Meet Our Hilltop Family Vet Team
Alachua’s #1 Rated Veterinary Staff
Meet our Hilltop vets and hospital staff.
Click each photo to learn more about our team.
DVMs
Dr. Sara Vanderbilt
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Dr. Marnie Thomas
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Dr. Michelle Floyd
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Dr. Emma Lytton
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Practice Manager
Shelby R.
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Veterinary Technicians
Felicity S.
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Rebekah F.
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Jasmine B.
Veterinary Technician
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Sarah A.
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Veterinary Assistants
CSRs
Hannah K.
Lead Client Service Representative
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Astrid H.
Client Service Representative
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Paige S.
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Meghan A.
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DVMs
Dr. Sara Vanderbilt
I’m originally from the St. Pete/Clearwater area, and I moved up to Gainesville to attend the University of Florida. I majored in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, with a minor in Entomology. While working on my Bachelor’s degree, I started volunteering with Gainesville Rabbit Rescue, and that’s what sparked my love for veterinary medicine! In 2023, I completed my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Florida. Go Gators!! While in vet school, I also completed a certificate in Shelter Medicine. My special interests include exotic mammals and reptiles, nutrition, dermatology, and ophthalmology. At home, I have a sweet rabbit named Poppy and two lazy senior cats, Leon and Cloud. In my free time, I enjoy going to craft breweries with my husband, finding new additions for my bug collection, volunteering for Gainesville Rabbit Rescue, and spending quality time with my friends and family.
Dr. Marnie Thomas
DVM Associate Veterinarian
I grew up riding and loving horses, but my passion evolved into a love for wildlife and exotic animals. I Graduated in 1996 from Auburn with a Bachelor in Wildlife Science and then in 2000 with a DVM from Auburn School of Veterinary Medicine. This is what I was born to do. At the age of 3, I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian. God instilled a passion for Veterinary Medicine in me. I am a MOM to a delightful 5-year-old boy and the wife to a gifted husband. I have recently become a beekeeper and am learning this new art. Taking care of our farm and its critters, as well as the land, absorb the remaining time. I have been practicing Exotic and Avian Medicine for almost 20 years and continue to be challenged every single day.
Dr. Michelle Floyd
Associate Veterinarian
While I entered into the veterinary field with a special interest in shelter medicine and helping those without families, I have found what I truly enjoy about clinical practice is the bond I develop with pets and their humans. I love meeting families and watching their pets grow over the years with them, and I will always work to keep them happy and healthy for as long as possible. My special interests include internal medicine, solving the puzzles of different complex conditions, as well as dentistry and dermatology. I received my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Florida in 2014. Prior to that, I majored in both Biology and Chemistry at Western Kentucky University, received my Bachelor’s in 2009, and graduated from the Honors program. Since childhood, I’ve always been drawn to aiding the small and sick. I am passionate about supporting animals when they’re scared or hurt and guiding families in the care of their furry friends. I started in the animal field as a receptionist and kennel tech, working up to a technician in a small and exotics hospital. I’ve found my groove in taking a proactive role in the management and treatment of diseases as a veterinarian, and I wouldn’t change it! Any spare time is usually spent corralling two toddlers, but I also enjoy cooking, reading, and playing various sports (volleyball, pickleball, Spikeball). My true passion is playing Ultimate Frisbee, and I compete on a traveling women’s team at a national level as well as play in a city league in the Gainesville area.
Dr. Emma Lytton
I am from Northwest Indiana, or “The Region” as the locals call it. I attended Purdue University for undergrad and received my bachelor’s degree in animal science with a focused concentration in pre-veterinary medicine. During the summers between my semesters at Purdue, I worked as a veterinary assistant in a small animal general practice, then a general practice that also handled emergency cases. Following graduation, I worked with the Purdue University’s Small Animal Hospital emergency and critical care department. It was during this time that I found my passion within vet medicine and emergency medicine. I was accepted to the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and I graduated May 2026, with a certificate in business management.
