Rocky Mountain Veterinary Services Staff
Behind every visit is a team that truly cares. Our staff is passionate about providing thoughtful, skilled care for everything from beloved family pets to large ranch animals. We’re honored to support our clients through life’s joyful milestones—welcoming new companions, celebrating recoveries—as well as the more difficult moments that call for guidance, compassion, and trust. Building lasting relationships with both animals and their owners is at the heart of everything we do.
Darby Sullivan, DVM
Dr. Darby Sullivan has been a proud resident of Gunnison County since 1976 and has dedicated her career to caring for the animals and people of this community. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Equine Science from Colorado State University in 1988 and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from CSU in 1993.
After completing her veterinary training, Dr. Sullivan returned to the Gunnison Valley to serve the community she has long called home. In 2003, she founded Rocky Mountain Veterinary Services with the goal of providing compassionate, high-quality veterinary care to animals throughout the region.
With decades of experience, Dr. Sullivan remains committed to supporting the health and well-being of animals while building lasting relationships with the families who care for them. She is widely known for her compassion and can often be found with her French Bulldog sidekick by her side.
Joni Ivy
Joni Ivy is the Practice Manager at RMVS and a Gunnison native. She studied pre-veterinary medicine and exercise science before building a 15-year career in retail management, where she developed a strong foundation in leadership, organization, and client service.
Joni brings that experience to RMVS, helping keep the clinic running smoothly while supporting both the team and the clients they serve. She is passionate about animals and the outdoor lifestyle that makes living in the Gunnison Valley so special.
Kayla Figueroa
Kayla Figueroa is the Office Administrator at Rocky Mountain Veterinary Service and has worked in the veterinary industry for 14 years. She spent 13 years as a veterinary assistant, gaining extensive experience in small animal care and client support.
A longtime resident of Gunnison County, Kayla brings compassion, strong customer service skills, and a deep understanding of veterinary practice to her role. She is dedicated to helping create a welcoming and supportive experience for both clients and their animals.
TeaLa Castle
TeaLa Castle is a Veterinary Assistant who was born and raised in Gunnison and is a fifth-generation Gunnison County resident, giving her a lifelong connection to animals and the local community. She previously worked at Colorado State University in the Equine Reproduction Laboratory, where she gained valuable hands-on experience in equine health and reproduction.
In addition to her work in veterinary medicine, TeaLa is an experienced horse trainer and serves as Vice President of the Cattlewoman’s Association. She brings strong practical experience and a deep appreciation for the animals and people of the Gunnison Valley to her role at Rocky Mountain Veterinary Services.
Renee Lull
Renee is a Certified Veterinary Technician who earned her Associate of Science in Veterinary Technology from Colorado Mountain College in 2026. She is Fear Free Certified and has hands-on experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, livestock, and horses. Born in Gunnison and raised in Arvada, Renee is excited to return to the valley! She grew up participating in the Westernaires, where she gained extensive experience working with horses. She is committed to delivering compassionate, attentive care to every patient she works with.
Justine Mowery
Justine Mowery is a member of the office staff at Rocky Mountain Veterinary Services and was born and raised in Gunnison County. Growing up in a ranching community gave her an early appreciation for animals and the people who care for them.
She is currently studying political science and psychology at Western Colorado University and enjoys being part of a team that supports the health and well-being of animals throughout the Gunnison Valley.
