OUR TEAM
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Dr. Michael Bredehoeft
Dr. Michael Bredehoeft (Dr. B) received his formal training in Hanover, Germany, the second oldest and one of the most prestigious veterinary colleges in the world. He completed numerous internships in Germany as well as Wisconsin. He intensified his training by working with a Veterinary Dentist in Baltimore, and was Chief of Staff at a local emergency hospital for 5 years. His special interests are laser assisted surgery and LigaSure technology, including orthopedics, diseases of the elderly patient (geriatrics), dentistry and emergency medicine. Dr. Bredehoeft shares his home with his wife Barbara and youngest of five children Finley, along with Tessa their young fox red Labrador retriever and Ernie the Norwegian forest cat, who is the ruler of his kingdom. His hobbies include traveling, hiking and mountain climbing, sailing, tennis, jogging and biking. Dr. Bredehoeft is a member and contributing supporter of numerous national and international organizations, including:
- Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society
- Feline Veterinary Medical Association
- American Veterinary Surgical Laser Society
- American Animal Hospital Association
- American Veterinary Medical Association
- German Veterinary Medical Association
- Florida Veterinary Medical Association
- Jacksonville Veterinary Medical Society
He absolutely loves being a vet and cherishes the many close relationships with his clients and their pets that were built over the last 35 years.
Dr. Victoria Nihls, DVM
Dr. Nihls is originally from Long Island, New York. She received her Bachelor's degree from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia, then went on to pursue pre-medical studies at Stony Brook University in New York, and then earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota. Dr. Nihls started her career as a veterinarian in general practice in the Twin Cities then relocated to Florida with her family to practice in the sunshine state.
Dr. Nihls enjoys all aspects of medicine, with a special interest in dentistry, soft tissue surgery and internal medicine. She is USDA accredited and a member of the American, Florida and Jacksonville Veterinary Medical Associations.
When not working, Dr. Nihls enjoys running, cooking and spending time with her family, which includes her husband, Brian, their two young sons, Gordon and Howard, and their furry feline companion, Jonsi.
Dr. Rachel Benmoha, DVM
Dr. Benmoha was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida and she knew from the time she was very young that she wanted to be a veterinarian. She began volunteering at small animal clinics and shadowing veterinarians by the time she was 12. After graduating from high school, Dr. Benmoha attended the University of Florida where she earned her bachelor's degree in animal science, followed by her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Benmoha began her career in equine medicine before deciding to transition into small animal practice. Her professional interests include diagnostic imaging, dermatology, and surgery. She is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association as well as the Florida Veterinary Medical Association.
Dr. Benmoha finds the partnership with her clients especially rewarding. She enjoys helping guide them as they are starting out with a new pet or working through any obstacles during the lifespan of their animal. When she is not working, she enjoys horseback riding, spending time with her husband, Abe, and caring for the animals on their small farm.
Dr. Christine Cunningham
Dr. Christine Cunningham grew up in rural western New York. Growing up with horses, dogs and cats she always knew she wanted a career caring for animals. In high school, she moved to Florida and in June of 2000 started working at Switzerland Animal Hospital as a technician!
She graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences from the University of Florida and went on to graduate from Purdue University with her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2008.
Her professional interests include dermatology, internal medicine and the care of geriatric pets. She is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Jacksonville Veterinary Medical Society.
She has worked at practices in North Carolina and Tennessee but has always been drawn back to Saint Johns. When Dr. Cunningham is not at work, she enjoys running, hiking and cheering on her 3 kids at their sporting events with her husband. She also has a 6 year old German Shorthair Pointer mix who is a bundle of energy and shares her love for running!
About Us
what is Switzerland Animal Hospital?
Switzerland Animal Hospital is a modern veterinary clinic in Saint Johns, FL, dedicated to delivering exceptional care in a compassionate, professional setting.
Our vision is to be St. Johns County’s most progressive animal hospital by offering advanced medicine, affordable pricing, and lasting client relationships.
Pet owners choose us for our competence, compassion, and convenience—with easy access, ample parking, and a team that truly cares.
EXCEPTIONAL CARE & SERVICE
ABOUT THE TEAM
At Switzerland Animal Hospital, we are committed to delivering top-notch veterinary care for your beloved pets. Our compassionate team is always eager to assist with any questions or concerns you may have while at our clinic, and we genuinely enjoy connecting with our clients to make you and your furry companions feel at ease. From our front desk staff to our experienced veterinarians and dedicated support staff, we work in harmony to provide exceptional service at every stage of your pet's healthcare journey.
Liz
Liz moved from Maine to Florida in 2018, and Joined the SAH family in August 2024. Ever since childhood, she has nurtured a deep love for all creatures. Liz is dedicated to combining her deep passion for animal welfare with compassionate, professional care.
Heather
Heather joined the Switzerland family in October 2024, but has been working with animals since 2021, with experience in boarding and high-volume surgery. Growing up surrounded by animals and fostering led her to rescue several of her own. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, going to the gym, and chasing sunsets with her dog, Moose.
Amanda
Amanda has been a vet tech for over 20 years. She has extensive experience in emergency medicine, critical care nursing, and surgery. She also spent 15 years as a wildlife rehabber focusing mostly on birds of prey.
Steve
Steve has lived in North Florida his entire life. He is married with two children and his best friend Toby. Steve is very excited to be a part of the SAH family since January of 2022. The best part is, it allows him to meet all the new fur babies that come in for visits.
Lisa M.
Lisa joined the Switzerland Family in December 2022. She is a California native who recently relocated to Florida. Lisa has 15 years of animal experience, a large amount of that in a rescue setting. She is married with 2 sons. In her free time she is an avid gardener.
Christine
Christine is a native of St. Augustine, Florida. She has been working in veterinary hospitals for over 15 years. She joined the Switzerland family in June of 2021. While she is not at work, she enjoys spending time with her two children and husband.
Lisa
Lisa joined Switzerland family in Feb 2020. She is originally from New Jersey.
When she isn't working with her favorite people at SAH, she is constantly busy with her two children, Alexis and Patrick. Lisa and her family enjoy taking care of their two dogs Brooke and Kira and their kitty "Big Boy".
Jacqy
Jacqy joined Switzerland Animal Hospital in October 2016. She was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio area and moved to St. Johns in 2015 with her husband, 4 kids, and Labrador retriever, Daisy. She loves to spend time with the Jacksonville supporters of the Cleveland Browns, spending time on the water and watching Cleveland sports.
