Montana has been dedicated to veterinary medicine since 2014 and is passionate about providing low-stress experiences that help pets feel safe and comfortable. Her adaptability and calm confidence make her a natural fit for emergency medicine. She is deeply committed to patient care and continually pursues advanced certifications and continuing education to ensure she is providing the highest standard of medical support.  When she’s not at the clinic, you can find her bird watching or working on a crochet project. At home, she stays busy caring for her dogs, cats, and a lively flock of chickens. Montana is proud to be part of a team that delivers expert, compassionate emergency care when pets need it most.

Tanner brings over a decade of experience in veterinary medicine to the Happy Tails team, along with additional hands-on experience working with exotic species in a zoological setting. Her extensive background has shaped her into a confident and detail-oriented professional who thrives in the fast-paced environment of emergency medicine. Wildlife medicine is one of Tanner’s greatest passions. She is a proud member of Squirrel Friend Rescue and has experience working with native wildlife species, especially opossums, which hold a special place in her heart. At home, Tanner shares her life with a colorful crew of fur children. With over a decade of hands-on experience, Tanner is a steady and knowledgeable presence in emergency care.

Cai brings several years of experience in both general practice and emergency veterinary medicine to the Happy Tails team. Her well-rounded clinical background allows her to move confidently between routine care and high-acuity cases, always with a steady and thoughtful approach. Wildlife medicine is one of Cai’s greatest passions. She is actively working toward becoming a licensed wildlife rehabilitator and dedicates significant time to continuing education in both veterinary medicine and wildlife-specific care. Her commitment to lifelong learning ensures she stays current, capable, and deeply informed in every patient interaction. Outside of the hospital, Cai enjoys music, photography, and traveling, creative outlets that reflect her observant nature and appreciation for the world around her. Cai is proud to serve both companion animals and wildlife patients with compassion, curiosity, and dedication. 

Melissa has a wide range of interests within veterinary medicine, including patient care, anesthesia, neonatology, dentistry, radiology, and cesarean sections. Her well-rounded clinical knowledge and dedication to excellence make her a trusted presence in emergency medicine. An avid learner and natural educator, Melissa serves as a trainer at Happy Tails, working one-on-one with team members to build strong foundational emergency medical skills. She is a respected presence on the treatment floor, bringing confidence and steady guidance no matter which role she fills that day. Those she teaches are better for her mentorship and support. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys insect photography and has even kept praying mantises and jumping spiders as pets. She also spends time rescuing wildlife and cherishing time with her son. Melissa’s knowledge and commitment to growth make her an invaluable part of the Happy Tails team.

Taay has a strong interest in emergency medicine, particularly shock cases and their clinical presentation. She takes pride in providing attentive care to compromised and critically ill patients, bringing focus and determination to every shift. She graduated from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University (NCA&T) with a degree in Animal Science, where she was an active member of the veterinary club. Taay was also recognized for her academic excellence with the Biology 4.0 GPA Award. Outside of work, Taay enjoys doing nails and lashes and spending time with her pets. She occasionally fosters kittens and values quality time with her family. Taay’s dedication, academic achievement, and passion for emergency care make her a valuable part of the Happy Tails team.

Shannon is a Registered Veterinary Technician with a strong commitment to clinical excellence and patient-centered care. She earned her Associate’s degree in Veterinary Medical Technology from Central Carolina Community College and has a particular interest in Fear Free and low-stress handling techniques, abscess management, and surgical support. As an avid cat lover, Shannon is especially passionate about creating calm, positive experiences for her feline patients while supporting their families through every stage of care. She has also traveled internationally to volunteer in Namibia, South Africa, reflecting her dedication to animal care beyond the clinic. With a foundation in technical expertise and low-stress handling, Shannon ensures patients receive both skilled and considerate care.

Olivia is passionate about emergency veterinary medicine and brings attentiveness and clinical focus to every role she serves at Happy Tails. She carefully monitors hospitalized patients, understanding that early recognition of subtle changes can significantly impact outcomes. She takes pride in being a steady lifeline for clients during stressful emergencies, advocating for both pets and their families while emphasizing education to help prevent future ER visits. Olivia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Laboratory Animal Science with a minor in Animal Science from North Carolina A&T State University. Outside of work, she shares her home with horses and dogs and is the owner of Canine Comfort. Olivia’s vigilance, compassion, and clinical dedication make her an invaluable part of the Happy Tails team.

Eric brings a strong scientific foundation and a passion for patient care to the Happy Tails team. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, he combines academic knowledge with hands-on veterinary expertise. Eric has a special place in his heart for poodle patients, especially the tiny ones. At home, he shares his life with a toy poodle named Rebecca, a Pomeranian named Grace, and a cat named Dante. Before entering veterinary medicine, Eric was a high school science educator. His background in teaching shines through in his role as a trainer at Happy Tails, where he mentors team members and helps strengthen clinical skills across the hospital. He is particularly skilled in laboratory procedures and diagnostics, serving as a trusted expert in lab operations and patient testing. Eric is proud to support both patients and teammates, combining precision, education, and compassion in everything he does.

Kelsey brings clinical precision and steady confidence to every shift she works.

Danielle thrives in emergency veterinary medicine and has a deep passion for every aspect of it. Her particular interests include critical care, surgery, and pharmacology/pharmacokinetics areas, where precision, knowledge, and quick decision-making matter most. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Guilford College, with an academic interest in Forensic Science, reflecting her analytical mindset and love of complex problem-solving. Danielle brings confidence and decisiveness to her team during high-pressure cases. Outside of work, she enjoys kayaking, gardening, reading, and watching crime documentaries. She shares her home with several beloved pets. Danielle is proud to combine intensity and expertise in every patient interaction.

