Meet Our Team!
Meet the veterinarians and team at Compassionate Care Animal Hospital! We’re pleased to provide exceptional vet care for your pets!
Get to Know Our Team!
We are solely dedicated to your pet’s care! We look forward to getting to know you, and we hope you’ll take the time to scroll down and get to know us.
Veterinarians
Dr. Julie Miles
Medical Director
Dr. Miles grew up in Pickerington. She graduated from Pickerington High School in 1991 and went on to pursue a degree in Psychology at Ohio University, which she received in 1996. She then obtained her Masters in Social Work at Ohio State in 1998 and worked as a social worker at The Ohio State University Medical Center and Grant Medical Center for several years. However, Dr. Miles never lost sight of her childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian.
She decided to make a career change and graduated from Ohio State’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 2006. It was also during her time in veterinary school that she met her husband, Dale, who works with small two-legged creatures at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Her professional interests include dentistry, feline medicine, and client communications. She understands the importance of helping clients understand the diagnosis and treatment options for their pets while taking into account their family’s circumstances. As a former social worker, Dr. Miles is sensitive to the emotional needs of her clients and their pets, and she is passionate about providing compassionate care to both.
Dr. Miles resides in Granville with her husband and two sons. She is a proud owner of a small zoo at home, which includes three dogs, two cats, multiple snakes, two tortoises, two turtles, numerous fish tanks, and many tarantulas (which belong to her husband, and she doesn’t really want to know how many there are).
Dr. Cassie Horvath
Veterinarian
Dr. Cassie is a highly experienced veterinarian who graduated from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2014. She has been providing exceptional small animal medicine in the Columbus area since then and has worked in the field for over 20 years. Dr. Cassie takes great pride in ensuring that her patients feel comfortable during their visits, and as a Fear Free-Elite Certified vet, she has demonstrated her commitment to this cause. Dr. Cassie enjoys behavioral medicine, dentistry, and internal medicine. She takes great pleasure in getting to know her patients and their families, and she believes providing individualized care is essential to ensuring the best possible outcomes for her patients. Dr. Cassie is a firm believer in the human-animal bond and is passionate about supporting this unique and special relationship through her work as a veterinarian.
Dr. Michelle Garcia-Marrero
Veterinarian
Dr. Michelle is originally from Puerto Rico; she is bilingual and fluent in both Spanish and English. After completing her studies at Ross University, she completed a year of clinics at Iowa State before relocating to Ohio. With a passion for animal training and behavior, as well as integrative medicine, she has extensive experience in primary care, emergency, surgery, and rehabilitation. She is certified in low-stress handling and is committed to making every visit to the vet a positive experience for pets and their owners. In addition to her traditional training, she has also completed courses in integrative medicine and acupuncture, which allows her to offer a range of treatment options that may not be available through modern medicine. When she isn’t working, Dr. Michelle enjoys cooking, exploring nature, traveling, practicing photography, and spending time with her beloved dogs.
Dr. Robert Guinan
Veterinarian
Dr. Guinian is a highly qualified veterinarian who joined Compassionate Care in 2020. He graduated from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1984 and began practicing in Beckley, West Virginia. He joined a practice in Lancaster, Ohio, two years later, where he worked for many years. Dr. Guinan has a wealth of experience, and his expertise and dedication to his work have earned him an excellent reputation in the community. He is passionate about providing high-quality patient care and has a special interest in internal medicine and surgery. Outside of work, Dr. Guinan enjoys spending time with his family. He and his wife, Debbie, have three children and four grandchildren. They also share their home with two dogs who are a part of their family.
Veterinary Assistants
Brittany Kern
Veterinary Assistant
Brittany is a valued member of the CCAH team, joining as a veterinary assistant in 2019. Her passion for animals started with obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Animal Behavior in 2013. Afterward, she worked at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium as an animal keeper, trainer, and performer in the Animals on Safari/Surfin Safari Show. She is currently working towards earning a Veterinary Technology degree to become a licensed vet tech. When she’s not working or studying, Brittany spends most of her free time caring for her own fur babies. Her animal family includes dogs, cats, ferrets, bunnies and goats. She dreams of one day having her own little farm filled with animals!
