Meet Our Skilled Veterinarians

Dr. Cooney was born and raised in Alabama. He attended Auburn University (War Eagle!) where he received a Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and ultimately, Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 1991. He practiced for a short time in Hickory, NC, from 1991 to 1995.

Dr. Nichola Gaither joined the Animal Hospital of Statesville in 2005 and now serves as the Medical Director of the Statesville location. Her servant leadership approach pushes the team to stay on the cutting edge of medicine and patient care.

Dr. Ashly LaRoche joined the Animal Hospital of Statesville team in 2007. Since then, she has continued to stay at the forefront of veterinary medicine and pushes the Animal Hospital team to offer the best possible care for patients and clients.

Dr. Kristin Christy joined the Animal Hospital team in 2015 because of the Animal Hospital's quality of care, as illustrated by its AAHA accreditation, the constant innovations, and the desire to do new and better things - something which is still true over a decade later.

Dr. Brett Pendergrass joined the Animal Hospital of Statesville team in 2009. In addition to providing quality care, he has expanded the advanced soft tissue and surgical procedures offered at Animal Hospital of Statesville.

Dr. Julia Zuercher joined the Animal Hospital team in 2021 at Statesville. She will move to the South Main location upon its opening in the fall of 2025. She is excited to continue to provide exceptional client and patient care at this sister location.

Dr. Amber Talbot joined the Animal Hospital team in 2024 after completing a three-week externship here during her last year of vet school. She fell in love with the practice's culture, values and staff and has been a source of positivity for clients and patients since joining. Dr.

Dr. Samantha Lannon joined the Animal Hospital of Statesville team in 2025 after spending six weeks here during her last year of veterinary school.