About Animal Health Clinic
A mixed animal practice serving Dyersville and the surrounding communities since 2002.
Our Story
Animal Health Clinic has proudly served the Dyersville community and surrounding areas since February 1, 2002, when the clinic was founded by Dr. Virgil Bourek. From the beginning, the clinic was built on the belief that animals deserve compassionate, high-quality veterinary care — and that strong relationships with clients are essential to providing the best possible service. Over the years, Animal Health Clinic has grown into a trusted mixed-animal practice serving both companion animals and livestock throughout the region.
Today, Animal Health Clinic continues to provide dependable veterinary care while maintaining the community-focused values it was founded on. Our team is committed to helping pets, livestock, and the people who care for them through preventative medicine, practical treatment plans, and personalized service.
Our Doctors
Animal Health Clinic is led by a dedicated veterinary team committed to high-quality care for both companion animals and livestock.
Dr. Virgil Bourek
Founder & Lead Veterinarian
Dr. Virgil Bourek is the founder and lead veterinarian of Animal Health Clinic, proudly serving Dyersville and the surrounding communities since opening the practice in 2002. With decades of experience in both companion animal and large animal medicine, Dr. Bourek has become a trusted resource for pet owners, livestock producers, and families throughout the region.
As a mixed-animal veterinarian, Dr. Bourek cares for a wide variety of patients, from dogs and cats to cattle and other livestock. His extensive hands-on experience and practical approach to veterinary medicine allow him to offer thoughtful guidance, effective treatment plans, and dependable care no matter the animal.
Growing up with a strong appreciation for agriculture and rural communities, Dr. Bourek has built his practice around supporting both companion animal health and the success of local livestock operations. He understands the day-to-day realities his clients face and works closely with them to provide practical, real-world solutions.
One of Dr. Bourek’s greatest priorities is developing lasting relationships with his clients. He believes veterinary medicine is about more than treating illness — it’s about educating owners, providing thoughtful recommendations, and supporting long-term animal wellness. For more than two decades, he has remained committed to delivering personalized veterinary care with professionalism, integrity, and compassion.
Highlights
- Founder and owner of Animal Health Clinic
- Serving Dyersville and surrounding communities since 2002
- Experienced in both companion animal and large animal medicine
- Special interest in herd health, livestock care, and rural veterinary medicine
- Provides preventative care, diagnostics, surgery, and reproductive services
- Dedicated to client education, practical solutions, and compassionate care
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Bourek enjoys supporting the local agricultural community and takes pride in helping both pets and livestock receive the highest standard of veterinary care.
Dr. Cassie Burkle
Veterinarian
Dr. Cassie Burkle joined Animal Health Clinic in 2025 and is dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality veterinary care for both large and small animal patients. A proud graduate of Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Burkle brings a strong commitment to modern medicine, clear communication, and personalized care to every visit.
Originally from Earlville, Iowa, Dr. Burkle grew up on a beef and dairy farm just outside of town. Her experiences raising and caring for livestock inspired her passion for veterinary medicine from an early age and continue to shape her practical, hands-on approach to patient care today.
Dr. Burkle is committed to working closely with pet owners and livestock producers to develop practical, individualized healthcare plans. She believes that clear communication and client education are essential to good outcomes, and she takes the time to make sure her clients feel informed and supported.
As a valued member of the Animal Health Clinic team, Dr. Burkle helps expand the clinic’s services and availability while continuing its long-standing tradition of dependable, personalized veterinary care.
Highlights
- Veterinarian at Animal Health Clinic since 2025
- Graduate of Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine
- Raised on a beef and dairy farm near Earlville, Iowa
- Special interest in large animal medicine
- Provides care for both companion animals and livestock
- Focuses on preventative medicine, diagnostics, client education, and compassionate care
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Burkle enjoys spending time with her family and friends and remains passionate about serving the agricultural community she proudly calls home.
Our Staff
Animal Health Clinic is supported by a dedicated team of staff members who help ensure the clinic operates smoothly each day. From assisting with patient care and treatments to helping clients with scheduling, medications, and questions, our staff plays an essential role in the care we provide.
Bailey Ernst
Practice Manager
Bailey helps keep the clinic running day-to-day, coordinating operations, scheduling, and supporting the veterinary team so we can focus on delivering great care to every patient.
Brianna Harter
Front Desk & Vet Assistant
Brianna is usually the first person you’ll meet at the clinic. She handles check-ins, appointments, and questions at the front desk while also assisting the veterinarians with hands-on patient care.