Kirsten is an avid learner with a long-standing passion for veterinary medicine. She has earned her CAN license, become CPR certified, and completed a degree in Criminal Justice. Prior to transitioning into veterinary medicine, she worked as a forensic technician with WSPD, where she developed strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and professionalism under pressure. Continuing to expand her clinical credentials, Kirsten is now pursuing her Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) designation. Known for her dedication to growth and excellence, Kirsten brings curiosity and commitment to the Happy Tails team. She has a strong interest in avian medicine and shares her home with a variety of pets, her husband, and their two children. Outside of work and school, Kirsten enjoys the occasional road trip to Raleigh or Charlotte in search of top-notch sushi. Kirsten is proud to combine lifelong learning, compassion, and dedication in her care for every patient.

Monica is a Registered Veterinary Technician who deeply values one-on-one patient care in the fast-paced environment of emergency medicine. Her clinical precision, calm confidence, and dedication to individualized treatment make her a trusted team member on the treatment floor. Monica earned her Associate’s degree in Applied Science from Stautzenberger College. In addition to her strong clinical expertise, she plays a vital role in team development, serving as a trainer and contributing significantly to the creation of the hospital’s training manuals, helping ensure consistency, excellence, and high medical standards across the team. Outside of work, Monica enjoys running, watching movies, reading, and spending time with her husband and sons. She also loves relaxing with her dog. Monica is proud to combine technical skill and compassionate care in everything she does.

Lena is passionate about client education, anesthesia, and veterinary dentistry. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and Nutrition from West Virginia University and is continuing her education at UNC Greensboro as she works toward becoming a veterinarian. She has also been recognized with a Biotechnology Award for her research work. Lena values strong communication with clients and is dedicated to providing thorough, compassionate care to every patient. She is a member of the Thespian Society, National Honor Society, and ASPCA. Outside of work, Lena enjoys painting birdhouses, hiking with her dogs, and watching NHL and NFL games, especially cheering on the Baltimore Ravens. She has traveled internationally and loves experiencing new places. Lena is proud to bring curiosity, dedication, and compassionate care to every patient she touches. 

Emily has a strong interest in veterinary parasitology and enjoys identifying the many internal and external parasites that patients can harbor. Her attention to detail and curiosity make her a valuable asset in diagnostics and patient care. She is deeply passionate about client education and believes that clear communication between pet owners and veterinary staff helps reduce stress, improve understanding of aftercare needs, and strengthen the human-animal bond. Outside of work, Emily enjoys life on her farm, spending time outdoors, boating, hiking, and baking. She shares her home with a variety of beloved companions and farm animals. Emily is proud to combine science, education, and compassion in every case.

Kalyn believes in providing every patient with TLC, even in the most challenging cases, and prioritizes low-stress handling techniques in her approach to care. Her calm, compassionate presence makes her a valued member of the Happy Tails team. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Pre-Vet Biology and Business Management from Maryville College (TN) and an Associate’s degree in Animal Behavior from Alamance CC. Kalyn is currently pursuing her Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) credential through Purdue University and plans to become licensed in NC. A former professional softball player who spent three years traveling the U.S., Kalyn now enjoys hiking with her dogs, fostering animals, and relaxing with a good book. Kalyn is proud to combine compassion and clinical skill as she supports her team in delivering exceptional patient care.

A true “tech at heart,” Brandi is known for her positivity and supportive nature. She enjoys home improvement projects, gardening, being outdoors, and spending time near the water.
Brandi is proud to be part of the Happy Tails team and grateful to do the work she loves every day.  

Sarah is passionate about emergency veterinary medicine and brings intelligence, drive, and curiosity to every shift at Happy Tails. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, working toward her goal of becoming a veterinarian. Sarah thrives in the fast-paced ER environment and is dedicated to continually expanding her knowledge and clinical skills. She is especially passionate about animal welfare and actively encourages others to foster cats from local shelters, helping them give them a second chance at loving homes. She is proud to be growing her career in emergency medicine while serving the pets and families of her community.

Rayna is currently studying Animal Science at North Carolina A&T State University, where she is working toward her goal of becoming an exotic veterinarian. She is passionate about learning and embraces every opportunity to expand her knowledge in animal care. Rayna loves being part of the veterinary environment, where she is constantly growing and gaining hands-on experience. She truly enjoys working alongside her team and caring for the animals she encounters each day. Rayna is excited to continue building her future in veterinary medicine while supporting patients and families at Happy Tails.

Jessica is a passionate team member with over nine years of experience in veterinary medicine. Her strong educational foundation and clinical expertise make her a trusted and knowledgeable member of the Happy Tails team. She brings intelligence, precision, and confidence to every case, supporting both patients and veterinarians in the fast-paced environment of emergency medicine. Jessica is deeply committed to maintaining high medical standards and delivering exceptional patient care. Jessica is proud to serve pets and families when they need expert emergency support most.

Allison brings many years of veterinary medical experience to the Happy Tails team. She especially enjoys being hands-on with patients, providing attentive and compassionate care in the fast-paced environment of emergency medicine. Dedicated to continued growth, Allison regularly pursues continuing education in various areas of veterinary medicine to strengthen her clinical skills and stay current in patient care. She is committed to both professional development and delivering high-quality support to the medical team. Outside of work, Allison values quality time with her family and has a true passion for cooking. Allison is proud to be part of a team that delivers skilled, compassionate emergency care when it matters most.