Meet Our Team

Hospital Managers

Shari

Practice Manager

Before moving to the position of Practice Manager in July 2006, Shari began work for Sequoyah Animal Hospital as a Veterinary Assistant. In addition to handling human resources, payroll, and training of our support staff, she is also tasked with operating the Sequoyah K9 Academy located next door.

Shari has developed a love of training, especially her own German Shepherds, which she has competed within multiple venues – obedience, protection and tracking. She has kept busy in this regard, titling several dogs under Service Dogs of America, IPO and AKC

Sarah

Office Manager

Managing Sequoyah Animal Hospital’s bustling office takes someone with an eagerness to regularly learn new things and an ability to assist in different areas of the clinic. Since June 2008, Sarah has done just that. In addition to overseeing our receptionists, maintaining inventory, placing orders, and working on various projects, Sarah even fills in at our sister facility, Sequoyah’s Muddy Buddies Dog Wash, when needed.

“After seven years of working here, the staff has become more like family,” she says. “We spend long hours together and we have a willingness to work as a team. Also, our clients are very loyal and it has been great to form relationships with them and their pets.”

When she’s not at work, Sarah enjoys spending time with her husband, kayaking, and being outdoors. The couple has six dogs and a seven-year-old cat named Callie. The canine bunch includes two Basset Hounds, Clyde and Sissy; two Australian Shepherds/mixes, Stump and Haven; a Lab mix named Sped; and a German Shorthaired Pointer mix named Poncho.

Rhonda

Inventory Manager/Doctor Assistant

Rhonda has been a dedicated member of our hospital team since 2008, bringing her passion for animal care and exceptional work ethic to every role she’s taken on. Starting in the kennel, Rhonda quickly proved her skill and commitment, advancing to veterinary assistant and then to surgery technician. Today, she shines as our inventory manager and personal assistant to our doctors, ensuring seamless operations and top-notch support for our veterinary team.

Raised on a farm, Rhonda’s love for animals began early, caring for a wide range of creatures- from baby pigs to chickens, turkeys, cows, horses, and the everyday dogs and cats. Her deep-rooted experience with animals has shaped her into the skilled and compassionate professional she is today.

Outside of work, Rhonda loves reading and hanging out and has embraced a new passion as a bee hobbyist, further showcasing her dedication to nurturing and caring for all creatures, big and small.

Receptionists

Samantha

Receptionist

Samantha began work at Sequoyah Animal Hospital in December 2021. Previously a stay at home mom, she was looking to get back into the workforce and was excited for the opportunity Sequoyah had to offer for her to give back to the community she lives in. A quick learner, she makes delegating tasks and responsibilities to seamless.

When not at work, most of her time is occupied by her toddler and spending time with her family! She has one dog, Luna, and 2 cats, Forrest and Violet, that she adores.

Alicia

Receptionist

Alicia got her start in the pet care profession as a receptionist and bather at our sister facility, Sequoyah’s Muddy Buddies Dog Wash. She then transferred to our clinic as a receptionist in June 2014.

“I like working at Sequoyah because everyone works as a team,” she says. “It is a team I want to be on and I am proud to be on it. We all pull together to care for each patient and take care of all the daily needs of the clinic efficiently.”

Alicia takes pride in being able to help each client and patient in whatever ways she can. She brings her friendliness and flexibility to the workplace and is responsible for providing top-notch customer service, maintaining our appointment schedule, and checking our patients in and out.

Alicia is a pet parent to a two-year-old Boston Terrier mix named Rigby and a one-year-old cat named Boogie. She also has a toddler son, Carson, who keeps her busy while not in the office.

“Most of my free time is spent being a mother,” she says. “We enjoy being outside and spending time with family and friends.”

Alicia also enjoys drawing, doing hair and makeup for family members when they need her services, and writing to her sister who is in the Navy.

Veterinary Assistants

Sydney

Veterinary Assistant

Sydney joined the Sequoyah Animal Hospital team in the spring of 2026, bringing with her a strong academic background and a genuine passion for animal care. She holds a bachelor’s degree in anthropology with an emphasis on biology, giving her a unique perspective on both animal behavior and overall wellness.

At home, Sydney cares for a diverse group of pets, including her American Bulldog, Lucky, a crested gecko named Maggie, and a red-tailed boa constrictor named Thrasher. Her experience with a variety of species reflects her comfort and confidence working with animals of all kinds.

Outside of work, Sydney enjoys spending time gardening, hiking, baking, reading, and crocheting. Her well-rounded interests and thoughtful nature make her a compassionate and attentive part of the team, dedicated to providing excellent care for every patient she meets.