I have a very sweet goldendoodle at home named Ruby, who just so happened to have been born on the very day my husband and I started dating- talk about fate! In my free time I enjoy reading, finding new trails around Alachua County, golfing, and helping my husband as he directs a local high school theater troupe.
Practice Manager
Shelby R.
Shelby has experience in vet practice administration, as a veterinary technician, and has a strong background in hospitality. A lifelong passion for animals has led to her owning horses, a cat (River), dog (Wren), and snake (Sushi). She strives to give everyone she interacts with the best experience, finding the most satisfaction in building relationships with clients and their pets. Outside of the office, Shelby often reads, journals, and plays games with her fiancé and roommate.
Veterinary Technicians
Felicity S.
Lead Veterinary Technician
Felicity is currently enrolled in the Veterinary Technician program at Penn Foster and is set to graduate at the end of 2025 with an Associate of Science degree. She plans to take the NVTE in early 2026.
She chose this career due to her love of animals and the opportunity it provides to help them live long, happy, and healthy lives. She enjoys the continuous learning and educational opportunities that veterinary medicine offers as the field evolves.
In her free time, Felicity enjoys spending time outdoors fishing, swimming, and visiting family. Occasionally, she becomes deeply focused on a new art project.
Rebekah F.
I have always loved animals, and I have always wanted to be a voice for them. I have spent the past 5 years as a technician in a small animal practice, and I am looking forward to continuing that role. I obtained my Bachelor of Microbiology and Cell Science at the University of Florida, and I am now currently at St. Petersburg College, enrolled in the Veterinary Nurse Technology program. I chose to work in this field as it gives me the opportunity to be a voice for the animals. I am a very outdoor type of person and enjoy riding my horses, traveling, and hiking to new places, along with spending quality time with my family. Spending time on the river in a kayak is one of my favorite things to do around Alachua.
Jasmine B.
Veterinary Technician
I’ve worked in the animal care field for 5 years and even through the most stressful of times, I have loved this career. Being able to provide care and comfort to animals, even if it is just offering a treat, will always be my biggest joy and my reason for doing this. I graduated from University of Central Florida in 2019 with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and have hopes of attending Vet School in the future. I have a little black cat, Nakia, that keeps me on my toes. In my free time I like to make art, try new recipes, relax and take naps.
Sarah A.
Hi, I’m Sarah! As a dedicated Veterinary Technician, I love providing compassionate, Fear Free care to every patient that walks through our doors. My top priority is ensuring your furry family members feel safe, calm, and comfortable during their medical visits.
At home, my life is beautifully chaotic with my two dogs, Pj and Westley, and my three cats, Duncan, Misa, and Drako. When I’m not at the clinic, you can usually find me relaxing near our local natural springs or listening to true crime podcasts.
Tiara K.
I’ve been working in veterinary medicine for 7 years and have always had a passion for animals and caring for them. I grew up in West Virginia and have called Florida home for about 9 years. Outside of work, I enjoy playing video games, bored games, and spending time with my partner and our dogs. I’m grateful to have a career that allows me to do what I’ve always loved—working with and helping animals.
Bettie T.
I’ve always known that I wanted to work with animals. Caring for them has never felt like just a career choice, but a passion and the most rewarding path I could imagine. My journey in veterinary medicine began with a veterinary assisting program in high school in Naples, which led me to begin working in the field.
I am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Zoology at the University of Florida, with hopes of attending veterinary school in the future. I have two cats, Dutchie and Cashew. Outside of work and school, I love being outdoors, gardening, paddleboarding, and drawing.
Veterinary Assistants
Jasper G.
I moved to Gainesville with the intention of getting an associates degree to become a Zookeeper. After graduating, I found that while I love working with animals, zookeeping wasn’t quite right for me. I changed career paths into Veterinarian assisting, and I fell in love with it instantly! I am so excited to be learning about assisting the vets with cats and dogs, as well as exotics such as birds and reptiles! It’s truly the best outcome of my degree and desire to help animals.
In my downtime, I care for my cat Moo, and my lizard Pancake. I enjoy going on nature walks, to farmers markets, and playing video games. I do many forms of artwork as well such as ceramics, textiles and digital sketches and occasionally when I have time, I sell at art markets.