Grace Hardy
Veterinary Assistant
Grace joined Compassionate Care in 2022 as a Veterinary Assistant. Before coming to CCAH, she worked at a boarding and training facility where she learned basic dog handling and behavioral skills. Grace has always had a passion for animals and wants to be a voice for them when they need it most. Joining the team at CCAH was the perfect first step in her veterinary medicine career. One of Grace’s favorite parts of her job is being a part of behavioral appointments and watching patients gain confidence while overcoming their fears. When she’s not working, Grace enjoys spending time outdoors with her friends, family, and dog.
Kaelyn Labelle
Veterinary Assistant
Kaelyn is a Veterinary Assistant, currently working towards a technician degree to further her career in animal healthcare. She is passionate about helping animals and their owners in their time of need and finds great satisfaction in being able to make a positive difference in their lives. In addition to her academic pursuits, Kaelyn is also an active volunteer in her community. She volunteers to help individuals with disabilities and cerebral palsy, and she also dedicates her time to a non-profit organization for veterans. She is committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those around her, both human and animal. When she’s not studying or volunteering, Kaelyn enjoys spending time outdoors. She loves kayaking and taking her two dogs to the park.
Anna Kitchen
Veterinary Assistant
Anna is a Veterinary Assistant, currently working towards a technician degree to further her career in animal healthcare. Growing up in Lancaster, Ohio, she discovered her love for animals when she started working at a kennel. Anna is particularly drawn to the medical side of veterinary care and enjoys educating clients on the importance of preventive care for their pets. She believes that proactive measures can significantly improve the overall health and well-being of animals. At home, Anna has a lovable canine named Copper, who is a perfect example of a coonhound. Copper not only brings immense joy to her life but also provides endless entertainment. Anna loves spending time outdoors. From fishing to hiking, she embraces any opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the serenity it offers.
Jerrika Duvall
Veterinary Assistant
Jerrika joined our team at CCAH in March of 2024 as a Veterinary Assistant. Jerrika’s passion for animals was nurtured while growing up on a farm surrounded by horses and a goat named George. Jerrika married her best friend in 2016 and relocated to Oklahoma. There, she had the opportunity to work alongside a talented veterinarian/chiropractor who became her mentor and taught her invaluable skills and knowledge in the field. After three years in Oklahoma, Jerrika and her husband returned to Ohio, where she accepted a position in emergency veterinary medicine. While she enjoyed the fast-paced emergency care environment, she wanted to build more consistent relationships with clients and patients. Outside work, Jerrika finds joy in spending quality time with her husband as they work together on their farm. She cherishes moments with her three dogs—Pip, Stetson, and Copper—and their two goats, Simba and Timon. Additionally, Jerrika loves trail riding her horses, Dove and Apache. Jerrika’s dedication, experience, and genuine love for animals make her an invaluable member of our team at CCAH. Her commitment to providing exceptional care and building lasting relationships with clients and their furry companions sets her apart as a Veterinary Assistant who makes a difference.
Aryn Daniels
Veterinary Assistant/Receptionist
Aryn joined Compassionate Care in 2024 as a veterinary assistant/receptionist. With previous experience at a small animal hospital in South Carolina, she brings a strong foundation in dog and cat handling and behavioral skills. Aryn is currently enrolled in Penn Foster to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinary technician. Outside work, she enjoys spending time with her loved ones and her dog, Bernie. Aryn’s passion for animals and dedication to their well-being make her a valuable member of the Compassionate Care team.
Abby Jones
Bio coming soon!
Jailyn Huston
Veterinary Assistant
Bio coming soon!
Jessie Hodge
Bio coming soon!
Receptionists
Christel Montgomery
Receptionist
Christel is a seasoned customer service professional with over 20 years of experience. She started working in the veterinary field five years ago and has become a valuable member of the CCAH team. Christel is married with two children and shares her home with three dogs and two cats. Christel’s passion for serving others is evident in her work, and she strives to provide the best possible customer service to every client she interacts with.
