Sherle R. Thompson, Veterinarian & Owner
A “hometown girl,” Dr. Sherle R. Thompson grew up in nearby Hixson and remembers always bringing new animals home as a child.
“I have always known I would be a vet, since as far back as I can remember,” she says.
Dr. Thompson completed her undergraduate studies in Animal Science at Auburn University in 1993, and earned her doctorate in veterinary medicine at the university’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 1997. Upon graduating, she spent time doing relief work for local veterinary hospitals and opening her own mobile veterinary practice. Dr. Thompson joined the staff of South Rhea Animal Hospital in 2000, becoming an owner in 2005. Three years later she was instrumental in the founding and building of Sequoyah Animal Hospital. Dr. Thompson is now our animal hospital’s primary owner and manager.
“I like the challenge of diagnosing cases, being able to come up with a treatment plan and seeing the results,” she says.
Dr. Thompson is a member of the American, Tennessee, and Hamilton Veterinary Medical Associations. Her veterinary interests include internal medicine, reproduction, and cosmetic surgery.
“More recently, I’ve become involved in reproduction, especially focusing on working dogs such as German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds,” she says. “Soon we will be adding semen collection, frozen semen services, etc. to our hospital.”
Dr. Thompson raises German Shepherds and enjoys the orthopedic challenges the breed presents. She specializes in PennHip radiographs and frequently has clients who travel from out of state for orthopedic evaluations
When she has free time, Dr. Thompson enjoys movies, eating out with friends, camping, and water sports as well as competing in dog sports. Her primary competition dog (pictured here) is Hollywood.
Anna Hughes, Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Anna Hughes
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Hughes is a graduate of Lincoln Memorial College of Veterinary Medicine. She completed her undergraduate degree from the University of Kentucky and completed Master of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences degree at Lincoln Memorial University before pursuing her DVM.
Dr. Hughes has an interest in both small and large animals. She grew up on a Thoroughbred farm in Paris, KY, the daughter of veterinarian so it appears that her love of animals and veterinary care “runs on the blood”. Her primary focus is on small animal general practice as well as mixed animal practice.
Dr. Hughes can be found at our Sequoyah Hospital location as well as occasionally out on our ambulatory truck with Scenic City Veterinary Services providing both house and farm call services.
And by the way…..she has a little dog named “Otis”….we think he may be the real boss of the family.
Taylor Garner, Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Taylor Garner
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Taylor Garner joined Sequoyah Animal Hospital in the summer of 2025. She is a compassionate and skilled veterinarian who brings her expertise and love for animals to our practice. Originally from New Jersey, Dr. Garner grew up in Northwest Florida, where her passion for science and medicine took root. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology from Stetson University in 2020 before pursuing her veterinary education at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 2025.
Dr. Garner’s journey to veterinary medicine began during her college years as a veterinary assistant, where she discovered her calling to care for animals. Specializing in small animal care, she has a particular interest in surgery and internal medicine. Dr. Garner finds immense joy in building lasting relationships with pet parents and helping their beloved four-legged family members lead healthy, happy lives.
When she’s not in the clinic, Dr. Garner enjoys hiking, reading, and traveling. She shares her home with her husband and their two cats, Samwise and Eleanor, who keep her life full of love and adventure.
We’re thrilled to have Dr. Garner’s dedication and expertise as part of our team, providing exceptional care to our furry patients and their families.
Dr. Claire Smith, DVM
Dr. Claire Smith joined Sequoyah Animal Hospital in June 2026 after graduating from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. Her veterinary training emphasized both large and small animal medicine, giving her a well-rounded approach to patient care. Dr. Claire enjoys treating animals of all sizes and especially welcomes the opportunity to work with exotic pets when they come through the door.
Passionate about building strong relationships with both pets and their owners, Dr. Claire is committed to developing individualized treatment plans that meet the unique needs of every patient. She believes that the best veterinary care comes from collaboration, compassion, and open communication.
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Claire enjoys camping, playing the piano, and spending time with her pets. Her one-eyed cat, Toast, keeps her entertained as she teaches him new tricks, while her two pet rats, Emile and Huckleberry, are beloved members of the family—and surprisingly good friends with Toast.
