Meet the vets

Dr. Joseph Hong

Dr. Joe Hong joined the team at ARL Afford-a-Care South in March 2026, and also previously for ARL Afford-a-Care East prior to the ARL’s acquisition.

Dr. Hong has a Bachelor of Science in Biology (with a concentration in biochemistry and cell/molecular biology) from San Francisco State University in California, and earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine.  While at Iowa State, Dr. Hong did his student externship with Wayside Waifs Animal Shelter in Kansas City, Missouri.

Dr. Dawn Bailey

Dr. Dawn Bailey has 9 years of veterinary experience with a background in emergency medicine, general practice and shelter medicine. She also served in the Peace Corps prior to attending veterinary school, which she says helped shape her perspective on the importance of service and collaboration in local communities. Dr. Bailey says she’s excited to be part of a team whose goal is to meet pet parents where they are and make veterinary care more accessible, supportive and approachable.

Dr. Jake DeVries

Dr. Jake DeVries joined the ARL Afford-a-Care Clinic team in May 2026, coming from a veterinary clinic in Illinois. Dr. DeVries graduated from Michigan State University and has over a decade of experience working in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Natalie Biddle

Dr. Natalie Biddle started at the ARL Afford-a-Care Clinics in June 2026.  Dr. Biddle has been located in the Des Moines metro for the majority of her professional career, working at clinics, animal shelters, and medical centers in Ankeny and Indianola. She earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, and has a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Equine Studies. In her free time, she also enjoys fostering for the ARL!