Meet Our Veterinary Team

Dr. Anderson is a native of Pike County, Kentucky. He graduated from EKU, where he earned science degrees in Chemistry & Agriculture. Additionally, he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Auburn University in 2010. After veterinary school, he remained a resident of Alabama and practiced as an associate veterinarian on both large & small animals. He and his wife decided to move to Kentucky in 2011. Since relocating, he has practiced as a small animal veterinarian and was proud to open Animal Wellness Center in 2014. He enjoys camping, hiking, gardening, and reading. Dr. Anderson and his wife keep a cat named Napoleon, whom they both love.

Dr. VanHoose holds a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine, class of 2020, and completed her bachelor’s degree at Morehead State University in 2016. She shares her home with seven pets: three dogs (Carson, a 9-year-old German Shepherd; Puddle, a 3-year-old Beagle mix; and Minnie, a 3-year-old Miniature Pinscher/Chihuahua mix), three cats (Ellie, a 10-year-old gray tabby; Poppy, a 6-year-old Calico; and Stevie, a 1-year-old black and white cat), and two leopard geckos (Nami and Sunny). Her passion is small animal, as well as reptile and pocket pet medicine.

Lona assisted in the genesis and opening of Animal Wellness Center in 2014. Assists Dr. Anderson with the clinic functions and procurement outside of business hours.

Samantha joined the Animal Wellness Center team in February 2017 as a veterinary assistant and transitioned to Patient Care Manager in June 2025. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the University of Kentucky and a Juris Doctor from Florida Coastal School of Law. Samantha’s professional interests include client education, dentistry, and ensuring compassionate, high-quality care to all patients AWC is privileged to serve. She is a proud fur mom to two dogs, Feyre (an Irish Wolfhound) and Ginsberg (a Goldendoodle), and six cats: Thulhu, Eggo, Viago, Harper, Ginny, and Tuna. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with her two children.

Sam has been a member of Animal Wellness Center since April 2019. She is passionate about helping pets live happy, healthy lives and enjoys educating clients on proper care for their beloved fur babies. Outside of the clinic, Sam has a love for all things green- she cares for over 50 houseplants. She also enjoys fishing, antiquing, quilting, and relaxing at home with her five furry companions: Buster, Sally, Wren, Opie, and Minerva.

Kayla joined the Animal Wellness Center team in February 2024. Although she is a newer member of the team, she has almost 5 years of experience in veterinary medicine and has loved every minute! Kayla is currently studying to get her Veterinary Technician license so she can better serve the pets of our community. She is a Virginia native but has really enjoyed getting to know the Pikeville area and hopes to relocate in the future. In her free time, Kayla enjoys reading, playing video games with her husband, and cuddling with her two cats, Inosuke and Crane, and her soul dog, Sampson. Veterinary Medicine is very much a passion for her, and she is grateful for the experiences of each day.

Bailey joined the Animal Wellness Center team in April of 2023. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and a certificate in Applied Data Science. Bailey has always been an animal lover, but she never planned to go into veterinary medicine. Now, she loves learning about why we do what we do and how it helps ensure the health of the patients in our care! Bailey is the mom to four fur babies, Tiger, Tempe, Rogue, and Franny!

Megan joined the team in December 2024. She has her Associate’s degree in Science. She is a proud fur mom to 3 cats ( Shadow, Simba, and Socks) and two dogs (Diesel and MJ). She enjoys being outside, hiking, riding four-wheelers, and hanging out with her son.