MEET OUR TEAM

Practice Manager

Vanessa Hegi

Vanessa has been with Animal Care Clinic since 2020 and keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes. She manages the team and oversees daily operations, all while maintaining a strong focus on exceptional patient care. At home, Vanessa has a full house with one dog, two cats, and three energetic boys—there’s never a dull moment!

Veterinary Technician Lead

Emily Jarrett

Emily has been at Animal Care Clinic since 2019 and serves as our Head Veterinary Technician. She keeps the back of the clinic running smoothly, and brings hands-on expertise in all areas of veterinary care.Emily is also a friendly, reassuring presence for both pets and their owners. At home, she enjoys spending time with her two cats and her social dachshund, who’s never met a stranger.

Receptionist

Jaimie Hamsmith

Jaimie joined the team in September 2025. She’s passionate about animals of all kinds and loves connecting with both pets and their people. Outside the clinic, Jaimie fosters rescue horses and shares her love for animals with her daughter, teaching her about horse training and caring for their lively group of farm animals.

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Receptionist / Technician

Kristin Lawson

Kristin joined Animal Care Clinic in January 2025 as and truly does it all—splitting her time between reception and technician duties. She loves getting to know our patients and clients, both new faces and long-time visitors. At home, Kristin enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Max and Chloe, and can often be found cooking, baking, or playing with her pups outdoors.

Technician

Merari Tolentino

Merari is a part-time technician at Animal Care Clinic. She’s earning her degree in Animal Science at Texas Tech with plans for veterinary school. Merari enjoys assisting in surgeries and learning new skills every day. When not at the clinic, you’ll find her at the dog park with her two fur babies, reading a good book, working out, or enjoying an early start to her day! 

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Receptionist

Amy Rider

Amy joined the team in July of 2025. She graduated from Lubbock Christian University with a degree in Kinesiology. Amy is new to veterinary medicine but has years of experience in human medicine, and is loving the opportunity to learn new skills and love on animals. When she is not at the clinic, she enjoys golfing, watching her favorite sports teams and spending time with her wife, Kristin, son, John and their 3 dogs; Lego, Puzzle, and Lincoln Logs.