Powered by passion and love for animals
We provide kind and honest care that goes the extra-mile to ensure the health and happiness of your furry and feathered friend(s), anytime you need us. You can trust that our team of experts will provide respectful care, education and support for your pet’s unique needs.
Our Doctors
Dr. Gordon Rhine
Veterinarian
Dr. Gordon, owner of CHFA and a native of Mt. Vernon, IL, received his BA in chemistry and zoology at Southern Illinois University where he graduated PHI KAPPA PHI in 1968. He earned his DVM, with honors from the University of Illinois in 1972. After one year in a mixed practice in Nashville, IL, he returned to the University of Illinois for further study in surgery and medication and was on staff at the veterinary school.
In November, 1975 he opened a new practice in Herrin, IL eventually becoming owner in 1994, further enlarging it to the current four locations. In his free time Dr. Rhine enjoys spending time with his family on his farm north of Marion, fulfilling responsibilities in his church, and hunting with his dogs.
Dr. Kimberly Talley
Veterinarian
Doctor Kimberly Talley graduated from Carterville high school in 1988 and acquired a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Zoology from Southern Illinois University Carbondale in 1992. She completed veterinary college at the University of Illinois in 1996 with additional studies in equine and wildlife/exotics medication.
Prior to veterinary school, she completed a Colorado outward bound course, acquired an amateur radio license, and earned a Private Pilot Certificate for airplanes. She participated in the Native American Project and in an internship at the Brookfield Zoo during veterinary school.
She enjoys mountain climbing, camping, skiing, motorcycles, music, and training horses/burros, (especially those acquired through the BLM adoption program). She is currently studying to complete a helicopter pilot add-on rating. Doctor Talley is available to see dogs, cat, exotic pet (birds, reptiles, rabbits, rodents, ferrets, and others) as well as wildlife.
Dr. Laura Portee
Veterinarian
Dr. Laura Portee attended high school in Carrier Mills, Illinois. She received her B.S. from Southeastern Illinois College and University of Illinois and then her DVM from University of Illinois. After graduating veterinary school, Dr. Portee became an associate DVM with Central Hospital For Animals in Fall of 1996. She has a special area of interest in canine reproduction, cosmetic surgery, and orthopedics (colnine sports medicine).
Dr. Portee enjoys participating and training for dog shows in conformation (German Short Point) and Obedience, not to mention Horseback riding and competition ranch sorting and cutting. She is an avid gardener and enjoys hunting and fishing.
Dr. Ellen Mcnitt
Veterinarian
Dr. Ellen McNitt was born and raised in San Antonio, TX, She received her B.S. from SUL Ross State University and her DVM from Texas A & M College of Veterinary Medicine. After being employed in a mixed animal practice for years, she then joined the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps and was stationed in Arizona, Honduras, and Okinawa. It was in Okinawa that Dr. McNitt met her future husband and moved to Murphysboro, Illinois.
She was employed for nine years with T.O. Miller, DVM in Murphysboro, Illinois, then took an associate DVM position with Central Hospital For Animals where she has practiced for the last nine years.
Dr. McNitt has three pets (2 Chihuahua’s & 1 Spaniel/Retriever) that were all rescues. She enjoys reading, counted cross-stitch, party decorating, arts and crafts.
Dr. Collin Rhine
Veterinarian
Dr. Kiley Kelly
Veterinarian
Dr. Kiley Kelly brings a wealth of expertise to her practice, having obtained her DVM degree from the University of Illinois and a certificate in animal chiropractic care from Options for Animals in Kansas. Dr. Kelly specializes in treating vertebral subluxation complexes to enhance mobility, alleviate pain, and boost immune function in both cats and dogs.
Her comprehensive approach includes chiropractic care, laser therapy, supplements, and prescription medication, offering effective solutions for acute injuries, arthritis, and overall maintenance. With a commitment to non-surgical pain management, Dr. Kelly provides personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Dr. Alyssa Cook
Veterinarian
Dr. Shannon Zaloz
Veterinarian
Dr. Shannon Zaloz joined our veterinary team in March 2025, bringing a compassionate, hands-on approach to animal care. A proud graduate of the University of Missouri–Columbia, Dr. Zaloz earned her Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science in 2018, followed by her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2022.
As a Certified Fear Free Professional, Dr. Zaloz is committed to making every veterinary visit as low-stress and positive as possible for both pets and their people. She is currently pursuing a certification in animal rehabilitation, further deepening her dedication to helping animals recover and thrive.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Zaloz enjoys spending time outdoors, especially hiking and cycling. She also has a background in caving and brings that same adventurous spirit to all she does. At home, she shares her life with a mischievous cat named Dae, who’s always on a quest for their next snack.
Fun fact: Dr. Zaloz broke a long-standing family tradition by becoming a veterinarian—her mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother were all librarians.
Sarah Siefert
Herrin Office/Inventory Manager
Sarah Siefert has been with Central Hospital For Animals since early 2008 and currently holds the position of Office and Inventory Manager at the Herrin location. She graduated from R.O.W.V.A. High School in 2002 and attended Southern Illinois University in the spring of the same year.
Along with her three children, Sarah also has a Doberman Pinscher named “Finn” and three cats. When she isn’t working, she enjoys spending quality time with her family.