TexVetPets Writers
John Barnes, DVM
Uvalde, Texas
John Barnes, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Uvalde, Texas. Dr. Barnes runs Barnes Veterinary Service, his part-time mobile practice, and specializes in small animals and exotics. Prior to 2012, he co-owned and practicsessumed at the Southwest Texas Veterinary Medical Center in Uvalde. Dr. Barnes participates in studies on Bartonellosis, Chagas, Leishmaniasis and Coccidioidomycosis. In his free time, he enjoys singing and spending time with his four grandchildren.
Bonnie Beaver, DVM, DACVB
College Station, Texas
Bonnie Beaver, DVM, DACVB, is a graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in College Station, Texas. Dr. Beaver is a professor in the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences at Texas A&M University. Dr. Beaver is internationally recognized for her work in the normal and abnormal behaviors of animals. She has given more than 250 scientific presentations on subjects of animal behavior, animal welfare, and the human-animal bond, as well as discussed many areas of veterinary medicine for the public media. In addition, she has authored more than 150 scientific articles and has nine published books. Dr. Beaver is a member of numerous local, state, and national professional organizations and has served as president of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, the American College of Animal Welfare, the Texas Veterinary Medical Association and the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Alex Betzen, DVM
Houston, Texas
Alex Betzen, DVM, is a graduate of Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, who practices at Westbury Animal Hospital in Houston, Texas. Dr. Betzen’s favorite aspect of veterinary medicine is gastroenterology and pain management. In his free time, he enjoys road cycling. Dr. Betzen says, “Go Wildcats!”
Stan Blackwell, DVM
Nacogdoches, Texas
Stan Blackwell, DVM, is a graduate of Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. He also received his Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) with concentrations in Finance and Management Information Systems from the University of Michigan. Dr. Blackwell resides in the oldest town in Texas—Nacogdoches. He works as a federal government employee as a veterinarian. Prior to this work, he practiced small animal veterinary medicine at his four-doctor veterinary hospital and served as a director on the board of an accredited veterinary technician program. Dr. Blackwell loves the challenges of internal medicine, utilizing his analytical abilities to determine the best method of treatment for his patients. In his free time, Dr. Blackwell enjoys magic, ballroom dancing and gardening. His gardens in Michigan included more than 135 varieties of the Hosta plant. He is also president of the Nacogdoches Guild of Ballet and Dance, which he co-founded to bring dance to his town and its surrounding communities.
Wendy Blount, DVM
Nacogdoches, Texas
Wendy Blount, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Nacogdoches, Texas. She completed her internal medicine residency at Texas A&M University in 1997. Dr. Blount practices at Eastex Veterinary Clinic. She is the medical director for O’Mally PET low cost spay-neuter clinic and also gives continuing education seminars. Dr. Blount has a special interest in small animal internal medicine, oncology and shelter medicine. In her free time, she enjoys gardening and snowmobiling.
Justin Box, DVM
Austin, Texas
Justin Box, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Austin. Dr. Box practices at Justin Box Veterinary Services where he has a special interest in both large and small animals, specifically production animals. He enjoys making farm calls because he can devote all of his attention to one client without distractions. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, paddle boarding, kayaking and playing tennis.
Suzanne Brown, DVM
Belton, Texas
Suzanne Brown, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Belton, Texas. Dr. Brown practices at Belton Small Animal Clinic and Central Texas Mobile Veterinary Ultrasound, a mobile ultrasound business that serves the Waco, Temple and Killeen areas. Additionally, Dr. Brown is the president of the Animal Emergency Center of Temple-Belton. She has a special interest in diagnostic ultrasound, cardiology and internal medicine. In her free time, Dr. Brown enjoys reading, international travel and spending time with her family.
K. Wade Burton, DVM
Liberty Hill, Texas
K. Wade Burton, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Burton currently works for Merial as a Technical Service Veterinarian. He also provides technical support to the faculty, students and staff at Texas A&M and Louisiana State University. Dr. Burton also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Texas Veterinary Medical Foundation and the Board of Managers for Southwest Veterinary Symposium. His professional interests include heartworm disease, parasitology and preventative medicine. He and his wife, also a veterinarian, live in Liberty Hill, Texas with their four dogs, two cats and three horses. In his free time, Dr. Burton is an avid sportsman and enjoys travelling with his wife. In his community, Dr. Burton is an active member of the Lions Club International and serves on the Board of Directors of the Lone Star Lions Eye Bank, a regional corneal tissue eye bank.
Cindy Carter, DVM
Austin, Texas
Cindy Carter, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Austin, Texas. Dr. Carter began her career as a relief veterinarian servicing more than 18 hospitals in the Austin area but finally found a home as an associate veterinarian at Austin Corner Vet. She has a strong interest in feline medicine and dentistry. In her free time Dr. Carter enjoys outdoor activities, traveling and yoga.
