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, camping and spending time with family and friends are among her many hobbies. She shares her home with her dogs, Ponch and Allie, her cat, Lacey, and a turtle named Snappy.

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 not only fun but also rewarding in so many different ways. Outside of work, Tracy can be found spending time with her son, family and friends at Stockton Lake. She also enjoys her hobby of making jewelry. She shares her home with her black and white longhair cat, Phoebe, and a green and brown bearded dragon named Fred.

A receptionist at Cherokee Animal Clinic since 2007, Amy Elschlager appreciates working with the dedicated and knowledgeable veterinarians and staff. In her spare time, Amy is occupied with caring for her two furry kitties, Josie and Cass. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her fiancé, playing pool, and sailing.

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, her granddaughter, and her dogs in her spare time, and also likes reading, cooking and sports.

Jamie Kracht 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.