We’ve built a strong family.
Offering the best care for your pet(s) in WAVL
Meet our West Asheville Family Vet hospital staff.
Click each photo to learn more about our team.
Dr. Erica Kelly
Originally from New Jersey, Dr. Erica Kelly pursued her undergraduate degree in Animal Ecology and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) at Iowa State University. Since the age of 5, Dr. Kelly has dreamed of becoming a veterinarian, and she is thrilled to continue her career by joining the team at West Asheville Family Vet. With a passion for all aspects of small animal medicine and a keen interest in both internal and preventative medicine, Dr. Kelly hopes to be a trusted resource for all her clients’ questions and concerns. She is committed to diagnosing and treating complex medical conditions in pets to ensure they lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Kelly enjoys various outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and snowboarding. She also likes exploring breweries and spending quality time with friends and family playing board games and card games. At home, Dr. Kelly cherishes the companionship of her Border Collie, Luka, who has been her loyal companion throughout her schooling.
Dr. Lauren Komanski
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Lauren Komanski was raised in Winston-Salem, NC. She attended Columbia University in NYC for her undergraduate degree and continued on to NC State University for veterinary school. She is currently in the process of completing a certificate in veterinary rehab and pain management from the University of Tennessee. Dr. Komanski’s special interests include pain management, GI disease, and dentistry.
Dr. Komanski lives in Asheville with her husband, son, and two dogs. She enjoys cycling and was previously a professional cyclist and raced for the USA national team. Now in her free time, she is happiest exploring nature on a bike or foot with her family.
Jessica
Jessica has been dedicated to animal welfare since 2013, bringing over a decade of hands-on experience in management, animal sheltering, and both dog and cat behavior. Her background includes managing shelter departments, consulting on behavior cases, overseeing a horse barn, and running a dog daycare—giving her a well-rounded perspective on animal care.
Now as the Practice Manager of our veterinary hospital, Jessica combines her deep understanding of animal behavior with a passion for client service. She is committed to fostering a warm, welcoming environment while supporting a team that delivers the highest quality veterinary medicine. Jessica enjoys the constant (and occasionally chaotic) energy that comes with working with both animals and the humans who love them. After years in the field, she’s also earned the rare distinction of having literally herded cats—and lived to tell the tale.
Outside of work, Jessica shares her life with her partner and their two dogs—Molly Mae, a Newfoundland with chronic allergies, and Biscotti, a hairless Chinese Crested with more medical issues than you can count—their cat Emmie, and more fish than they would care to admit.
Danielle D.
Veterinary Assistant
I have always felt connected to animals and have always wanted to learn more about how to provide pets with the best lives possible. My own 2 dogs, Maisel and Dixie, live like queens at my home. We love going on long hikes in the mountains, and they are always on standby to help clean up any crumbs when I am cooking in the kitchen. I choose to work in the vet industry because I want to help provide care and information to owners to help ensure their pets also live their best lives possible. My favorite part of the veterinary field is being a part of helping sick pets feel better. In my free time, I love hiking, hunting for edible mushrooms, cooking new recipes, and watching all kinds of movies. I also love going out to different restaurants and trying new cuisines, visiting pet-friendly breweries, and exploring new trails.
Alanis
Alanis is a passionate veterinary assistant , with a special love for working with cats. Alanis started her career in rescue and makes sure to go above and beyond to ensure animals in need receive the care, attention, and compassion they deserve. Outside of work, Alanis enjoys relaxing by the lake, and soaking in the natural beauty of the outdoors. At home, Alanis shares a life with her partner and their four cherished cats, who bring joy, companionship, and a little extra fur to every day!
Micah
Micah is a dedicated vet assistant with a passion for animal care and client support. Micah plays a vital role in ensuring every pet receives compassionate attentive care during their visit. Micah helps make sure every pet feels as comfortable as possible while reassuring their owners that their pets are in good hands. Outside of work, Micah enjoys spending time with her dogs, rats, and partner as well as reading and spending time outdoors.
Ava
I’ve loved animals before I could even walk, so working in a vet clinic feels like I’m right at home. I’ve lived in Waynesville for 20 years and have a little crew of pets at home: my basset hound Copper (who’s basically my baby), an American toad named Toadie, and a betta fish named Henry. I’m about to graduate from Asheville-Buncombe Tech to become a Registered Veterinary Technician, and I’m especially interested in working with exotic animals. After graduation, I plan to specialize in exotic animals such as reptiles!
Avery
I’ve spent much of my life working with animals in various capacities—from volunteering and working in boarding facilities to providing hands-on care. Living overseas helped me develop a deep appreciation for animals of all kinds, and I look forward to greeting every face that comes through the door with a smile. I’m committed to making every client and pet feel supported and valued. Outside of work, I love spending time with my friends and family, traveling, and hiking with my two Great Danes.
