We’re a different breed.

Emergency veterinarians have all kinds of qualifications to pass before they can take care of your pet. Meet our team!

Beacon. A different breed of care.

What kind of person understands a cat has as much right to your personal space as you do?

And that the best dog kisses are wet dog kisses.

What breed of human believes in the healing powers of modern medicine and old-fashioned snuggles?

And that every treatment plan begins with empathy for everyone.

You. Us.

Yes, we do things a little differently.

Because differently is where healing thrives, and innovation begins.

Our doors like our hearts are always open.

That’s the kind of people we are.

Together, we’re a local breed of emergency veterinary care.

Beacon’s Leadership Team

Dr. Ellen Buerkett

Owner/ER Veterinarian

“We’re from the area. We’re your neighbors. And we want to serve the people and pets of our community.”

Dr. Buerkett was born in Palm Harbor and is a Pinellas County native. She moved to Gainesville and became a Florida Gator for both undergraduate and veterinary school. She made St. Petersburg her long term home with her husband, Nathan, and their three beautiful children, Christian, Alexander and Audrey.

Dr. Buerkett has an extensive emergency background with additional focus and training in emergent surgeries. She has served as an emergency doctor, intern manager and medical director previously, with a true passion for teaching and practicing emergency veterinary medicine.

Dr. Buerkett is eager to serve her local community and their emergent pet needs. She has a drive to serve the Beacon team and provide an environment that fosters life-long careers and happiness in emergency pet care..

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Nathan Buerkett

Nathan Buerkett
Owner / Director

“We are proud to serve our community, and love working with such talented people.”

Nathan Buerkett is a dedicated professional who enjoys collaborating with talented individuals to improve our community. As the Director of Beacon, he leverages his years of business ownership experience, genuine commitment to excellence, and community-driven values into every aspect of his work.

Education:
Nathan Buerkett is an alumnus of Southern Illinois University, Carbondale.

Personal:
Nathan and his wife, Dr. Ellen Buerkett, are the proud parents of three wonderful children. When he’s not immersed in his responsibilities at Beacon, Nathan enjoys watching baseball and traveling with his family.

Why ER Medicine?
Nathan’s unwavering commitment to emergency medicine for pets stems from the profound difference it makes in the lives of beloved animals and the people who care for them.