Jeff Chalkley, DVM
Houston, Texas
Jeff Chalkey, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Houston, Texas. Dr. Chalkley practices at Westbury Animal Hospital where his favorite aspect of his work is helping clients. In his free time, he enjoys kayaking.
Sue Chen, DVM, DABVP
Houston, Texas
Sue Chen, DVM, DABVP, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Houston, Texas. Dr. Chen is board-certified in avian medicine by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. She practices avian and exotic medicine at Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists. In her free time, she enjoys cooking (and eating!), pilates, traveling to explore different cultures and working on art projects with her daughter.
Jessica Colborn, DVM
Magnolia, Texas
Jessica Colborn, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Magnolia, Texas. Dr. Colborn practices as a relief and emergency veterinarian. She is particularly interested in dermatology, soft tissue surgery and emergency and critical care. Dr. Colborn also enjoys working with senior pets and looking for ways to improve their quality of life. She is a member of the American Heartworm Society and the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society. In her free time, Dr. Colborn enjoys swimming, hiking, camping and gardening with her husband and daughter. Their family also includes a standard poodle, Phoebe, and Simon, a boxer puppy.
Crystal Coleman, DVM
Hico, Texas
Crystal Coleman, DVM, is a graduate of Ross University who lives in Hico, Texas. Dr. Coleman practices at The Hico Veterinary Clinic. Her favorite aspect of veterinary medicine is internal medicine and preventive medicine. In her free time, she enjoys running, cooking, studying the Bible and playing with her kids.
Nicole Dockrey, DVM
Austin, Texas
Nicole Dockrey, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Austin, Texas. Dr. Dockrey practices at the Emergency Animal Hospital of Northwest Austin with two branches in north and south Austin. Dr. Dockrey is credentialed as a diplomate of the American Academy of Pain Management. Some aspects of veterinary medicine that particularly interest her include pain management, critical care medicine and anesthesiology. Prior to having children, her favorite extracurricular activity was sleep. Now she drinks a lot of coffee and in her free time enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and hiking and biking off the effects of Austin’s food and craft brew scene. Dr. Dockrey strongly believes that “the vast majority of veterinary doctors and staff are trustworthy, hardworking individuals who walk around with huge hearts and super wrinkly brains (that’s the smart kind).”
Brandon Dominguez, DVM
College Station, Texas
Brandon Dominguez, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and lives in College Station, Texas. Dr. Dominguez works for the college as part of Veterinary Large Animal Clinical Sciences, the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital and the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. He enjoys broadening individual animal problems to populations, incorporating aspects of environmental and human health. In his free time, Dr. Dominguez enjoys spending time with his family.
Erin Dresner, DVM, MS, DABVP
The Woodlands, Texas
Erin Dresner, DVM, MS, DABVP-Feline Practice is a graduate of Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Dresner practices at Just Cats Veterinary Services in The Woodlands, Texas. Her favorite aspects of veterinary medicine are feline internal medicine, geriatric medicine and strengthening the human-feline bond. Dr. Dresner is currently in the process of completing an American Board of Veterinary Practitioners Feline Practice residency. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, photography and DIY projects.
Julie Ducoté, DVM
Dallas, Texas
Julie Ducoté, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Dallas. Dr. Ducoté serves as the medical director at the Center for Veterinary Specialty + Emergency Care in Lewisville, Texas. She is board certified in neurology and is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, hiking and spending time with family.
Ariana Finkelstein, DVM
San Antonio, Texas
Ariana Finkelstein, DVM, is a graduate of Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine. She currently practices at Mission Pet Emergency in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Finkelstein’s special interests include emergency medicine, exotic animal practice and non-traditional species including birds, reptiles, small and exotic mammals, zoo species and wildlife. In her free time, Dr. Finkelstein enjoys scuba diving, traveling, diving, underwater photography, working out and spending time outdoors. She lives with her husband, one dog, two cats, two birds and fish. She and her husband try to travel to her home state of New Jersey as often as they can to experience the beach and four seasons.
Amanda Florsheim, DVM, CBCC-KA
Dallas, Texas
Amanda Florsheim, DVM, CBCC-KA, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Dallas. Dr. Florsheim owns Veterinary Behavior Solutions and the Veterinary Behavior Solutions Training Studio in Carrollton, Texas. She specializes in behavioral medicine and acupuncture. While at A&M, she was selected as a Geraldine R. Dodge Frontiers of Veterinary Medicine Fellow, a national fellowship awarded to select students from across the country pursuing research. In 2002, she was earned the Skipper Stephens Award for her work in promoting a better understanding of the human-animal bond. Prior to practicing veterinary medicine, she received a fellowship to attend Emory University for a Ph.D. in history. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, swimming, kayaking, reading. She also loves spending time with her dogs Sebastian and Cubby and cats including Hobbes, a sizable orange tabby who is often featured in the clinic’s training videos.