Oli
As social media champion at WAFV, Oli is combining two of her greatest passions; animals and content creation! Oli grew up loving her pets fiercely. Her goal has always been to work with animals in some capacity. Oli studied Telecommunications at Ball State University in Indiana. She hoped to one day turn her degree into a career, educating others (and herself!) about our incredible companions. Oli started her career with animals working at a local dog daycare. From there, she was able to expand her knowledge and gain a working understanding of canine behavior. Working with these pups inspired Oli to push the scope further and dive into working the front desk at our clinic. This expansion has already taught her so much valuable information. She is so excited for her creative career in pet medicine, along with all of the knowledge she will gain along the way!
Veterinary Philosophy
We work hard to be Asheville’s leading animal care provider. That means outfitting our animal hospital with cutting-edge technology and hiring smart, caring people to bring the furry members of your family the best care possible. We can proudly say we have built an amazing team with compassion, expertise & a love for AVL.
Local, loving care for your dog or cat in West Asheville.
“An amazing place. Only good things! So grateful we have taken our beloved 3-year-old Golden Retriever here. Thought, kind, honest, and compassionate care! “
—Amy G.
Dr. Kristina Hubbard
Chief of Staff
Dr. Hubbard grew up in rural Nebraska with a menagerie of pets ranging from mudpuppy salamanders from the local bait shop to a sassy doe rabbit won at the county fair (even though animals shouldn’t be prizes!). She completed an animal science bachelor’s degree at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and finished veterinary school at Iowa State University.
After a few years as a small animal veterinarian in South Dakota, Dr. Hubbard headed south to Mississippi State University for a three-year residency in population medicine, where she became a board-certified veterinary epidemiologist and completed her master’s degree. She loved teaching veterinary students surgery and on-site disease outbreak investigations on everything from nutrition disorders in cattle herds to virus outbreaks in animal shelters. Following her residency, she spent the last four years in Utqiagvik/Barrow, Alaska, the northernmost town in the United States on the shore of the Arctic Ocean with 67 days of continuous darkness during the winter months and temperatures down to -72F. During her stay, she helped with the Iditarod sled dog race, visited rural Alaska communities to provide veterinary services, and had amazing wildlife neighbors, including polar bears, caribou, whales, and snowy owls, making for an unforgettable experience.
Dr. Hubbard is excited to be in Asheville with access to farmer’s markets, great restaurants, and amazing outdoor activities after her isolation in the Arctic. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, biking, gardening, reading, woodworking, and fiber arts. She provides rent-free accommodations to Murgatroyd (a one-eyed, grumpy old man cat), Berlioz (a three-legged orange tabby), Mannheim (a Mississippi foster failure kitten), and Silent (a very mixed breed dog from Alaska’s North Slope).
Dr. Kimberly Couch
Dr. Kimberly Couch was born and raised on the Southwest Florida coast. She received her undergraduate degrees in Biology and Chemistry at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, FL. While in college, she worked as a veterinary technician. She then received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Florida in Gainesville, FL.
She is a certified veterinary acupuncturist. She is also in the process of obtaining her certification in Canine Rehabilitation (similar to physical therapy) as well as Chinese herbal veterinary medicine. She is fear free certified and believes strongly in making veterinary visits more positive experiences for pets. Her veterinary interests include senior pet care, integrative medicine, dermatology, and small exotic mammal medicine.
Dr. Couch is new to the Asheville area and is enjoying exploring all the new things! She currently has two cats (Gypsy and Pebbles ) and a Golden retriever puppy (Franklin Floopo Mykonos). In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, tending to her plants, and anything to do with the outdoors.
Jessica
Jessica has been dedicated to animal welfare since 2013, bringing over a decade of hands-on experience in management, animal sheltering, and both dog and cat behavior. Her background includes managing shelter departments, consulting on behavior cases, overseeing a horse barn, and running a dog daycare—giving her a well-rounded perspective on animal care.
Now as the Practice Manager of our veterinary hospital, Jessica combines her deep understanding of animal behavior with a passion for client service. She is committed to fostering a warm, welcoming environment while supporting a team that delivers the highest quality veterinary medicine. Jessica enjoys the constant (and occasionally chaotic) energy that comes with working with both animals and the humans who love them. After years in the field, she’s also earned the rare distinction of having literally herded cats—and lived to tell the tale.
Outside of work, Jessica shares her life with her partner and their two dogs—Molly Mae, a Newfoundland with chronic allergies, and Biscotti, a hairless Chinese Crested with more medical issues than you can count—their cat Emmie, and more fish than they would care to admit.
