Dr. Harrell is a native of Hot Springs, Arkansas. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and earned her veterinary degree at Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1987. Her veterinary experience was honed in Hot Springs and in Kingsport TN before joining Monroe County Animal Hospital.

A member of the Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association and American Veterinary Medical Association, Dr. Harrell also serves the TN Department of Agriculture/TEMA 1st Responder to Agricultural Disasters and the Monroe County Board of Health.

The doctor and husband Charles have two daughters, Hannah and Haley, and one son, Matthew, and are members of the 1st United Methodist Church of Madisonville. Dr. Harrell’s favorite hobbies include dance, reading, camping, and watching the Atlanta Braves.

Dr. Murphy’s connections to Monroe County Animal Hospital began while she was growing up in Madisonville; her interest in becoming a vet lead to her involvement in a summertime volunteer program at the Monroe County animal clinic, working under the mentorship of Dr. David Kefauver and Dr. Boyd Curtis, the latter now one of her partners at MCAH. She first met Dr. Richard Buchanan on a late-night call to the Heiskell family’s Laurel Brooke Farm for a c-section on one of their cows. Inspired by her positive experiences and the menagerie of critters she grew up with, Dr. Murphy completed her undergraduate degree in Animal Science at the University of Tennessee campuses in Martin and Knoxville. She graduated from the UT College of Veterinary Medicine in 2004 and is a member of the Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association as well as the American Veterinary Association.

Dr. Murphy was wed in 2006 to Scott Murphy, who composes music for television “when he is not busy being the best husband and father in the world,” Dr. Murphy notes. In December 2013, they welcomed their daughter Eva into the world. Like most in her profession, Dr. Murphy’s pets were rescued, and include 4 cats named Sawyer, Yoda, Dylan, and Boots. Dr. Murphy and her family are members of Madisonville Presbyterian Church.

Professional travel leads Dr. Murphy to Zanzibar, Tanzania, on an exciting mission trip where she and her team spayed and neutered feral cats in Stone Town and went out in the “shambas” (countryside) to deworm and vaccinate cattle for foot and mouth disease. While she loves cooking and reading, her hobbies have evolved now that she has a child – playing with Eva is at the very top of her list of favorite activities.

Dr. Beason’s passion for animals started at a young age, growing up on his family farm with livestock and crops. He is a 2013 graduate of the University of Tennessee, College of Veterinary Medicine. During his studies, he gained specialized experience through internships in equine medicine in Washington State and in bovine medicine in Argentina. He also interned with a mobile practice specializing in large animal veterinary care, operated by Sweetwater veterinarian Dr. Hugh McCampbell. Dr. Beason eventually purchased this field service practice, and has owned and operated it as Beason’s Veterinary Service LLC for several years. As a veterinarian with Monroe County Animal Hospital, Dr. Beason enjoys utilizing his strong companion animal skills, the perfect accent to his large animal fieldwork.

In his goal to continually grow as a veterinarian, Dr. Beason consults with experts to stay knowledgeable in the latest veterinary treatment options and he follows animal studies that impact the care his clients receive. He is a licensed veterinarian in both Tennessee and Georgia.

Dr. Beason’s life is full of animals, at work and at home. With his wife Mia, he continues working on their fourth-generation family farm. In his spare time, he enjoys training for endurance events such as marathons, triathlons, and obstacle courses. Dr. Beason has a soft spot for youth and is often seen at local 4-H shows writing health certificates, helping children with their animals, and encouraging future generations of farmers.

Dr. Michelle Espy is a graduate of the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, Class of 2021. She always knew she wanted to be a veterinarian for companion animals. She found her love of working with farm animals while earning her bachelor’s degree in animal science, with a minor in wildlife science, at the University of Tennessee. Dr. Espy is originally from middle Tennessee, moved to Knoxville for her studies, and then moved to North Carolina in 2021 for the start of her career as a veterinarian. As of 2024, she has returned close to home to continue her career here with us. Her two cats, Boots and Nova, have been along for the journey. She fostered a few kitties while in North Carolina, and her cats have not enjoyed sharing the attention. Since she was little, she has always been an advocate for cats and would befriend multiple stray/feral kitties.

Dr. Espy has several interests in the field of veterinary medicine. These include feline medicine, farm animal reproduction, and some species of exotic animal medicine. She is fear free certified and helps alleviate stress and anxiety that is related to veterinary visits, as much as possible. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, photography, reading books, watching football, and being by the water. She also has a new hobby of riding her motorcycle, where one day, she hopes to ride it through the curvy mountains on the Tail of the Dragon.

Dr. Makayla Wiley, a native of Kosciusko, MS, discovered her passion for veterinary medicine early on by shadowing a local veterinarian after school and on weekends. This early exposure, combined with her participation in specialized summer enrichment programs, laid a solid foundation for her future in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Wiley pursued her undergraduate studies at Alcorn State University, earning dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Animal Science and Molecular Biology. While at Alcorn, Dr. Wiley worked as a research aide at the university’s small ruminant center and completed two summer research internships. These experiences fueled her interest in production animal medicine, solidifying her goal to become a mixed animal veterinarian.

