OUR TEAM
Dr. Katie
Owner & Veterinarian
Katelyn Stender is a graduate of the University of Florida, for both her undergraduate studies, and her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. After graduating, she worked in a traditional vet clinic while also working with a group of veterinarians providing in-home euthanasia. It quickly became clear what her calling was, and she started exclusively practicing in-home end of life care. For years she has proudly served Jacksonville and the surrounding community, helping thousands of families, learning and growing. After the birth of her second son, Dr. Katie knew it was time to start her own practice.
Dr. Katie loves spending time with her family. Her favorite day would be a day doing anything with her husband and two sons. She has two senior cats, and understands the difficulties of owning senior pets. She loves doing house projects, hiking adventures in the mountains, trying new restaurants, sailing, and watching a good TV show after a long day.
Dr. Katie is so grateful to be able to continue the work she loves, sharing what she believes to be the most sacred space, as a family parts with their pet, in the comfort of their home. It is with great care that she performs this service for our pets and couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
Melissa Sheppard is a graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. Following graduation, she completed an internship at Carolina Equine Hospital, and has since been engaged in large animal general practice at Sullivan Equine Veterinary Service in North Carolina. She and her family have recently relocated back to the north Florida area, and are looking forward to making a difference in the community here.
During her time in general practice, Dr. Sheppard attended to many end-of-life cases and helped community members through difficult decisions on a regular basis. She has found this aspect of veterinary medicine to be some of the most rewarding work. Our animals give us so much, and the ability to assist in providing a
dignified and compassionate “goodbye” is the least we can offer in return. Dr. Sheppard brings with her a wealth of experience on the large and farm animal side of end-of-life care, and is also happy to provide services for clients with horses, donkeys, mules, small ruminants and chickens as needed.
When she is not working, Dr. Sheppard enjoys spending time with family, visiting the
mountains and spending time outdoors, and enjoying the company of her 3 rescue dogs, cat and chickens.
Dr. Melissa
Veterinarian
Dr. Sarah
Veterinarian
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Melissa Sheppard is a graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. Following graduation, she completed an internship at Carolina Equine Hospital, and has since been engaged in large animal general practice at Sullivan Equine Veterinary Service in North Carolina. She and her family have recently relocated back to the north Florida area, and are looking forward to making a difference in the community here.
During her time in general practice, Dr. Sheppard attended to many end-of-life cases and helped community members through difficult decisions on a regular basis. She has found this aspect of veterinary medicine to be some of the most rewarding work. Our animals give us so much, and the ability to assist in providing a
dignified and compassionate “goodbye” is the least we can offer in return. Dr. Sheppard brings with her a wealth of experience on the large and farm animal side of end-of-life care, and is also happy to provide services for clients with horses, donkeys, mules, small ruminants and chickens as needed.
When she is not working, Dr. Sheppard enjoys spending time with family, visiting the
mountains and spending time outdoors, and enjoying the company of her 3 rescue dogs, cat and chickens.
Gabrielle Harsey is a graduate of the Florida State College at Jacksonville. Over the last decade of her professional experience, she gained an expansive knowledge in customer service, management, and client communications.
Gabrielle is a Florida native. Growing up, she always had a deep connection to animals. Her childhood home's backyard became a burial place for departed strays and wildlife, as she found purpose in giving them a dignified eternal rest.
When Gabrielle met Dr. Katie and learned about the service she provides, it felt like what she could only describe as "an awakening of that calling to be a guide through the animal end of life care process". She finds it to be a true honor supporting local families during such a difficult and sacred time.
In her personal time, Gabrielle enjoys traveling, outdoor activities, going to concerts, creative projects, and spending quality time with friends, family, and her two cats - Franklin and Milson.
Gaby
Practice Manager