Amna M.
I have loved animals since I was a child and grew up with several pets, which inspired my passion for animal care. I am currently an Animal Science major at the University of Florida on the pre-veterinary track, with the goal of becoming a veterinarian. I am excited to gain hands-on experience as a veterinary assistant/kennel technician, learn from the veterinary team, and build the skills and knowledge I will need for a future career in veterinary medicine.
CSRs
Hannah K.
I’m a Lead Client Service Representative at Hilltop Family Vet. I have approximately four years of experience working with animals in both shelters and veterinary clinics, and am currently enrolled in Penn Fosters Veterinary Technician Program. As a receptionist at Hilltop Family Vet, I take pride in my ability to provide compassionate care and support to both animals and their owners. I aim to ensure that our clients are confident that their pets are in great hands. I enjoy being the first person who clients talk to and making them feel welcomed and comfortable. Whether I’m doing office work, or providing hands on care to animals,I am dedicated to contributing positively to the health and well-being of our patients!
In my free time, I love to care for my little “zoo” which includes my Panther Chameleon, 2 Crested Geckos, 2 Leopard geckos, Bearded Dragon, My 2 dogs, 3 cats, and then my ferret.
Astrid H.
Customer service representative
I have been in the industry for about two years now. I am currently enrolled at Santa Fe college for my masters in biological sciences. I plan on transferring to The University of Florida in the future to study veterinary medicine. I pride myself in building trust and relationships with every client. In my free time I enjoy taking my two dogs for trail walks and going to the beach.
Paige S.
Hello! My name is Paige and I am a recent UF grad in Wildlife Ecology & Conservation. I have experience in zookeeping with bats and reptiles and I’m excited to dive deeper into the world of vet med! I’m super interested in animal behavior and love learning each pet’s unique personality and quirks. I plan to go to vet school and would love to focus in small animal, zoo, or shelter med.
In my free time, I enjoy reading, exploring the local nature spots, and spending time with my cat Teddy! (And buying him lots of toys he doesn’t care about.)
Meghan A.
Meghan is a Client Service Representative at Hilltop Family Vet who loves getting to know the wonderful people and pets who walk through the doors each day. Her favorite part of the job is providing exceptional care and attention to every furry, feathery, and scaly friend she meets!
In her free time, Meghan enjoys dressing up her beloved Maine Coon, Boise, and staging glamour-shot photoshoots in all of Boise’s favorite sunny spots.
Veterinary Philosophy
We work hard to be Alachua’s leading animal care provider. That means outfitting our clinic with cutting-edge technology and hiring smart, caring people to bring the furry members of your family the best care possible.
Local, loving care for your dog or cat in Alachua.
At Hilltop Family Vet, you and your companion are our top priority. From same-day vet appointments to unhurried face time with your veterinarian, we care for the details just as we care for your pet. We thrive on wagging tails and smiling faces and treat every pet like one of our own. After all, your family is part of our family. We serve Alachua, High Springs, Gainesville, and surrounding areas. We are flexible with our scheduling for your pet, offering same-day appointments, drop-off appointments & emergency care.
“Everyone was great from scheduling to check out. My cats were treated with love and care. And, it was a stress free experience. I highly recommend this practice.”
Amna M.
Veterinary Assistant
I have loved animals since I was a child and grew up with several pets, which inspired my passion for animal care. I am currently an Animal Science major at the University of Florida on the pre-veterinary track, with the goal of becoming a veterinarian. I am excited to gain hands-on experience as a veterinary assistant/kennel technician, learn from the veterinary team, and build the skills and knowledge I will need for a future career in veterinary medicine.
Jasper G.
Veterinary Assistant
I moved to Gainesville with the intention of getting an associates degree to become a Zookeeper. After graduating, I found that while I love working with animals, zookeeping wasn’t quite right for me. I changed career paths into Veterinarian assisting, and I fell in love with it instantly! I am so excited to be learning about assisting the vets with cats and dogs, as well as exotics such as birds and reptiles! It’s truly the best outcome of my degree and desire to help animals.