Casey
Customer Service Representative
Casey was born and raised in Western NC. As an animal lover since childhood, Casey studied animal sciences before entering the Veterinary industry in 2016.
Casey and her husband live in Canton with their three dogs, two cats, and a bearded dragon. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and exploring the outdoors, catching a live show here and there, and caring for her pets.
Dr. Lauren Komanski
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Lauren Komanski was raised in Winston-Salem, NC. She attended Columbia University in NYC for her undergraduate degree and continued on to NC State University for veterinary school. She is currently in the process of completing a certificate in veterinary rehab and pain management from the University of Tennessee. Dr. Komanski’s special interests include pain management, GI disease, and dentistry.
Dr. Komanski lives in Asheville with her husband, son, and two dogs. She enjoys cycling and was previously a professional cyclist and raced for the USA national team. Now in her free time, she is happiest exploring nature on a bike or foot with her family.
Dr. Erica Kelly
Veterinarian
Originally from New Jersey, Dr. Erica Kelly pursued her undergraduate degree in Animal Ecology and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) at Iowa State University. Since the age of 5, Dr. Kelly has dreamed of becoming a veterinarian, and she is thrilled to continue her career by joining the team at West Asheville Family Vet. With a passion for all aspects of small animal medicine and a keen interest in both internal and preventative medicine, Dr. Kelly hopes to be a trusted resource for all her clients’ questions and concerns. She is committed to diagnosing and treating complex medical conditions in pets to ensure they lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Kelly enjoys various outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and snowboarding. She also likes exploring breweries and spending quality time with friends and family playing board games and card games. At home, Dr. Kelly cherishes the companionship of her Border Collie, Luka, who has been her loyal companion throughout her schooling.
Butch Bassett
Practice Manager
I love all dogs, big and small, working or toy breeds. The relationship that we have with our companion animals is incredible, and it transcends our persona and personality. I have a BA in US history from UNC-Asheville. I love working with people and love being around animals. Working in the Veterinary industry has allowed me to indulge in both areas. I enjoy hiking, camping, and paddle boarding with my dogs and wife. I love going to a brewery and having a beer with friends and pets. My wife and I live on a small farm in East Asheville, where we have a horse, goats, and chickens.
Sumre W.
Veterinary Assistant
I love and have an interest in all animals, domestic, wild, farm, and exotic; they are all interesting and special. Animals have always been my passion. I began working in the animal field as a young adult and found that I have a passion for advocating for high-quality animal care. In my free time, I enjoy quad skating, swing dancing, and experimenting with crafts. I love spending time training my dogs.
Alanis
Veterinary Assistant
Alanis is a passionate veterinary assistant , with a special love for working with cats. Alanis started her career in rescue and makes sure to go above and beyond to ensure animals in need receive the care, attention, and compassion they deserve. Outside of work, Alanis enjoys relaxing by the lake, and soaking in the natural beauty of the outdoors. At home, Alanis shares a life with her partner and their four cherished cats, who bring joy, companionship, and a little extra fur to every day!
Micah
Veterinary Assistant
Micah is a dedicated vet assistant with a passion for animal care and client support. Micah plays a vital role in ensuring every pet receives compassionate attentive care during their visit. Micah helps make sure every pet feels as comfortable as possible while reassuring their owners that their pets are in good hands. Outside of work, Micah enjoys spending time with her dogs, rats, and partner as well as reading and spending time outdoors.
Ava
Veterinary Assistant
I’ve loved animals before I could even walk, so working in a vet clinic feels like I’m right at home. I’ve lived in Waynesville for 20 years and have a little crew of pets at home: my basset hound Copper (who’s basically my baby), an American toad named Toadie, and a betta fish named Henry. I’m about to graduate from Asheville-Buncombe Tech to become a Registered Veterinary Technician, and I’m especially interested in working with exotic animals. After graduation, I plan to specialize in exotic animals such as reptiles!
Avery
Client Service Representative
I’ve spent much of my life working with animals in various capacities—from volunteering and working in boarding facilities to providing hands-on care. Living overseas helped me develop a deep appreciation for animals of all kinds, and I look forward to greeting every face that comes through the door with a smile. I’m committed to making every client and pet feel supported and valued. Outside of work, I love spending time with my friends and family, traveling, and hiking with my two Great Danes.
Oli
Client Service Representative
As social media champion at WAFV, Oli is combining two of her greatest passions; animals and content creation! Oli grew up loving her pets fiercely. Her goal has always been to work with animals in some capacity. Oli studied Telecommunications at Ball State University in Indiana. She hoped to one day turn her degree into a career, educating others (and herself!) about our incredible companions. Oli started her career with animals working at a local dog daycare. From there, she was able to expand her knowledge and gain a working understanding of canine behavior. Working with these pups inspired Oli to push the scope further and dive into working the front desk at our clinic. This expansion has already taught her so much valuable information. She is so excited for her creative career in pet medicine, along with all of the knowledge she will gain along the way!