Tyler Foreman, DVM
Rowlett, Texas
Tyler Foreman, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Foreman practices at Rowlett Veterinary Clinic in Rowlett, where his favorite aspect of veterinary medicine is surgical diseases. In his free time, Dr. Foreman is an avid reader.
Elizabeth Fowler, DVM
New Braunfels, Texas
Elizabeth Fowler, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in New Braunfels, Texas. Dr. Fowler practices at County Line Veterinary Clinic. She practices small animal medicine and particularly enjoys internal medicine. In her free time, Dr. Fowler enjoys hiking, cooking and reading.
Joanne Franks, DVM, DACVS
Grapevine, Texas
Joanne Franks, DVM, graduated from Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine and currently works at the Dallas Veterinary Surgical Center. She became board-certified in small animal surgery in 2001. Dr. Franks says of her surgery specialty, “I unquestionably found the perfect career path. It is extremely rewarding to see my patients run and play, breathe easier, or beat cancer because of a surgery I performed on them. My goal is to provide skilled and compassionate care for my patients and clients.” Dr. Franks lives in The Colony, Texas with her husband, two children, a Boston terrier, Doberman pinscher, a one-eyed cat, a corn snake and a ball python. In her free time, Dr. Franks enjoys spending time with her children, reading, traveling and going to beautiful beaches. Dr. Franks participates in Expanding Your Horizons, a program that introduces girls in middle school to careers in math and science, as well as the Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day for the Cure eight times, raising over $20,000 in honor of her grandmothers. In addition, both she and her sons are members of the Young Men’s Service League.
Tam Garland, DVM, PhD, DABVT
College Station, TX
Tam Garland, DVM, PhD, DABVT, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in College Station, Texas. Dr. Garland practices at Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory where she enjoys being a “disease detective” and helping her clients and those who call the lab
Erin Gatz, DVM
Katy, TX
Erin Gatz, DVM, is a graduate of University of Minnesota who lives in Katy, Texas. Dr. Gatz practices at the Houston SPCA. She is passionate about equine medicine, more specifically, dentistry, internal medicine cases and mare and foal care. Dr. Gatz also enjoys teaching students, owners and the public and being a steward of animal welfare. In her free time, she enjoys riding her horse, running and spending time with friends.
Emily Gaugh, DVM
Houston, Texas
Emily Gaugh, DVM, is a graduate of Kansas State College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Houston, Texas. Dr. Gaugh practices at Westbury Animal Hospital. She has a special interest in critical care and soft tissue surgery. In her free time, Dr. Gaugh enjoys spending time outdoors with her dog.
Hilary Granson, DVM
Houston, Texas
Hilary Granson, DVM, is a graduate of Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Houston, Texas. Dr. Granson practices at Urban Animal Veterinary Hospital. Her favorite aspects of veterinary medicine include internal medicine, anesthesia, pain management clinical pathology and immunology. In addition to cats and dogs, Dr. Granson enjoys treating avian and exotic patients. In her free time, she enjoys motorcycle riding, target shooting, finding good restaurants and attending concerts.
David Heflin, DVM
Mission, Texas
David Heflin, DVM works at Mission Veterinary Hospital in Mission, Texas. Dr. Heflin lives in McAllen, Texas. He is especially interested in the use of ultrasound in veterinary medicine. In his free time, Dr. Heflin enjoys fishing, hiking, golfing, skiing and anything that involves sunshine.
Terry Hensley, DVM, MS
College Station, Texas
Terry Hensley, DVM, MS, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine, who practices at Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory and Texas AgriLife Extension Service in College Station. Dr. Hensley’s favorite aspect of veterinary medicine is large animals, particularly equine and wildlife. In his free time, he enjoys riding horses and participating in outdoor activities.
Carol Hillhouse, DVM
Panhandle, Texas
Carol Hillhouse, DVM is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and lives in Panhandle, Texas. She and her husband own two mixed animal practices, Carson County Veterinary Clinic in Panhandle, Texas, and High Plains Animal Hospital in Borger, Texas. Dr. Hillhouse is a diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, certified in canine and feline practice. She volunteers as a representative of the Veterinary Information Network (VIN), as well as serves on the VIN Foundation Board, a philanthropic organization that provides advocacy and support for veterinary professionals. In her free time, Dr. Hillhouse is an avid geocacher, knits, plays the flute and is the leader of two Girl Scout troops.
