Russell Welfare, DVM

Veterinarian, Owner

To Dr. Russell Wellfare, being a veterinarian is more than a career – it’s a calling.

He is passionate about meeting every animal that comes through our doors and giving them the best service possible. Each day gives him new opportunities to share his knowledge with pet parents, provide low-stress care for his patients, and serve his community.

Advocacy is at the top of Dr. Welfare’s list when serving his patients. As a veterinarian, he can be the voice for those who can’t speak up for themselves. This translates into his dedication to prioritizing the well-being of all animals and giving them the best lives possible.

Dr. Welfare graduated from the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical School in 1995 and completed a surgical internship in 1996. He’s also toured the entire country with his work, gaining a unique perspective every step of the way.

When he’s not at work, he’s known as “Dad.” Dr. Welfare loves spending quality time with his wife and children – especially if it means a trip to the mountains.

Jenna Markel, DVM

Medical Director

Dr. Markel graduated from Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in 2017 and moved to Boston, Massachusetts, to complete a Small Animal Rotating Internship with an emphasis in exotic and emergency medicine in 2018. She then returned to Colorado to pursue a career in general practice medicine.

Dr. Markel is passionate about empowering pet owners of all species to provide their pets with the best possible quality of life. Combining her background in education, love of teaching, and emphasis on evidence-based medicine, Dr. Markel strives to give her patients and their owners the ability to work together to help patients live their healthiest lives and to support the human-animal bond.

When not caring for her patients, you can find Dr. Markel taking care of her garden, painting, and exploring the world through photography.

Gwen Carlson, DVM

Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Carlson graduated from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 1998. She moved to Colorado to complete a Large Animal Internship at the Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Following her internship, Dr. Carlson settled in Colorado Springs.

For seven years, she enjoyed the variety of a mixed animal practice but has devoted her career to caring for small animals since 2006. In 2014, Dr. Carlson joined the team at North Powers Animal Hospital.

Relationships with pets and their people are paramount to Dr. Carlson. She knows that every family she works with has their own unique needs and concerns. She provides patient-centered care and loves tending to the needs of her patients through all stages of life.

Outside of work, Dr. Carlson and her husband have two amazing children and three super cute dogs. She enjoys reading, hiking, cheering for her kids, and traveling.

Kat Peters, DVM

Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Peters graduated from St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2021 and relocated to Colorado Springs from Indiana shortly after. She is looking forward to establishing herself as a veterinarian and working with her clients to provide the best care to her patients.

She is passionate about providing surgical care for patients and educating clients in preventative medicine and how to keep their furry family members healthy. When she is not working, she enjoys hiking with her dog, riding horses, reading books, and spending quality time with her family.

Veterinary Doctors That Care

At North Powers Animal Hospital, our team of compassionate and knowledgeable veterinary doctors dedicates themselves to providing top-quality care. They are experienced veterinarians, animal advocates, and enthusiastic educators. Whether you’re seeking routine check-ups or specialized care for your pet, Dr. Welfare and the North Powers Animal Hospital team are here to help. Call today to schedule an appointment for your pet.

(719) 282-1222

North Powers Animal Hospital has proudly cared for dogs, cats, rabbits, and exotic pets in Colorado Springs, Monument, Falcon, Peyton, Black Forest, Fountain, and Manitou Springs since 2008.

We offer the best in pet wellness care, puppy care and kitten care, senior pet care, exotic pet care, pet preventive medicine and vaccinations, pet dental care, pet diagnostic testing,
pet soft-tissue surgery including spay and neuter,
pet urgent and emergency care, and pet parent education.