In my downtime, I care for my cat Moo, and my lizard Pancake. I enjoy going on nature walks, to farmers markets, and playing video games. I do many forms of artwork as well such as ceramics, textiles and digital sketches and occasionally when I have time, I sell at art markets.
Paige S.
Client Service Representative
Hello! My name is Paige and I am a recent UF grad in Wildlife Ecology & Conservation. I have experience in zookeeping with bats and reptiles and I’m excited to dive deeper into the world of vet med! I’m super interested in animal behavior and love learning each pet’s unique personality and quirks. I plan to go to vet school and would love to focus in small animal, zoo, or shelter med.
In my free time, I enjoy reading, exploring the local nature spots, and spending time with my cat Teddy! (And buying him lots of toys he doesn’t care about.)
Meghan A.
Client Service Representative
Meghan is a Client Service Representative at Hilltop Family Vet who loves getting to know the wonderful people and pets who walk through the doors each day. Her favorite part of the job is providing exceptional care and attention to every furry, feathery, and scaly friend she meets!
In her free time, Meghan enjoys dressing up her beloved Maine Coon, Boise, and staging glamour-shot photoshoots in all of Boise’s favorite sunny spots.
Bettie T.
Veterinary Technician
I’ve always known that I wanted to work with animals. Caring for them has never felt like just a career choice, but a passion and the most rewarding path I could imagine. My journey in veterinary medicine began with a veterinary assisting program in high school in Naples, which led me to begin working in the field.
I am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Zoology at the University of Florida, with hopes of attending veterinary school in the future. I have two cats, Dutchie and Cashew. Outside of work and school, I love being outdoors, gardening, paddleboarding, and drawing.
Tiara K.
Veterinary Technician
I’ve been working in veterinary medicine for 7 years and have always had a passion for animals and caring for them. I grew up in West Virginia and have called Florida home for about 9 years. Outside of work, I enjoy playing video games, bored games, and spending time with my partner and our dogs. I’m grateful to have a career that allows me to do what I’ve always loved—working with and helping animals.
Sarah A.
Veterinary Technician
Hi, I’m Sarah! As a dedicated Veterinary Technician, I love providing compassionate, Fear Free care to every patient that walks through our doors. My top priority is ensuring your furry family members feel safe, calm, and comfortable during their medical visits.
At home, my life is beautifully chaotic with my two dogs, Pj and Westley, and my three cats, Duncan, Misa, and Drako. When I’m not at the clinic, you can usually find me relaxing near our local natural springs or listening to true crime podcasts.
Shelby R.
Practice Manager
Shelby has experience in vet practice administration, as a veterinary technician, and has a strong background in hospitality. A lifelong passion for animals has led to her owning horses, a cat (River), dog (Wren), and snake (Sushi). She strives to give everyone she interacts with the best experience, finding the most satisfaction in building relationships with clients and their pets. Outside of the office, Shelby often reads, journals, and plays games with her fiancé and roommate.
Dr. Emma Lytton
Associate Veterinarian
I am from Northwest Indiana, or “The Region” as the locals call it. I attended Purdue University for undergrad and received my bachelor’s degree in animal science with a focused concentration in pre-veterinary medicine. During the summers between my semesters at Purdue, I worked as a veterinary assistant in a small animal general practice, then a general practice that also handled emergency cases. Following graduation, I worked with the Purdue University’s Small Animal Hospital emergency and critical care department. It was during this time that I found my passion within vet medicine and emergency medicine. I was accepted to the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and I graduated May 2026, with a certificate in business management.
I have a very sweet goldendoodle at home named Ruby, who just so happened to have been born on the very day my husband and I started dating- talk about fate! In my free time I enjoy reading, finding new trails around Alachua County, golfing, and helping my husband as he directs a local high school theater troupe.