Alyssa

Veterinary Technician

Alyssa joined our team in June 2024 after completing a clinical surgery rotation with our practice. In May, she received her associate’s degree in veterinary technology from Chattanooga State Community College. She plans to take the VTNE in August to become a licensed Vet Tech. Some of her job responsibilities include intubating patients and prepping for surgery, monitoring surgeries and patient recovery, sterilizing equipment, and comforting owners. One of her favorite things about Sequoyah Animal Hospital is how the staff and doctors treat their patients and their owners like they are a part of the family, and how they go above and beyond for their patients no matter what the circumstances are.

At home, Alyssa has two dogs, Spike and Ivy, two cats, Kitty and Cheese, and a horse named Bella. She is a member of the Upper Cumberland Walking Horse Association and helps her uncle breed Tennessee Walking Horses. In her free time, she likes to ride horses, crochet, hike, and garden. She is growing her own fruits and vegetables in her home garden now and recently started selling her crocheted items in a store. Alyssa spends most of her free time with her toddler, Nova.

Shea

Surgery & Veterinary Assistant

Shea has been a valued member of the Sequoyah Animal Hospital team since 2017, bringing dedication, warmth, and a passion for animal care to everything she does. As a skilled surgery and veterinary assistant, she plays an essential role in ensuring the health and comfort of every patient who comes through the doors.

Residing in Dunlap, Tennessee, Shea leads a vibrant life outside the clinic. She shares her home and heart with her loving husband, two children, two grandchildren, two dogs, and a cat. Her personal life is filled with joy, laughter, and a deep appreciation for the little moments—especially those spent with family at her favorite place on Earth: Disney.

Known for her bright spirit and infectious sense of humor, Shea is driven by a genuine love for helping others and creating a positive atmosphere wherever she goes. Over the past eight years, she has found her true calling in veterinary medicine, continually inspired by the opportunity to learn something new each day and to provide compassionate, quality care to animals in need.
Whether she’s assisting in surgery, comforting a nervous pet, or sharing a smile with a client, Shea’s commitment and kindness shine through in every interaction.

Carissa

Veterinary Assistant

Carissa joined the Sequoyah Animal Hospital team in August 2024, bringing her infectious enthusiasm and dedication to veterinary care. As a vital part of our front desk team, Carissa warmly greets clients, manages phone calls, schedules appointments, and jumps in to assist wherever needed. Her exceptional multitasking skills and proactive attitude make her an invaluable asset, always ready to lend a hand to colleagues and clients alike. Carissa is currently transitioning over to vet assistant.

Carissa’s passion for veterinary medicine shines through in her work. Having dreamed of a career in this field, she approaches each day with excitement and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of pets and their owners. Her love for animals extends to her own furry family, which includes three dogs– Nova, a spirited five-year-old Border Collie mix; Sully, a charming four-year-old Boston Terrier; and Finn, an adventurous five-year-old Husky mix— as well as a two-year-old cat named Wybie, who keeps everyone in line.

Outside the clinic, Carissa enjoys unwinding with a good book, expressing herself through journaling, and spending quality time training her dogs to master new tricks. Her creativity and dedication to animals make her a perfect fit for our team, and we’re thrilled to have her at Sequoyah Animal Hospital.

Bre

Assistant

Bre joined Sequoyah Animal Hospital team in the spring of 2023 as a veterinary receptionist. With no prior experience in veterinary medicine, she jumped in from day one like she had always been part of the crew. Her quick learning, high energy, and willingness to tackle anything made her an instant asset to the team.

Originally found answering phones and scheduling appointments, Bre quickly discovered a passion for hands-on patient care and often assisted our veterinary team wherever needed. Her dedication and drive led her to transition into a full-time Veterinary Assistant role, where she now helps in exam rooms, support treatments, and even works part-time on our farm truck.

Though she doesn’t currently have pets, Bre holds the memory of her three beloved dogs– Chevy, Soco, and Harley–close to her heart.  Outside of work, Bre stays busy as a proud Mom to her young son.  Together, they enjoy an active life filled with sports, swimming, fishing, cooking, and playground adventures.

Kayla

Assistant

Kayla is a proud East Tennessee native whose lifelong love for animals has shaped both her personal and professional journey. Raised among pets and farm animals, she developed a deep-rooted connection to animals at an early age– an experience that naturally led her to a fulfilling career in veterinary medicine.

As a veterinary assistant, Kayla brings compassion, skill, and dedication to every patient she cares for. Her goal is to help pets live healthy, happy lives while supporting their families with kindness and understanding. Her calm presence and strong work ethic make he an invaluable part of the Sequoyah Animal Hospital team.

When she’s not at the clinic, Kayla enjoys spending time with her family, exploring the outdoors on trail rides, or relaxing on the water. Whether at work or at home, she brings the same heartfelt commitment and positive energy to everything she does.