Darby Sherrod Horne, DVM
Magnolia, Texas
Darby Sherrod Horne, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and lives in Magnolia, Texas. She practices at Equine Partners Veterinary Services, PLLC, in Waller, Texas. Dr. Horne specializes in breeding and reproduction. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, rock climbing and spending time outdoors.
Joanna Hughes, DVM
San Antonio, Texas
Joanna Hughes, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Hughes works for the Department of Defense Military Working Dog Veterinary Service at the LTC Daniel E. Holland Memorial Military Working Dog Hospital located at Joint Base San Antonio Lackland. Dr. Hughes is a general practitioner who has a special interest in dermatology and internal medicine.
Carol Hurst, LVT
Sugar Land, Texas
Carol Hurst, LVT, CVPM, CVJ, is a graduate of McLennan Community College who lives in Houston, Texas. She leads a team of 30 at ABC Animal & Bird Clinic in Sugar Land, Texas. She is one of the founding members of the Houston Veterinary Practice Managers Association, where she currently serves as President. In 2016 she established her own consulting company, Blue Flame Veterinary Consulting, where she hopes to inspire other managers to lead their practices to success. Her current interests include dog behavior, client education, nutrition, communication training and team building. In her free time, she enjoys participating in pet-related fundraising events, yoga and writing articles on leadership topics. Her husband and she are owned by their senior boxer, Enzo, and three-legged rescue boxer, Trip.
Marcus Hutka, DVM
Navasota, Texas
Marcus Hutka, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Navasota, Texas. Dr. Hutka practices at Equine Partners Veterinary Service in Waller, Texas, where he has a special interest in equine reproductive medicine. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his four children, fishing and hunting.
Cecily Jennings, DVM
Houston, Texas
Cecily Jennings, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Houston, Texas. Dr. Jennings practices at Banfield Pet Hospital in Pearland. Her favorite aspects of veterinary medicine are emergency, trauma medicine and zoonotic disease. In her free time, Dr. Jennings enjoys gourmet cooking.
Whitney Keller, DVM
McAllen, Texas
Whitney Keller, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in McAllen, Texas. Dr. Keller practices at Veterinary Wellness Center where she has a special interest in internal medicine, ultrasound and client education. In her free time, Dr. Keller enjoys traveling, reading and gardening.
Kevin Kettler, DVM
Dickinson, Texas
Kevin Kettler, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Dickinson, Texas. Dr. Kettler practices at Dickinson Animal Hospital and Pet Wellness Center, where his favorite aspects of veterinary medicine are surgery and dentistry. In his free time, Dr. Kettler enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and children.
Merry Kroeger, DVM
North Richland Hills, Texas
Merry Kroeger, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in North Richland Hills, Texas. Dr. Kroeger practices at CityVet at the Preston Forest location in Dallas. Dr. Kroeger’s favorite aspect of veterinary medicine is dentistry, dermatology, ophthalmology and neurology. In her free time, Dr. Kroeger enjoys playing the piano, reading both classic and Christian novels, attending Bible study at church, scrapbooking, bike riding and hiking the tallest mountain peaks in different states with her sisters.
David Landers, DVM
Dallas, Texas
David Landers, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Dallas. Dr. Landers works at AirVets Pet Relocation, which offers domestic and international pet shipping. He specializes in International Health Certifications. In his free time, he enjoys gardening and scuba diving.
Catherine Lenox, DVM
Houston, Texas
Catherine Lenox, DVM is a graduate of the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Houston, Texas. Dr. Lenox owns Lenox Veterinary Nutrition Consulting. Her practice offers nutrition consultations, acupuncture and distance nutrition consults for veterinarians worldwide. She is also affiliated with Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists and Last Wishes In-Home Pet Hospice and Euthanasia. Dr. Lenox was board certified by the American College of Veterinary Nutrition in 2011. In her free time, Dr. Lenox enjoys reading a good novel and spending time with her husband and cats, Kiwi and Sprout.
William Liska, DVM
Sugar Land, Texas
William Liska, DVM, is a graduate of Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Liska became board-certified by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons in 1980. Dr. Liska received the 1999 Practitioner of the Year and the 2009 Specialty Practitioner of the Year Awards from the Texas Veterinary Medical Association. He was awarded the American Veterinary Medical Association Practitioner Research Award in 2009 for his canine and feline hip and knee replacement studies. Dr. Liska has played a significant role in the development of the canine total knee replacement, the Micro total hip replacement for small dogs and for cats and a new upgrade design of hip replacement implants for larger dogs. Dr. Liska founded and now dedicates his career to Global Veterinary Specialists and the Global Veterinary Specialists Foundation.