In May 2024, Dr. Wiley earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine. During her time at MSU, she held positions as a SAVMA Junior and Senior Delegate and served as a Zoetis Student Representative. Her commitment to community service was evident through her roles as a VetCamp counselor and VetAspire Coordinator. She also gained valuable experiences through various large and mixed animal externships that broadened her skill set in both small and large animal care.

Dr. Wiley is enthusiastic about advancing her career across multiple areas of veterinary practice and is dedicated to continual learning. Her professional interests include food animal medicine, soft tissue surgery, and small animal internal medicine. In her leisure time, she enjoys reading, traveling, and supporting her favorite sports teams. Dr. Wiley looks forward to exploring hiking trails and the scenic beauty of East Tennessee as she embarks on this new chapter of her professional journey.

Alanna has nearly six years of experience in veterinary medicine and is passionate about providing every patient with the highest level of care and attention. A graduate of McMinn County High School, she takes pride in treating each pet with compassion and ensuring they feel safe and cared for during every visit. Outside of work, Alanna enjoys spending time with her family and her animals—and loves a good Mexican meal.

Gabbi is a veterinary assistant with a strong passion for animal care and a particular interest in working with large animals. She studied at Cleveland State Community College and is working toward her veterinary technician certification. Known for her empathy, patience, and attentiveness, Gabbi is committed to making every patient feel safe and comfortable. When she’s not working, she stays busy with school and babysitting.

Kayli joined the veterinary field in 2022 and is passionate about helping in any way she can. A graduate of Sequoyah High School, she is dedicated to supporting both patients and her team. In her free time, Kayli enjoys drawing, playing games, and reading books about animals.

With 28 years of experience in veterinary medicine, Lequita brings deep knowledge and compassion to every patient interaction. She takes pride in helping clients feel reassured and comfortable, always striving to provide the best possible care for their pets. Known for her empathy and dedication, Lequita treats every pet and owner with kindness and understanding. Outside of work, she enjoys riding horses, spending time with her pets, and being with her family.

Makenna has four years of experience in veterinary care and is passionate about ensuring every pet feels comfortable and cared for during their visit. She is dedicated to providing high-quality care to both pets and their owners. In her free time, Makenna enjoys reading, hiking, spending time with her dog (Gionilla), and being with friends.

Shelby has been part of the team for two years and studied biology at Chattanooga State Community College. She is passionate about building strong relationships with clients and being a voice for pets who cannot speak for themselves. Shelby finds fulfillment in advocating for animals and supporting her team. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, baking sweet treats, spending time with her cat Piper Ann, and (her words) drinking a little too much coffee.

Tessa has nearly three years of experience and is currently continuing her education through Penn Foster. She is passionate about helping patients feel better and takes pride in being part of a team that makes a difference in animals’ lives. Outside of work, Tessa enjoys riding horses and spending time with her family.

With seven years of experience, Jeanna is a dedicated veterinary assistant who takes pride in being a voice for her patients while building trust with pet owners. She studied at Cleveland State Community College and is known for her strong memory and ability to learn quickly. Outside of work, Jeanna enjoys reading and spending time with her boys.

With 19 years of experience in the field, Misty is a dedicated team member who consistently goes above and beyond to support both clients and their pets. She studied at McMinn Central and Cleveland State and is passionate about providing exceptional care and service. Outside of work, Misty enjoys spending time with her granddaughter.

Ansley is a Licensed Veterinary Medical Technician who began her career in 2022 after graduating from Chattanooga State Community College. She is dedicated to making a difference in each patient’s life, treating every animal as if they were her own. Ansley takes pride in her daily work and in pursuing her lifelong dream in veterinary medicine. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, reading, line dancing, paddleboarding, and spending time with friends and family.

Sara is a kennel assistant who is committed to keeping pets safe, clean, and comfortable during their stay. She plays an important role in maintaining a clean, organized environment and supporting the veterinary team. Sara is currently continuing her education through Penn Foster. In her free time, she enjoys reading and focusing on school.

Tonya is passionate about creating a welcoming and enjoyable experience for every client who walks through the door. She takes pride in getting to know customers and ensuring their visit is positive and memorable. In her free time, Tonya enjoys landscaping, cooking, decorating, and spending time with family and friends.

With over 20 years of experience, Ellyn is a dedicated client coordinator who ensures every pet owner feels supported and cared for. She takes pride in being a reliable and compassionate resource for clients, always striving to provide exceptional service. In her free time, Ellyn enjoys concerts, movies, reading, and traveling.

With over 20 years of experience, Amy brings a wealth of knowledge and a warm, welcoming presence to the team. She studied accounting and business management at Pellissippi State and is passionate about creating a comfortable, efficient experience for both clients and their pets—from a clean, inviting lobby to timely check-ins and check-outs. At home, Amy enjoys life with her husband of 33 years and their pets, along with thrifting, playing cello, and attending recitals.

Jennifer has nearly three years of experience in veterinary care and is known for her compassionate and attentive approach with both pets and their owners. She studied through Phoenix and Illinois Central College and is dedicated to making sure every client feels heard and supported. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys reading, spending time with her dogs, caring for her grandbabies, and camping.