Robin Harding
Receptionist
Robin is a friendly and helpful receptionist. She enjoys being the first point of contact for clients. Robin was a stay-at-home mom for many years before making the decision to begin working in the veterinary field. Her experience as a mom has also made her a compassionate and nurturing team member. Robin loves sneaking treats to all the animals that come in, making their visit a little more enjoyable. When she is not at work, Robin is a devoted fur mom to her long-haired dachshund, Millie. She loves spending time with her husband and going on road trips. She also enjoys watching TV and movies, and on sunny days, she can be found outside reading.
Adrienne Gonzalez
Receptionist
Bio coming soon!
Managers
Dawn Browning
Inventory Manager
Dawn holds a special place in the heart of CCAH as she was the very first employee when the hospital opened its doors in 2012. She began her journey in veterinary medicine in 1996 and has been dedicated to the field ever since. Dawn has had a wealth of experiences throughout her career, including taking on the role of inventory manager in 2022. When she’s not working, Dawn enjoys spending time with her family. She is married with two children, a cat, a bearded dragon, and her beloved Frenchie, Stitch. Dawn also has a passion for plants, sunshine, Halloween, and horror movies!
Registered Veterinary Technicians
Jenifer Kemper
LVT Lead/Hospital Manager
Jen has been an important part of the CCAH family since 2018. Her passion for animals started early on. After graduating from Hocking College with a degree in Fish and Wildlife Management, she began working in the veterinary field in 1998. Jen’s love for animals led her back to school to earn her degree as a Veterinary Technician in 2010. Jen’s favorite part of her job is being able to make a difference in the lives of animals. She particularly enjoys monitoring patients
under anesthesia, assisting with surgeries as well as wildlife rehabilitation. When Jen is not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family, which includes her husband, daughter, dogs, cats, fish, and lots of chickens. She also loves spending time in nature, gardening, going to the beach, swimming, and being with her friends and family.
Megan Distelzweig
Registered Veterinary Technician
Megan is a dedicated Registered Veterinary Technician with over a decade of experience in various veterinary practices across multiple states. Her expertise spans a range of disciplines, from general practice to emergency medicine, and she is always seeking to expand her knowledge. Megan is passionate about sharing her expertise and believes there is always more to learn. When she’s not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and young son and exploring the outdoors through biking and hiking.
Nikki Chritensen
Registered Veterinary Technician
Nikki is a valued member of the CCAH team, bringing her passion for animal care and a wealth of experience to her role. She joined our team in January 2024 and has quickly become an integral part of our practice. Nikki’s journey in animal care began during her childhood, when she played a crucial role in caring for her family’s dog, who had suffered strokes. This early experience sparked her love for helping animals and set her on a path to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. She graduated from Alred State College in New York, where she gained practical experience working at a mixed practice. In 2010, Nikki relocated to Ohio and took a break from her professional career to focus on raising her four children as a full-time stay-at-home mom. One of her favorite parts of her job is witnessing positive outcomes for
complicated cases and seeing the happy faces of pet owners and their beloved animals. Outside of work, Nikki cherishes quality time with her family. They enjoy camping, gathering around bonfires, and engaging in outdoor activities. Nikki’s dedication, experience, and compassionate nature make her an invaluable asset to our team.
Jennifer Hipp
Registered Veterinary Technician
Jen is an experienced Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) who joined CCAH in late 2023. She graduated from Columbus State Community College in 2013 with a degree in Veterinary Technology. With a special interest in surgery, particularly orthopedic procedures, Jen brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. She has spent several years working in a specialist department, gaining invaluable experience. Jen found she missed being able to provide personalized care to the pets and pet parents in her community. Realizing her deep connection with her local community, she decided to refocus her career and join our practice, where she can make a direct impact on the well-being of pets and their families. Outside of work, Jen finds joy in spending quality time with her husband and two sons. Jen’s dedication to veterinary medicine and her compassionate approach make her an invaluable member of our team.
Skyler Heischman
Registered Veterinary Technician
Bio coming soon!