Heidi Lobprise, DVM
Flower Mound, Texas
Heidi Lobprise, DVM, a Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College, graduated from Texas the A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine. She worked in private practice in the Dallas area for nearly 20 years, and became a board-certified veterinary dentist in 1993. After serving as the Senior Technical Manager for Virbac Corporation, she returned to dental specialty practice in 2014 at Main Street Veterinary Hospital in Flower Mound, Texas. She is the author/co-author of three dental texts, including the newly released second edition of Five Minute Veterinary Consult – Clinical Companion Small Animal Dentistry. She has written many chapters and articles and has lectured internationally.
Megan McCarthy, DVM
Fort Worth, Texas
Megan McCarthy, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Dallas/Fort Worth. Dr. McCarthy practices at North Texas Veterinary Clinic in Fort Worth. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, riding horses, running and visiting family.
Heather McCauley, DVM
Rockwall, Texas
Heather McCauley, DVM, is a graduate of University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine who lives near Rockwall, Texas. Dr. McCauley practices as a relief veterinarian serving the eastern Dallas metroplex to Tyler areas for McCauley Veterinary Services. She especially enjoys complicated internal medicine cases, dermatology, ophthalmology and behavioral medicine. “My favorite aspects of all these disciplines are solving puzzles, trying to understand what my patients are telling me, and translating this information in a clear and simple way to their humans so together we can find the right solution,” said Dr. McCauley. In her free time, she enjoys writing mystery stories, reading (especially mysteries, non-fiction and work by C.S. Lewis), doing puzzles and brainteasers, growing old English roses and watercolor painting. Dr. McCauley said that if she had room for another hobby, it would be quilting.
Shawn Messonnier, DVM
Plano, Texas
Shawn Messonnier, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine. He lives in Plano, Texas and practices at Paws & Claws Animal Hospital and Holistic Pet Center. His specialties are holistic/naturopathic medicine, dermatology, oncology and senior pet care. In his free time, Dr. Messonnier performs vocals, guitar and keyboard in a band, and performs mentalism/magic as a part-time job. He is also an award-winning author and radio show host on Martha Stewart Radio.
Heather K. Moberly, MSLS, PgCert (Vet Ed), AHIP
Bryan, Texas
Heather K Moberly, MSLS, PgCert (Vet Ed), AHIP, FHEA, has been an academic librarian for more than 20 years and began specializing in veterinary information in 2001. Prior to her appointment at Texas A&M University in 2013 she directed the veterinary library at Oklahoma State University.
Kathleen Morriss, DVM
Junction, Texas
Kathleen Morriss, DVM, is a graduate of Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. She lives in Junction, Texas, on her family’s ranch and does relief work at small and mixed animal practices in the Austin and San Antonio areas. Her specialties are large animal medicine, especially equine dentistry, podiatry and reproduction with a special fondness for goats. In her free time, Dr. Morriss raises and trains Quarter Horses and periodically visits her husband in Brazil.
Ashley Navarrette, DVM
College Station, Texas
Ashley Navarrette, DVM, MS, MS, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in College Station, Texas. Dr. Navarrette works at Texas A&M University, where she practices small animal emergency medicine and occasional relief work both in emergency and small animal general practice. She is particularly interested in internal medicine for large and small animals and dermatology. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, wildlife photography and Netflix binges. Dr. Navarrette shares her home with two Border Collies, an American Pit Bull Terrier, three box turtles and an opinionated koi.
Christine New, DVM
Dallas, Texas
Christine New, DVM, graduated from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and practices at Hillside Veterinary Clinic in Dallas. Dr. New is a member of Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Society, Texas Veterinary Medical Association, American Veterinary Medical Association and Collin County Veterinary Medical Association. Dr. New enjoys all areas of small animal medicine, particularly emergency medicine. She is also particularly interested in soft tissue surgery, toxicology and pain management. In her free time, Dr. New enjoys spending time with her family and exploring Dallas’ children venues with her husband, son and daughter. She also enjoys cooking, crafting and relaxing with a good mystery novel on the couch with her two miniature dachshunds, Oscar and Jack.
Gary Norsworthy, DVM
San Antonio, Texas
Gary Norsworthy, DVM, is a feline-only specialist who is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine. He lives in San Antonio, Texas and owns the Alamo Feline Health Center. Dr. Norsworthy frequently lectures on feline diseases and is the editor and major author of six feline textbooks, the most recent being The Feline Patient, 4th Edition, which has been translated into six other languages. Dr. Norsworthy is a charter diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in the Feline Practice category, and an adjunct professor at the colleges of veterinary medicine at Mississippi State University and the Western University of Health Sciences. He earned TVMA’s Practitioner of the Year Award in the Medical Specialist category in 2009. In his free time, Dr. Norsworthy enjoys spending time with his grandchildren.
