muscatine Community College in May 2012 and successfully passed her national board exams shortly after.

Kalynn has a special fondness for Beagles, Australian Cattle Dogs, Pit Bulls, and all the red-headed pets who share her vibrant spirit. Her professional interests include dentistry, nutrition, and ensuring every fur baby receives plenty of love and care.

At home, Kalynn shares her life with her dog, Melmin, and two cats, Izzy and Tina. In her spare time, she enjoys being with her son, friends, and family.

CVT

Sayde’s passion for animals began early, growing up on a farm in Colona, IL, surrounded by horses, chickens, dogs, cats, and a donkey. Her lifelong dream of working with animals led her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.

As a Certified Veterinary Technician, Sayde graduated from Black Hawk College in 2020 with an Associate’s in Applied Sciences and passed the Veterinary Technician National Exam later that year. She joined the RIAH team in 2017 as a veterinary assistant and has since earned her CVT designation.

Sayde particularly enjoys monitoring anesthesia and assisting in surgeries. She has a special fondness for large breed dogs, especially St. Bernards, and shares her home with her own St. Bernard, Cooper, and two cats, Tigger and Roo.

Currently residing in Reynolds, IL, with her husband Gabe, Sayde spends her free time decorating her home, hosting game nights, and exploring new coffee shops.

CVT

Brock hails from the small town of Sherrard, Illinois. He graduated from the Black Hawk East Veterinary Technology Program in 2021 and became a Certified Veterinary Technician in August 2022. With a deep passion for veterinary nutrition, Brock aims to specialize in this field to enhance the well-being of his patients through their diet.

In his free time, Brock enjoys a variety of activities including hunting white-tailed deer, fishing, hitting the gym, and belting out his favorite tunes at karaoke events in the Quad Cities. He is a fan of Star Wars, Pokémon, wolves, and the Chicago Bears, proudly displaying his loyalty with tattoos of both wolves and the Bears. Brock is also the proud owner of two leopard geckos, Hex and Jackie Frost, and hopes to add a Maine Coon to his family in the near future. His commitment to his patients is evident in his genuine care and enthusiasm for veterinary medicine.

Client Care Representative

Christina’s passion for animals began at a young age, with a furry companion always by her side. She embarked on her veterinary career in 2017 as a client service representative, eventually advancing to office manager at a nearby clinic. Today, she serves as a client care representative at Rock Island Animal Hospital (RIAH), where she continues to share her love for animals.

Born and raised in the heart of Rock Island, Christina now resides in Silvis with her husband, Noah, and their four beloved pets. Aria, a red Siberian Husky, and three small but spirited dogs—Tuxedo and Chili, both chihuahua-pug mixes, and Fettuccine, a chihuahua—keep her busy and entertained. In her free time, Christina enjoys crafting and making the most of the warm weather.

Client Care Representative

Mekayla has always had a deep passion for animals, knowing from a young age that she wanted to build a career in this field. Growing up in a bustling household with six siblings—three boys and three girls—she was used to a lively environment with never a dull moment.

Her journey began with volunteering at local shelters, and at 19, she started working at a boarding facility where she quickly rose to the role of manager. She thrived in this setting, enjoying the chance to meet new pets and their owners, build lasting relationships, and watch the animals grow and flourish.
After more than five years in boarding, Mekayla transitioned to the veterinary side of things and has spent the past 4.5 years as a client care representative. In addition to her extensive hands-on experience, she is also a certified veterinary assistant.

Mekayla currently resides in Moline, IL, with her two dogs, Peach (a chihuahua) and Luna (a shih tzu mix), and her chunky cat, Mans. In her free time, she loves staying active, exploring thrift stores for antiques, and discovering charming towns. She also enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking with her dogs, and traveling whenever possible.