Dr. Sara Vanderbilt
Managing Veterinarian
I’m originally from the St. Pete/Clearwater area, and I moved up to Gainesville to attend the University of Florida. I majored in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, with a minor in Entomology. While working on my Bachelor’s degree, I started volunteering with Gainesville Rabbit Rescue, and that’s what sparked my love for veterinary medicine! In 2023, I completed my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Florida. Go Gators!! While in vet school, I also completed a certificate in Shelter Medicine. My special interests include exotic mammals and reptiles, nutrition, dermatology, and ophthalmology. At home, I have a sweet rabbit named Poppy and two lazy senior cats, Leon and Cloud. In my free time, I enjoy going to craft breweries with my husband, finding new additions for my bug collection, volunteering for Gainesville Rabbit Rescue, and spending quality time with my friends and family.
Dr. Marnie Thomas, DVM
Associate Veterinarian
I grew up riding and loving horses, but my passion evolved into a love for wildlife and exotic animals. I Graduated in 1996 from Auburn with a Bachelor in Wildlife Science and then in 2000 with a DVM from Auburn School of Veterinary Medicine. This is what I was born to do. At the age of 3, I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian. God instilled a passion for Veterinary Medicine in me. I am a MOM to a delightful 5-year-old boy and the wife to a gifted husband. I have recently become a beekeeper and am learning this new art. Taking care of our farm and its critters, as well as the land, absorb the remaining time. I have been practicing Exotic and Avian Medicine for almost 20 years and continue to be challenged every single day.
Dr. Michelle Floyd
Associate Veterinarian
While I entered into the veterinary field with a special interest in shelter medicine and helping those without families, I have found what I truly enjoy about clinical practice is the bond I develop with pets and their humans. I love meeting families and watching their pets grow over the years with them, and I will always work to keep them happy and healthy for as long as possible. My special interests include internal medicine, solving the puzzles of different complex conditions, as well as dentistry and dermatology. I received my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Florida in 2014. Prior to that, I majored in both Biology and Chemistry at Western Kentucky University, received my Bachelor’s in 2009, and graduated from the Honors program. Since childhood, I’ve always been drawn to aiding the small and sick. I am passionate about supporting animals when they’re scared or hurt and guiding families in the care of their furry friends. I started in the animal field as a receptionist and kennel tech, working up to a technician in a small and exotics hospital. I’ve found my groove in taking a proactive role in the management and treatment of diseases as a veterinarian, and I wouldn’t change it! Any spare time is usually spent corralling two toddlers, but I also enjoy cooking, reading, and playing various sports (volleyball, pickleball, Spikeball). My true passion is playing Ultimate Frisbee, and I compete on a traveling women’s team at a national level as well as play in a city league in the Gainesville area.
Felicity S.
Lead Veterinary Technician
Felicity is currently enrolled in the Veterinary Technician program at Penn Foster and is set to graduate at the end of 2025 with an Associate of Science degree. She plans to take the NVTE in early 2026.
She chose this career due to her love of animals and the opportunity it provides to help them live long, happy, and healthy lives. She enjoys the continuous learning and educational opportunities that veterinary medicine offers as the field evolves.
In her free time, Felicity enjoys spending time outdoors fishing, swimming, and visiting family. Occasionally, she becomes deeply focused on a new art project.
Rebekah F.
Veterinary Technician
I have always loved animals, and I have always wanted to be a voice for them. I have spent the past 5 years as a technician in a small animal practice, and I am looking forward to continuing that role. I obtained my Bachelor of Microbiology and Cell Science at the University of Florida, and I am now currently at St. Petersburg College, enrolled in the Veterinary Nurse Technology program. I chose to work in this field as it gives me the opportunity to be a voice for the animals. I am a very outdoor type of person and enjoy riding my horses, traveling, and hiking to new places, along with spending quality time with my family. Spending time on the river in a kayak is one of my favorite things to do around Alachua.
Jasmine B.
Veterinary Technician
I’ve worked in the animal care field for 5 years and even through the most stressful of times, I have loved this career. Being able to provide care and comfort to animals, even if it is just offering a treat, will always be my biggest joy and my reason for doing this. I graduated from University of Central Florida in 2019 with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and have hopes of attending Vet School in the future. I have a little black cat, Nakia, that keeps me on my toes. In my free time I like to make art, try new recipes, relax and take naps.