Michael L.
Receptionist
Growing up, there wasn’t a time I can remember when we didn’t have a pet in the house. We got our first dog when I started preschool, and after that, we always had feathered or fuzzy pets running around the house. My mom was really my animal-love inspiration. There was never a time that my mom turned away from a hurt animal or one that needed a home. My fiancée and I currently have three Guinea Pigs and are looking forward to introducing a larger fuzzy pet to the family soon!
I’ve worked in the pet industry for about 5 years, and throughout that time, my favorite part has always been being able to help pets. Coming to work at a veterinary office was the perfect career move to continue to try and help animals have happy and healthy lives. I enjoy writing and tabletop game design in my free time. I’m currently working on a module and setting for a tabletop game called Fate. My fiancee and I also love hiking, tubing on the French Broad River, and exploring the local breweries with our friends. We are both new to the area but have been vacationing here for several years, so it’s exciting to get to explore all the areas around the city that we’ve never gotten a chance to check out before!
Amanda R.
Lead Surgery Technician
Amanda is a Mississippi native that moved to North Carolina in 2018. She received her Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Medical Technology from Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Amanda brings to the table experience from several realms of veterinary medicine: laboratory animal medicine & research, surgery & anesthesia, and emergency & critical care. She has also worked in a teaching role for much of her time as a credentialed professional. She has instructed DVM and VMT students in both critical care nursing and anesthesia.
Amanda is most passionate about anesthesia and pain management. She has been lucky enough to anesthetize or assist with over 15 species of surgical patients. She loves to help veterinary staff conquer their fear of anesthesia by teaching about safe and effective monitoring as well as how to provide the best nursing care possible. Amanda is looking forward to working closely with FVG staff to make those involved with surgery more comfortable and confident in their skills.
Parker
Dani
Bio coming soon!
Randi
Veterinary Assistant
Randi made Asheville home via Florida in 2013. A lover of animals since childhood, she has cared for domestic, equine, avian as well as exotic varieties. Her home hosts a lovely German Shepherd, cat, leopard gecko, hamster, bunny, parakeet, chickens, AND a young human. She and her family enjoy the outdoors and hiking in the mountains. She chose to work in the veterinary industry because she wanted to help animals and make things as stress-free as possible for the pets and their owners when possible.
Danielle A.
Receptionist
Danielle is an elusive Asheville native. Having grown up with German Shepherds and a St. Bernard/ Lab mix, she has a soft spot for large dogs. Danielle earned her BA in psychology through AB Tech and UNC Asheville. She began her work with animals as an admissions counselor with the Asheville Humane Society before turning her focus to veterinary medicine. She currently resides in South Asheville; In her free time, Danielle can be found reading books, exploring new places, and spending time with her friends and family.
Danielle D.
Veterinary Assistant
I have always felt connected to animals and have always wanted to learn more about how to provide pets with the best lives possible. My own 2 dogs, Maisel and Dixie, live like queens at my home. We love going on long hikes in the mountains, and they are always on standby to help clean up any crumbs when I am cooking in the kitchen. I choose to work in the vet industry because I want to help provide care and information to owners to help ensure their pets also live their best lives possible. My favorite part of the veterinary field is being a part of helping sick pets feel better. In my free time, I love hiking, hunting for edible mushrooms, cooking new recipes, and watching all kinds of movies. I also love going out to different restaurants and trying new cuisines, visiting pet-friendly breweries, and exploring new trails.
Evelyn B.
Veterinary Assistant
I grew up around animals. To me, animals take care of us in the best and purest way that they can. I feel the need to do the same for them and to be the voice that they don’t have. To be honest, I feel like I did not choose this field; more so, stumbled across it. I had taken a break from college and decided to start volunteering in a kennel. That’s when I discovered how much I love the work that goes into this field. In my free time, I like to take my dog Willa on hikes, play guitar, and do artsy-fartsy things.
Megan L.
Veterinary Assistant
Megan is passionate about exceptional veterinary care and is excited to work with everyone at WAFV. Megan earned her Bachelors degree in Biomedical Science from the University of West Florida and is currently working towards a Masters of Public Health. She has been in the veterinary field for over eight years and finds it rewarding to advocate for animals and keep them happy and healthy. Megan moved here from Florida in the Fall of 2022 with her Fiancé, dog (Greyhound named Zeppelin), and two cats (Captain Jack Sparrow and Sasquatch). When not working or going to school, Megan loves to spend time with her family and pets, try out new restaurants and breweries, and hike/be outside.