James O’Bryan, DVM
Paris, Texas
James O’Bryan, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Paris, Texas. Dr. O’Bryan practices at Paris Veterinary Associates in Paris, Texas, which is a new clinic in Lamar County. He enjoys teaching clients and staff members, problem solving and learning new information each day. His clinic handles many referral cases that address chronic dermatitis; cardiology, oncology and behavioral problems; and severe orthopedic fractures. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family and “tinkering, inventing and repairing just about anything.”
Merten Pearson, DVM
Amarillo, Texas
Merten G. Pearson, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and lives in Amarillo, Texas. Dr. Pearson practices at Noah’s Ark Pet Hospital and Pet Dental Center of Amarillo and is on the TVMA Board of Directors. He frequently performs surgery and dentistry, and he especially enjoys orthopedic surgery. Some highlights of his career include putting braces on a dog’s teeth and performing two root canals on a lioness! In his free time, Dr. Pearson enjoys bicycling, exercising, gardening, collecting butterflies and serving in his church responsibilities. He spent two years as a missionary in Uruguay, South America, where he learned to speak Spanish, a skill he continues to use in his practice today. He and his wife, also a veterinarian, have two children. Of his wife, Dr. Pearson says, “We have very complementary skills. She is the medicine person in the family and I am the surgeon.”
Paula Plummer, LVT, VTS (ECC, SAIM)
College Station, Texas
Paula Plummer, LVT, VTS (ECC, SAIM), graduated from Murray State College in Tishomingo, Oklahoma. Ms. Plummer works in the Feline Internal Medicine Department at the Texas A&M University Veterinary Teaching Hospital in College Station, Texas. In 2011, Ms. Plummer became a veterinary technician specialist in emergency and critical care. Her interests within the veterinary field include feline medicine, diabetes mellitus and adrenal gland abnormalities. Of her job, Ms. Plummer says, “I love getting to teach fourth year veterinary student clinical procedures and helping them become better patient advocates.” In her free time, Ms. Plummer enjoys running barrels, teaching online classes and guest lecturing at continuing education events to fellow veterinary technicians. She also enjoys spending time with her husband and furry, four-legged family.
Jennifer Posern
El Paso, Texas
Jennifer Posern is a graduate of the Tomball College Veterinary Technology Program, now known as Lone Star College. In the past, she worked for Waller Veterinary Clinic. Her favorite aspects of veterinary medicine are client education and chronic care management. Ms. Posern lives in El Paso with her husband, Eric, son Cole, long-haired dachshund Buster, terrier Abby, Papillon Marcy, a Persian cat, Killer, and an Eclectus parrot, Rome. In her free time, Ms. Posern enjoys reading and baking.
Molly Price, DVM
Allen, Texas
Molly Price, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Houston, Texas. She is a relief veterinarian and is enthusiastic about client and hospital staff education, dermatology, cytology and pain management. Her husband is also an Aggie. She has two children, a Golden Retriever and a Tuxedo cat. She enjoys playing violin and viola at her church and occasionally accompanies the church choir and the local elementary school choir concert on piano.
Kira Ramdas, DVM
The Woodlands, Texas
Kira Ramdas, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and lives in The Woodlands, Texas. Dr. Ramdas practices at Just Cats Veterinary Services where she practices feline medicine and surgery, with a particular interest in infectious diseases. In her free time, Dr. Ramdas enjoys reading and participating in her local book club, belting out pop tunes and Broadway hits, and traveling to exotic locales and Disneyworld. She and her husband, an accountant, have three cats, Tobias Funke, Dallas and Sir Pippin of JerseyVillageshire.
MJ Redman, DVM
San Antonio, Texas
MJ Redman, DVM, is a graduate of Washington State University who lives in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Redman practices at MissionVet Specialty & Emergency and specializes in veterinary dentistry and oral surgery. In her free time, she enjoys competitive trail and ultra-running, reading and spending time with her family and pets.
Mary Newell Sanders, DVM
Bellville, Texas
Mary Newell Sanders, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and lives in Bellville, Texas. Dr. Sanders practices at Marek Veterinary Clinics in Bellville and Sealy, Texas. Her specialties are soft tissue surgery and small animal internal medicine. She and her husband have four daughters. In her free time, Dr. Sanders enjoys running, reading and participating in equestrian three-day events.
Jacquelyn Schrock, DVM
Fulshear, Texas
Jacquelyn Schrock, DVM, is a graduate of Oklahoma State College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Fulshear, Texas. Dr. Schrock is the Medical Director for Banfield Pet Hospital in south Houston, where she especially enjoys preventative care and internal medicine, especially when they go hand-in-hand. In her free time, Dr. Schrock dabbles in painting mixed media abstract art and running. She’s currently working toward participating in her first 10K. Dr. Schrock’s family consists of her husband, one child, one dog and two cats.