Bri

Assistant

Brianna joined the Sequoyah Animal Hospital team in August of 2024, after being in the animal care industry for over 7 years. Her passion for animals started early through volunteering at The Pet Placement Center, and she has continued to grow her experience across multiple areas of animal care. Bri began her career as a kennel technician and advanced to a K9 trainer’s apprentice at a local K9 Academy from 2020 to 2022.

Bri truly enjoys the work she does and is dedicated to providing compassionate care to every animal and clinic she meets. At home, Bri shares her life with 2 dogs and a cat, Ellie a 6-year -old rat terrier mix, Guillermo, a 1.5-year-old lab mix, and Luna a 6- year -old tabby cat who definitely runs the household. In her free time, Bri enjoys spending time with her husband, Austin, exploring estate sales and antiquing, cooking, hiking, and making memories with her animals, friends, and family.

Kennel Techs

Ava

Kennel Attendant
In May 2023, Ava joined our team as a kennel attendant. Her favorite part of her job is taking the dogs on walks and getting to know them better, making their stay feel at home. Ava is currently enrolled in high school and spends her afternoons at the clinic. She loves learning new things and is excited to help when needed.

Ava has 4 dogs, Waffles, Millie, Maggie, and Luna, and 1 cat named Izzy. She loves to spend her free time walking her dogs, reading, swimming, and spending time with family and friends.

Kayla

Kennel Attendant

In September 2024, Kayla joined our team as a kennel attendant. Prior to joining our team, she was an animal care assistant at her high school, allowing her to help care for a variety of animals. She was eager to join our team to allow her to continue to gain experience, and she has been an excellent addition. As a kennel attendant, her primary duties include caring for boarding patients, ensuring their happiness while away from home, and maintaining the cleanliness of the indoor and outdoor facilities.

Outside of work, Kayla enjoys baking, gardening, and raising chickens. At home, she has 3 dogs of her own – 2 cocker spaniels and a chihuahua, and 30 chickens!

Taylar

Kennel Attendant
Taylar joined Sequoyah Animal Hospital as a kennel attendant in June 2018. At the clinic, she is most often found taking care of the boarding animals and maintaining the cleanliness of the indoor kennels and outdoor runs. She enjoys getting to know all of our boarding friends and learning about their different personalities.

When not at work, she is a busy mom to her human and furry children! At home, she has 2 dogs, Luna and Lucky, and 3 cats: Tiny, Blue, and Queenie.

Kristy

Kennel Attendant

Kristy became part of the Sequoyah Animal Hospital family in January 2025, as a kennel attendant. From the very beginning, working with animals has always felt like home to her.

At home, Kristy is outnumbered by her four furry companions—three cats and one dog—who are very much in charge and just a little jealous of how much time she spends caring for other animals. Even so, she wouldn’t trade her job for anything. For Kristy, being part of the Sequoyah team is more than just work—it’s the most fulfilling adventure she could ask for.

Ava Mc

Kennel Assistant

Ava joined the Sequoyah Animal Hospital team in August of 2025. Prior to working with us, Ava worked at a doggy daycare and boarding facility, as well as at McKameys Animal Shelter. Her background has given her valuable hands-on experience caring for animals of all personalities and needs.

At home, Ava is just as devoted to animals as she is at work. She has 2 Australian Shepherds and 3 cats who keep her busy and entertained. When she’s not at the hospital, she enjoys taking her dogs on long walks and bringing them along on fun outings. She also enjoys doing nails and occasionally helping her boyfriend with his horses.

Ava says she loves working at Sequoyah Animal Hospital because she gets to spend time with animals every day and truly enjoys what she does. Her patience, understanding nature, and genuine love for animal care make her a wonderful teammate and an important part of our hospital family. She especially enjoys meeting new animals and helping ensure they feel safe and cared for during their stay.

Chewie

Kennel Assistant

Chewie joined the Sequoyah Animal Hospital team in August of 2025 as a full-time kennel technician, where he brings his passion for animal care to every shift. Chewie previously worked at McKamey Animal Shelter.

Chewie is responsible for walking dogs, feeding our furry guests, and maintaining clean, comfortable kennels to ensure the well-being of all animals in our care. What he loves most about the job is taking care of the dogs and cats, getting to know their individual personalities and unique temperaments, which makes every day rewarding and full of surprises.

Outside of work, Chewie is a true animal enthusiast. He shares his home with a lively 4-year-old female beagle/pit mix named Supertramo and even raises pet pigs. When he is not tending to animals, Chewie enjoys farming, gardening, and building intricate creations with Legos. He thrives in our laid-back, fun environment surrounded by wonderful coworkers, and we’re thrilled to have his positive energy on the team!