Hospital Staff - Office Staff

Practice manager Kerry Meredith has been a member of the Cherokee Animal Clinic staff since 1988. Helping pets and their owners on a daily basis is a rewarding experience that Kerry highly cherishes. A devoted wife and mother of an adult son, Kerry loves to read, cook and bake and enjoys shooting pool and going to KU basketball games in her spare time. She shares her home with a cat named Indi and a Doberman named Ramses.

Hilary VanderVelde is the office manager at Cherokee Animal Clinic. The hospital is her home away from home and she likes being part of a team that's focused on educating clients and providing the best veterinary care for pets. Sailing, kayaking, reading, watching movies and spending time with family and friends are among her many hobbies. She shares her home with a dog named Ponch and three cats, Ike, Cagney and Lacey.

Tracy Sila has been a member of the Cherokee Animal Clinic staff since the age of 14. She started out as a kennel assistant in 1990 and is now a receptionist. Working at the hospital is very rewarding for her and she loves working with pets. Outside of work, Tracy can be found spending time with her son, making jewelry and spending time with family and friends. She shares her home with two cats, Tigger and Phoebe.

A receptionist at Cherokee Animal Clinic since 2007, Amy Elschlager appreciates working with the dedicated and knowledgable veterinarians and staff. In her spare time, Amy is a pet sitter. She also previously volunteered with the Humane Society. Outside of work, she enjoys playing pool, watching movies, and spending time with her family, friends and her two cats, Josie and Cassie.

Receptionist Joan Altieri joined the Cherokee Animal Clinic staff in 2007. She has always wanted to work at a veterinary clinic and loves working with the caring staff each day. A member of the Humane Society of the United States and the ASPCA, Joan shares her home with two dogs, Sarah and Tarby. She enjoys hanging out with her three sons and her dogs in her spare time, and also likes reading, cooking and camping.

Jamie Kracth joined the Cherokee Animal Clinic staff as a receptionist in 2008. She grew up on a farm and loves working with animals. Jamie is proud to be part of the caring and compassionate staff. When not at work, she enjoys fishing at the lake and painting at home. She especially likes going for walks in the park with her Yorkie, Lucky. Jamie is currently taking courses through Penn Foster to become a certified veterinary assistant.