Danette Schweers, DVM
San Antonio, Texas
Danette Schweers, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in San Antonio. Dr. Schweers practices at Animal Emergency Room in San Antonio.
David Sessum, LVT
Bryan, Texas
David Sessum, LVT, is a graduate of Lone Star College-Tomball who lives in Bryan, Texas. Sessum works at Lone Star College-Tomball Veterinary Technology Department. His favorite aspect of veterinary medicine is surgery, pain management and rehabilitation, food animal and equine medicine. In his free time, Sessum enjoys playing guitar and showing donkeys and mules. He was honored to be the first LVT to serve on the TVMA Board of Directors and the first LVT to chair a TVMA committee. Sessum was named 2009 TVMA Registered Veterinary Technician of the Year and 2019 TVMA Licensed Veterinary Technician of the Year.
Hillary Olin Smith, DVM
Navasota, Texas
Hillary Olin Smith, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and lives in Navasota, Texas. She works for three different practices: Hempstead Veterinary Clinic in Hempstead, Texas; Waller Veterinary Clinic in Waller, Texas; and Beard-Navasota Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Smith especially enjoys feline medicine, soft tissue surgery and all aspects of bovine practice. As a mother of young twins, she enjoys spending most of her free time with them. Dr. Smith also enjoys reading, cross-stitching and doing crossword puzzles.
Lori Teller, DVM
Houston, Texas
Lori Teller, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and lives in Houston, Texas. She practices at Meyerland Animal Clinic. Dr. Teller is board-certified by, and a diplomate of, the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) in canine and feline medicine. Additionally, Dr. Teller served as president of TVMA in 2010. She especially enjoys cytology and treating internal medicine cases, particularly gastrointestinal, liver and urinary problems. When she’s lucky enough to get some free time on her hands, Dr. Teller enjoys going to the gym, Pilates, reading and spending time with her son, friends, dogs and cats. She also enjoys traveling with her husband, where they can explore new places and cultures and drink wine.
Celeste Treadway, DVM
Leander, Texas
Celeste Treadway, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and lives in Leander, Texas. Dr. Treadway has a special interest in emergency and critical care, along with feline medicine. In her free time, she enjoys trail running and hiking, yoga, boating and other water activities, and spending time with her family. “I grew up as an Army brat and have lived in numerous different states and countries, but I am so happy to have made settled into my (hopefully) final home in the beautiful Texas Hill country!” said Dr. Treadway.
Nancy Turner, DVM
Dallas, Texas
Nancy Turner, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Dallas, Texas. Her favorite aspects of veterinary medicine are behavior, nutrition, preventative medicine, internal medicine, client education and outreach. In her free time, Dr. Turner enjoys being with friends and family, watching and playing sports, seeing live music, traveling and reading.
Valarie Tynes, DVM, Dipl. ACVB
Sweetwater, Texas
Valarie Tynes, DVM, Dipl. ACVB, graduated from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine. She lives in Sweetwater, Texas, and practices at Premier Veterinary Behavior Consulting. Dr. Tynes specializes in behavior medicine with a special interest in exotic pets and zoo animals. In her free time, Dr. Tynes enjoys traveling, reading and cooking.
John Unflat, DVM
Austin, Texas
John Unflat, DVM, is a graduate of Kansas State College of Veterinary Medicine and lives in Austin, Texas. Dr. Unflat does relief veterinary work in Austin, and also regularly practices at Barton Creek Animal Clinic and Companion Animal Hospital. His website is located at www.unflatvet.com. Dr. Unflat’s favorite aspects of veterinary medicine are performing soft tissue surgery, challenging medical cases and helping people with their new puppies and kittens. In his free time, Dr. Unflat enjoys hunting, fishing, household projects, watching a good movie, reading a good book, and spending time with his children, wife and friends.
Lynsey Wagner, DVM, DACVO
San Antonio, Texas
Lynsey Wagner, DVM, DACVO, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Wagner is a board-certified diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists who practices at South Texas Veterinary Ophthalmology. In her free time, Dr. Wagner enjoys spending time with her husband and family, staying fit, keeping up with Aggie football, watching movies, reading and two-stepping!
Rebecca Westbrook, DVM
Rowlett, Texas
Rebecca Westbrook, DVM, is a graduate of the University of Tennessee School of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Rowlett, Texas. She practices at Loving Paws Veterinary House Calls, which she founded in 2009 when she realized there was no full-time veterinarian in the area performing in-home euthanasia. Dr. Westbrook says that she is honored that her clients allow her to be a part of the last moments with their beloved pets. In her free time, she enjoys gardening and reading mysteries and fantasy epics.
