DR. NATHAN SCHOLTEN D.V.M

Dr. Nathan Scholten is an Arizona native, born and raised in Tucson. He attended the University of Arizona for his undergraduate studies before being accepted to Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. While at CSU, he was honored with the prestigious Upjohn Award for Proficiency & Excellence in Small Animal Medicine.
After earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, Dr. Scholten returned to Tucson to begin his career in small animal practice. It was there he met and married Dr. Valerie Jo Otte, an OB/GYN physician. The couple later relocated to Omaha, Nebraska, where Dr. Otte completed her residency and Dr. Scholten joined the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps.
During his military service, Major Scholten oversaw the health and welfare of bomb and narcotic detection dogs. He was later seconded to the United Nations, where he served as Commander of the 53rd Medical Detachment, Veterinary Corps, and led veterinary operations during Operation Uphold Democracy in Haiti.
When the couple returned to Arizona, Dr. Scholten joined Hopi Animal Hospital in Scottsdale—just two weeks after moving back home. Within six months, he purchased the practice and began a seven-year transformation, evolving it from a low-cost spay and neuter clinic into one of Arizona’s most medically advanced private veterinary hospitals. In 2004, he relocated the hospital to its current location on Bell Road.
With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Scholten’s professional interests include surgery, diagnostic ultrasound, and ophthalmology. He divides his time between practicing medicine, managing his team of 12 dedicated staff members, and enjoying life with his family and dogs. Outside of veterinary medicine, he is also an accomplished jade carver.
Dr. Scholten has been featured in major media outlets including CBS, ABC, NBC, Bloomberg, and USA Today, offering expert insights on pet health and surgical care. His guiding philosophy—and the foundation of his practice—is simple:
“Quality without Compromise.”

DR. SHAINA PRUDEN D.V.M

Dr. Pruden has been working at Hopi Animal Hospital since October 2004.
She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Indiana University. Prior to attending veterinary school, Dr. Pruden lived in Chicago and performed cancer research at Northwestern University’s Medical School. She completed her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine with high honors at the University of Illinois. She continued her education by completing a veterinarian internship in small animal medicine and veterinary surgery at the University of Georgia.
Dr. Pruden enjoys continuing her personal as well as professional education. Her goals are to communicate effectively while providing the highest quality of care and service.
Outside of work, she has an enthusiastic passion for adventure, gardening, travel, and spending quality time with her husband and four-legged companions.

DR. ELIZABETH VANDER VELDE

Dr. Elizabeth (Betsy) Vander Velde’s journey began at Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine where she earned her degree and set off on a career that would take her all over the country.
Her first stop was New York City, where she combined her expertise in small animal clinical care, high-volume soft tissue surgery, and shelter animal husbandry. She worked at one of the largest no-kill adoption centers in Manhattan, making a huge impact on countless furry lives.
Next, Dr. Vander Velde’s love for urban medicine led her to Chicago, where she expanded her skills to include emergency and urgent care, offering top-notch service to pets in need.
Then, in 2024, she and her husband Andy (along with their 200-pound Mastiff, Otto!) made the big move to sunny Phoenix, where Dr. Vander Velde now works as a busy free lance veterinarian.
She’s loved joining the Hopi Animal Hospital team, building strong bonds with clients and their beloved fur-babies.
When she’s not saving animals, Dr. Vander Velde enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, and
is passionate about speaking Spanish (especially in medical settings). She also loves staying
active with yoga, cycling, and marathon running.

DR. LAUREN BIENENFELD

Dr. Lauren Bienenfeld earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Louisiana State University in 2017.
She began her career in rescue and shelter medicine, where she developed a strong foundation in compassionate, community-centered care.
Dr. Bienenfeld has a special interest in dermatology and wound repair and management, with a focus on improving comfort and quality of life for her patients.
At home, she enjoys spending time with her two beloved senior pit bulls, Stella and Panda, who inspire her dedication to caring for pets of all ages.