Meet Our Team in Charlotte, NC
What you and your pet have is special—a bond that lasts a lifetime, built on unconditional love and trust. Our team loves animals and people in equal measure, and we want to help support your bond for years to come. Meet the wonderful people who make our practice a warm, welcoming place for every pet and every person. We can’t wait to meet you!
Dr. Tom Gawel
Dr. Tom Gawel grew up in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. His interest in veterinary medicine piqued when he started a job at the age of 15 as a kennel assistant at a 24-hour veterinary hospital in Illinois. He obtained an undergraduate degree in Zoology from Michigan State University (Go Green!). He had the unique experience of completing his veterinary studies on the island of St. Kitts at Ross University; followed by a final clinical year at University of Wisconsin.
Dr. Gawel’s special interests in veterinary medicine include behavior, dentistry, and soft tissue surgery. He began his career in the Tidewater area of Virginia but missed the culture and opportunities of a bigger city. He has been practicing veterinary medicine in the Charlotte area since 2015.
When not at the hospital, Dr. Gawel keeps himself busy with his amazing wife and two boys. An avid sports fan, Dr. Gawel stays true to his roots and cheers on his Chicago teams (except for the White Sox) and MSU Spartans!
Dr. Courtney Hemeyer
Dr. Courtney Hemeyer is originally from Little Rock, AR, but has lived all over the country. She attended Louisiana State University for veterinary school and started her veterinary career in Arkansas followed by North Carolina, before moving to Starkville, MS to complete a 3-year ABVP residency program at Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine. In this program, she received advanced medical and surgical training with dogs and cats in an academic setting. She has now completed the residency and is thankful to be permanently back in North Carolina where she will complete her examinations and receive her American Board of Veterinary Practitioners accreditation.
Her interests and personal passions include feline medicine, internal medicine, dentistry and teaching veterinary students/technicians. When she is not working, she enjoys reading, painting, and spending time with her cat, Remy.
Vikki Certified Veterinary Practice Manager
Vikki is a transplant to Charlotte by way of England, Nashville, and most recently, Washington, DC. As a proud NC State graduate (Go Wolfpack!), she's thrilled to be back in North Carolina and taking advantage of everything the state has to offer.
When she's not at work, you'll likely find Vikki exploring a hiking trail, paddle boarding on the lake, squeezing in a run, or relaxing with a good book and a glass of wine. She's a proud dog person and loves spending time with her Golden Retriever, Cruz, who's always up for the next adventure. She also has a special place in heart for her cat, Calhoun, whom she bottle-raised from just one week old along with the rest of his litter.
Vikki is grateful for the opportunity to have worked at several outstanding veterinary practices throughout her career. Having held nearly every role in the clinical setting, she brings a well-rounded perspective and a deep appreciation for every member of the veterinary team. She believes a successful practice is one where pets feel safe, clients feel supported, and team members feel valued. Vikki is extremely excited to join Dr. Gawel and play an essential role in bringing his vision to life!
Hanna Veterinary Nurse Team Lead
Kadi
Ashley Practice Inventory Officer
Brittani Registered Veterinary Technician
Chelsea
Summer Client Service Team Lead
Zoie
Julian
Valeria
Isla