Jamie Whittenburg, DVM
Lubbock, Texas
Jamie Whittenburg, DVM, is a graduate of Kansas State College of Veterinary Medicine and completed post-graduate training at Texas A&M University. Dr. Whittenburg opened her own clinic, Kingsgate Animal Hospital, in 2013 in Lubbock, Texas. Prior to attending veterinary school, she spent years working as a veterinary technician in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex-area in both small animal and equine clinics. In her free time, Dr. Whittenburg enjoys reading, outdoor activities and spending time with friends and her adorable young daughter.
Virginia Williams, DVM
Lago Vista, Texas
Virginia Williams, DVM, is a graduate of Oklahoma State College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Lago Vista, Texas. Dr. Williams practices at Lago Vista Animal Clinic, which she founded in 1994. Her favorite aspect of her work is developing long-term relationships with clients, their families and their pets. In her free time, Dr. Williams enjoys spending time with her family, and spending time outdoors, especially at the lake or beach.
Pam Wilson, LVT
Austin, Texas
Pam Wilson, LVT, graduated from Southern Illinois University with a bachelor of science in zoology. In 2002, she was the first recipient of TVMA’s Veterinary Technician of the Year Award. She also has a Master of Education from University of Texas, and is a Licensed Veterinary Technician, a Certified Health Education Specialist and a Master Certified Health Education Specialist. Ms. Wilson lives in Austin, Texas and works at the Texas Department of State Health Services in the Zoonosis Control Branch. Ms. Wilson’s day-to-day work includes overseeing the state’s Animal Control Officer Training Program, drafting language for Texas Administrative codes that pertain to zoonosis control and developing educational materials. Ms. Wilson has written articles that have been published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association and Texas Veterinarian. She has also written three books, which can be found here. In her free time, she loves spending time with her dogs and cats—Banff and Zane keeping her the most busy.
Gretchen Wright, DVM
Dallas, Texas
Gretchen Wright, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine, who practices at Highland Park Animal Hospital in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Wright’s favorite aspect of veterinary medicine is soft tissue and orthopedic surgery. In her free time, she enjoys running and cycling.
James Wright, DVM, MPVM
Tyler, Texas
James Wright, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and has also earned a Master of Preventative Veterinary Medicine (MPVM) from the University of California at Davis. Dr. Wright dedicated 22 years of service in the US Air Force, in which he gained experience with disaster preparedness, food safety and communicable disease epidemiology. Dr. Wright has also worked as a regional Meat Safety Assurance Veterinary for the Department of State Health Services and a zoonosis veterinarian in the department’s zoonosis control program. In 2010, he was awarded the TVMA Distinguished Career Achievement Award and in 2013 was recognized as an Outstanding Alumnus of Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Wright is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine and its Epidemiology Specialty. In his free time, Dr. Wright enjoys going to the gym, playing racquetball, welding projects and spending time with his wife and grandchildren.
Michele Wright, DVM
San Antonio, Texas
Michele Wright, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and lives in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Wright practices at Lincoln Heights Animal Hospital in San Antonio. She loves every aspect of veterinary medicine, and especially enjoys internal medicine, dentistry and treating endocrine disease. In her free time, Dr. Wright enjoys baking cakes and making fondant animals, as well as creating crafts like cards, fascinators, scrapbooks. Dr. Wright attributes her love for veterinary medicine to her parents, Dr. Larry and Dr. Loretta Ehrlund. Of being a veterinarian, Dr. Wright says, “I love my job and look forward to helping others with their pets everyday.”
Audrey Yu-Speight, DVM
Austin, Texas
Audrey Yu-Speight, DVM, is a graduate of Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine who lives in Austin, Texas. Dr. Yu-Speight is a board-certified diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (DACVO) and practices at Veterinary Eye Center, which she founded in Austin. While earning her bachelor of science and master of science degrees at Stanford University, her areas of research included surface chemistry and drug process purification, and she continues to have a special interest in pharmacology and technology. Dr. Yu-Speight has received awards in public service, pharmacology, physiology and nutrition. In her free time she enjoys music and spending time with her family and outdoors.
Julie Liu, DVM
Austin, Texas
Dr. Julie Liu earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine in 2009, her Certification of Veterinary Acupuncture from the Chi Institute in 2018 and is a Fear Free Elite Certified Professional. She is also a AAFP Cat Friendly Veterinarian and is Low Stress Handling® Silver Certified. With 12 years of professional experience, she is an independent contractor licensed to practice in Texas and California. Read more about Dr. Liu on her website.