Meet the Staff and Doctors at South Patrick Animal Hospital
staff and doctors at south patrick animal hospital
Dr. Richard Wigelsworth
Owner/DVM
Dr. Beth Ferris
Dr. Wigelsworth was born in Georgia and began his career in veterinary medicine as a technician while completing his undergraduate studies at the University of Central Florida. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Georgia in 1996.
With extensive experience in showing, breeding, and field training Standard Poodles, Dr. Wigelsworth has earned numerous AKC titles over the years.
After practicing veterinary medicine for more than a decade, he relocated from Deltona to Melbourne in January 2008.
Dr. Wigelsworth values client education and takes pride in making sure questions and concerns are thoroughly addressed. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time on his boat, fishing, being outdoors, and relaxing with his family and friends.
DVM
Dr. Ferris knew she wanted to be a veterinarian from a young age. Originally from Massachusetts, her path led her to Barry University in Miami for undergraduate studies, followed by service with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves during Operation Desert Storm, and ultimately to veterinary school at the University of Florida, where she graduated in 1997.
After completing a 14-month internship at Hollywood Animal Hospital, Dr. Ferris returned to Brevard County and has been practicing locally ever since, joining South Patrick Animal Hospital in April 2024. She also spent ten years teaching in the Veterinary Technology program at Eastern Florida State College while continuing to work full time. Her professional interests expanded into integrative medicine, including chiropractic care and acupuncture, with advanced training through Options for Animals and the Chi Institute.
Dr. Ferris has a strong passion for rabbit medicine and surgery, dentistry, nutrition, and client education rooted in understanding rather than judgement. Outside of the clinic, she enjoys gardening, cooking, reading, attending Renaissance fairs with her family, and figure skating. She shares her home with her husband, one child, three cats, and one rabbit.
Tiffany
Practice Manager
Tiffany was born in Florida’s panhandle and grew up moving around the world as part of a military family. She returned to Florida in 2014 and began her animal career later that year as a kennel technician.
She transitioned into a veterinary technician role in 2017 and joined South Patrick Animal Hospital in February 2020, becoming manager in 2022.
Outside of work, Tiffany enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Astra & Nova, watching TV, gaming, reading and managing her fish tank.
Lacey
Veterinary Receptionist
Lacey moved from New York to Melbourne, Florida when she was younger, and brings more than 23 years of experience in veterinary medicine. She began her career at age 16 in kennel work and later became a veterinary technician. She has been with South Patrick Animal Hospital since November 2024.
Her background includes emergency medicine, general practice, and working with small mammals and exotics. When she’s not at work, Lacey enjoys quiet evenings at home watching movies with her significant other and continues to have a special interest in exotic and unusual pets.
Amanda
Veterinary Technician
Amanda was born and raised in Florida and has worked exclusively in veterinary medicine throughout her career, joining South Patrick Animal Hospital in December 2025. Amanda grew up on a farm where her family bred and raced Quarter Horses, which helped foster her lifelong passion for animals.
Amanda brings a calm, laid-back presence to the team, helping pets feel at ease during their visits.
Outside of work, Amanda enjoys fishing, attending rodeo events, riding ATVs, and relaxing in her downtime.
Saraa
Veterinary Assistant
Saraa was born and raised in Florida and previously worked in food service management before transitioning into veterinary medicine. She joined South Patrick Animal Hospital in May 2024, inspired by a lifelong connection to animals and caring for her senior dog, Keylow, who has since passed away.
She enjoys learning about different breeds and building strong relationships with clients to help provide thoughtful, individualized care. Outside of work, Saraa enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, fishing, and being with her dog, Lula June.
Emily
Hospital Manager
Emily was born in Mississippi and raised in Georgia, with the unique opportunity to live in Dubai during her early teen years. She moved to Brevard County in 2017 and began working with animals shortly after graduating high school.
Her early experience at a boarding facility sparked her interest in animal care, and she transitioned into veterinary medicine as a technician in 2021. Emily joined South Patrick Animal Hospital in September 2022. She is currently exploring long-term career goals, including pursuing entering nursing school.
In her free time, Emily enjoys spending time with her dogs, hiking, traveling, and being with friends.
Crystal
Veterinary Receptionist
Crystal joined South Patrick Animal Hospital in February 2026, bringing four years of experience in veterinary medicine along with a diverse professional background. Prior to entering the veterinary field, she worked as a travel agent for eight years, specializing in world travel and cruises. Her time volunteering at Journey's End Sanctuary inspired her passion for animal care and ultimately led her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.
Crystal is known for her positive energy, strong work ethic, and dedication to supporting both clients and patients. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, traveling with family and friends, and spending time with her six beloved pets. A devoted Disney fan, she's often found wearing her own 3D-printed ears and bringing a little extra fun wherever she goes.
Mercedes
Veterinary Technician
Mercedes was born and raised in Melbourne, Florida. Before starting in animal medicine, she was a barista for 4 years.
Mercedes has been in the animal industry since May 2025, when she joined us at South Patrick Animal Hospital. She loves animals, and being able to advocate for them is very important to her.
Outisde of work, Mercedes likes to play video games, attend concerts, try new restaurants, and travel.
Mercedes has a green cheek conure named Kirby and two orange cats named Crouton and Anchovy.
Emma
Veterinary Assistant
Emma originally comes from Long Island, New York, and made her way to Florida while attending Florida Tech. Before finding her passion in veterinary medicine, she worked in the restaurant industry. Driven by her love for animals and desire to help them in any way she could, Emma joined the veterinary field and has been working in veterinary medicine for about four years. Emma joined South Patrick Animal Hospital in May of 2026.
When she's not working, Emma enjoys spending time at the beach, reading a good book, and playing bingo. A fun fact about Emma is that she is scuba certified!
Destany
Public Relations Manager
Destany was born and raised in Western Pennsylvania and moved to Melbourne in June 2025 in search of a change of pace. She began working with animals in 2016 and has experience in dog daycare, animal shelter work, and owning her own pet sitting and dog walking business.
She joined South Patrick Animal Hospital in June 2025.
Destany shares her home with her husband, five rescue cats, two dogs and a leopard gecko. Outside of work, she enjoys adventuring with her husband and dogs, as well as crocheting and knitting.