Meet the People Behind VetCS.

Our expert team is dedicated to crafting innovative CBD products for pets and horses, drawing on extensive experience and a keen understanding of their unique health needs. We're committed to providing safe, effective solutions specifically designed for dogs, cats, and horses to enhance their wellbeing.

Chelsea Luedke

DVM, MS Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer

Dr. Chelsea Luedke is a veterinarian renowned for her expertise in animal care and hemp research. After completing her Bachelor's and Master's Degrees, she pursued her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Colorado State University. Dr. Luedke's passion for advancing animal health led her to specialize in hemp research, where she explores the potential benefits of hemp-derived products in veterinary medicine. With her extensive knowledge and dedication, she has become a leading authority in the field, advocating for the responsible integration of hemp-based treatments in veterinary practice. Her commitment to improving the well-being of animals is constantly propelling her towards future areas of research aimed at further enhancing the health and happiness of our beloved animal companions.

Trish Wilhelm

RVT, Co-Founder, Chief Operations Officer

Trish is a Registered Veterinary Technician who earned her degree from Bel-Rea Institute in Denver and has spent her career specializing in equine medicine and veterinary cannabis. She completed her internship at an equine ambulatory practice in Elizabeth, Colorado and went on to work across equine ambulatory, surgical services, and small animal settings before joining VetCS at its founding. As one of the original VetCS team members, Trish developed our dosing protocols, leads veterinary cannabis consultations, and is the first point of contact for pet owners and horse owners navigating CBD therapy for their animals. Her combination of hands-on equine experience and deep cannabis expertise makes her one of the most knowledgeable veterinary cannabis technicians in the country.

Tara Dorr

Senior Lab Director

Eric Wilhelm

Partner, Chief Technical Officer

Paul Zimmerman

Esq. Partner, Chief Financial Officer

Riley King

Director of E-commerce

Ellie Anderson

Social Media Manager

Advisory Board

At VetCS, we collaborate with a Veterinary Advisory Board of veterinarians, credentialed technicians, and specialists to guide everything we do. Their expertise ensures our products are grounded in current research and real clinical practice, helping us stay responsive to the evolving needs of the veterinary community and advance care in animal health.

Dr. Katie Woodley

BVSc, cVMA, GDCHM

Dr. Katie Woodley, founder of The Natural Pet Doctor, is an integrative veterinarian with 15+ years of experience. Trained in New Zealand, she focuses on root-cause medicine, especially gut health, and blends Eastern and Western therapies like acupuncture, herbs, and nutrition.

She also educates pet parents and veterinary professionals through her Healthy Holistic Pet For Life Blueprint. Based in Colorado, she lives with her husband and three black cats.

Liz Hughston

MEd., RVT, CVT, LVT, LVMT, VTS (SAIM) (ECC)

Liz is a certified Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in Small Animal Internal Medicine and Emergency & Critical Care. She is a co-editor of Cannabis Therapy in Veterinary Medicine and has contributed to multiple veterinary publications.

She is also actively involved in leadership and advocacy within the veterinary field, including roles with the National Veterinary Professionals Union and the Veterinary Cannabinoid Academy. Liz is dedicated to advancing and supporting veterinary technicians through education, mentorship, and professional development.

Erin Contino

MS, DVM, DACVSMR

Dr. Erin Contino is an associate professor of equine sports medicine and rehabilitation at Colorado State University. A lifelong event rider and graduate of the United States Pony Club, she earned her B.S. in Equine Sciences, M.S. in Clinical Sciences, and D.V.M. from CSU, followed by advanced training in equine sports medicine, rehabilitation, and musculoskeletal ultrasound.

Her work focuses on diagnosing and treating lameness and performance issues in equine athletes. She remains active in the equestrian community and professional veterinary organizations.

Dr. Ruocco standing outside with his wife

Dr. Nick Ruocco

DVM

Dr. Nick Ruocco owns Coyote Ridge Veterinary Clinic in Fort Collins and Berthoud, CO. He enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine. When not at the hospital, Dr. Ruocco and his wife, Dr. Lauren Luedke, and their toddler, Nicky, can be found out and about enjoying the Colorado Outdoors. Dr. Ruocco has used VetCS products as an equine practitioner, small animal vet and for personal use. They proudly offer the full line of VetCS products at all their clinic locations.

Mark Romanoski

BS, CVT, RVT

Mark is a Credentialed Veterinary Technician with experience in specialty anesthesia, surgery, and zoo medicine across multiple institutions, including the Oklahoma City Zoo, Phoenix Zoo, and Henry Vilas Zoo. His clinical focus is anesthesia and analgesia in exotic species, along with advancing care standards in zoological and companion exotics.

He is also a speaker and author on veterinary anesthesia and surgery in exotic animals. Currently based in New York City, he enjoys CrossFit, city walks, and life with his cat Maja and leopard gecko Ein Zane Pearce.

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We Are Here When You Need Us

Have a question about your dog, cat, or horse? Our veterinary team is available to help you find the right product, navigate dosing, or simply talk through your animal's specific needs. We believe that getting it right matters more than making a quick sale and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Talk to Our Veterinary Team