Alissa W.
Receptionist & Social Media Coordinator
I have worked in this industry for almost 9 years now. I started off in a private practice back in my hometown, where I worked for a little over 4 years. I then ventured into the Shelter atmosphere. Now I am a Small animal and Avian/Exotic Technician here at Hilltop. Throughout my childhood, I would nurse any and every creature I found injured. I decided animals are where my heart is truly at. I wanted to do my part in helping them where I could and making a difference. In my free time, I enjoy Kayaking, fishing, exploring the local springs and beaches, hunting, and spending time with family.
Garrett B.
Kennel Assistant
I had been an animal lover for my whole life, specifically dogs and cats, and now I finally get to work with them every day. My whole life, I had been an animal lover and had always wanted to work with them. Now that I am with Hilltop, I am finally able to do that. Outside work, my hobbies consist of reading, playing the guitar, and exercising (muscular exercises).
Justin Y.
Kennel Assistant
I have always had a big passion for animals! Ever since I was a kid and got my first pet, I have fallen in love with giving animals the care and love they deserve. I chose to work in the veterinary industry because I enjoy providing care for animals and find it brings me a sense of accomplishment and happiness coming into work every day. Outside of the office, I like to play sports and video games and spend time with friends and family. I also like to spend time swimming at the springs in town at High Springs, Florida.
Shannon Beach
Practice Manager
Shannon has been in the veterinary field for 20 years. Originally from Maryland, she has had the opportunity to work in clinics across the country, including Hawaii. Her journey in veterinary medicine began in 2001 as a part-time receptionist—a “fun” job that quickly became her passion. Dedicated to making the world a better place for animals, Shannon strives to educate clients on best practices, provide comfort through belly rubs and treats, and support both pets and their owners through difficult moments. In her free time, she spends time at home with her 3 dogs, 3 cats, and two grandchildren When she can, she loves to travel to different music festivals all over the world.
Astrid H.
Customer service representative
I have been in the industry for about two years now. I am currently enrolled at Santa Fe college for my masters in biological sciences. I plan on transferring to The University of Florida in the future to study veterinary medicine. I pride myself in building trust and relationships with every client. In my free time I enjoy taking my two dogs for trail walks and going to the beach.
Hannah K.
Lead Client Service Representative
I’m a Lead Client Service Representative at Hilltop Family Vet. I have approximately four years of experience working with animals in both shelters and veterinary clinics, and am currently enrolled in Penn Fosters Veterinary Technician Program. As a receptionist at Hilltop Family Vet, I take pride in my ability to provide compassionate care and support to both animals and their owners. I aim to ensure that our clients are confident that their pets are in great hands. I enjoy being the first person who clients talk to and making them feel welcomed and comfortable. Whether I’m doing office work, or providing hands on care to animals,I am dedicated to contributing positively to the health and well-being of our patients!
In my free time, I love to care for my little “zoo” which includes my Panther Chameleon, 2 Crested Geckos, 2 Leopard geckos, Bearded Dragon, My 2 dogs, 3 cats, and then my ferret.
Francesca
Customer service representative
I am a Client Service Representative here at Hilltop. I have been working in the veterinary medicine industry for about 2 years, with most of that focused on shelter medicine. However, I have spent my entire life working with a variety of animals on my family farm and through my time in FFA. Currently I am working towards my Bachelors degrees in Animal Science. When it comes to veterinary medicine I pride myself in being compassionate, understanding, and knowledgeable.
In my free time I love to spend time with my Basset Hound, Jethroe and my husband. We enjoy hiking, going to the beach, and caring for my dairy goats.
Melanie D.
Veterinary Technician
My love for animals started when I was just a little girl running around the vet office my mom worked for. My love grew from there as my first job was as a kennel technician, and knew from there where I wanted to start my career. I have a passion for small and large animals. In my free time, I like to ride my horses and play with my pups.