Meet Our Caring Team of Veterinary Professionals

Lauren Hernandez has been serving as Practice Manager since joining the hospital in March 2021. Her journey into veterinary medicine began when her cousin invited her to see the field firsthand, and she quickly realized it was the perfect blend of her passion for teaching and her love for animals. Lauren finds fulfillment in guiding the next generation of veterinary students, supporting pet parents, and ensuring smooth, compassionate care for every patient and client. Outside of work, Lauren enjoys spending time with her family, visiting the beach, and watching her son play baseball. At home, she cares for two very spoiled bottle babies: Magnolia, a three-year-old domestic medium hair tortie who adores her husband, and Aisrah, a smoky black domestic long hair who is equally enamored with him. One of Lauren’s favorite aspects of her role is working alongside her oldest son, who is neurodivergent—she treasures having him as part of the team.

Kristina Caughey joined the hospital in August 2019 and brings a wealth of experience in surgery specialty and emergency care. Her passion for veterinary medicine began in childhood, inspired by a desire to help injured wildlife and learn how to care for animals in need. In her role, Kristina finds the most fulfillment in organizing, mentoring, and watching her colleagues grow and succeed. She also loves working with cats that lean into pets and strives to make each patient’s visit safer and more comfortable. Outside of work, Kristina enjoys sitting in the sunshine, paddleboarding, fostering pets in need, and spending time with her dog, Kane—a lovable Lab mix who adores swimming, playing keep away, and soaking up attention. Kristina is always ready for a new adventure, whether traveling and exploring the world or relaxing when she can. Her dedication to her patients and her adventurous spirit make her an invaluable part of the team.

Kami Walden joined the hospital team in February 2023, bringing with her over 14 years of experience as a Licensed Veterinary Technician. Drawn to the profession by a deep fondness for animals and a passion for helping people, Kami finds it especially rewarding to ensure that every pet and pet owner has equal access to veterinary care, regardless of their circumstances. Outside of work, Kami cares for a lively backyard flock of 17 chickens and enjoys hobbies like crocheting, baking, sewing, and planting. She shares her home with three cats: Mau, Tubby, and David Puddy.

Mason has been a veterinary technician for over eight years and joined the hospital team in June 2023. Growing up on a large farm and ranch, he developed a strong connection to animals early on. Mason is passionate about building lasting bonds between pets, their owners, and the care team, and he finds fulfillment in earning trust and making clients smile through compassionate care. Outside of work, Mason enjoys spending time with his family on the ranch and being outdoors. He has two golden retrievers—Goose, a playful one-year-old who loves people-watching, and Nelli, a sweet Pavo survivor known for her love of hiding toys and snuggling.

Reannah is a veterinary technician who joined the hospital in July 2024. She holds a certificate in equine science and discovered her passion for veterinary medicine through a pre-vet tech class in high school. With experience in large and small animal care, equine, emergency, and internal medicine, Reannah is especially passionate about educating others. Outside of work, she enjoys crocheting, horseback riding, and reading. She shares her life with a beloved group of pets—Kevin, Cassia, Aryai, Kai, Nui, Toot, Lysandra, and Poseiden.

Bio Coming Soon!

Ty Hernandez is a Kennel Technician who joined the hospital in June 2024. Naturally drawn to animals and caregiving, Ty brings a calm, attentive presence to the team. He takes pride in maintaining a clean, organized environment for every pet in his care. Outside of work, Ty enjoys gaming, spending time with family, and caring for his grandparents. He shares his home with two Chihuahua mixes, Jengo and Heppyie.

Katelyn Williams is a Vet Assistant and Lead Kennel Tech who returned to the hospital in June 2024 after previously working there from 2018 to 2021. Her love for animals and caring for her own pets inspired her to pursue a career in veterinary care. With experience in both veterinary and boarding facilities, Katelyn is passionate about providing exceptional care and educating pet owners. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, quilting, baking, hiking, camping, and family game nights. She shares her home with Odin the Pyrenean Mastiff, Theia the Lab mix, and Albus the Maine Coon.

Daniela Perez joined the hospital team in February 2023 as a dedicated Veterinary Assistant. She was drawn to the veterinary field by her compassion for animals, especially those who have no way of asking for help. Daniela finds great fulfillment in witnessing the progress of sick pets as they recover, knowing that her work plays a part in making a lasting, positive difference in their lives. Outside of work, Daniela enjoys drawing, painting, and exploring her creativity through art. She’s also an avid gamer and finds joy in relaxing with video games. At home, she has a two-year-old male cat named Rick O’Connell, who she describes as sweet, curious, and playful. Daniela brings passion, empathy, and a love for animals into everything she does, making her a valued member of the veterinary care team.

Since joining Walnut Creek Veterinary Hospital in 2017, Janet has become a cherished member of our team. You can often find her beloved Black Labrador, Stetson, by her side at the reception desk, where they both appreciate the kindness from our clients. Janet values the relationships she’s built and loves assisting new pet owners with their care needs.

Shandel Miller has been part of the hospital team since 2018, combining her customer service expertise with hands-on veterinary skills. Her lifelong love for animals led her to the veterinary field, where she finds the most fulfillment in helping pets and their families. Outside of work, Shandel enjoys rodeo and barrel racing, watching movies, camping, fishing, and spending summer days at the lake. Her love for animals extends well beyond the clinic—she shares her life with an incredible crew: Kit Kat, her special-needs cat; Gracie and Star, her retired barrel horses; Gator, a barrel horse; Dreamer, a riding horse; and Cowboy, a lovable Australian Shepherd she adopted from a shelter. Shandel’s dedication to animal care, both in and out of the clinic, makes her a valued and compassionate member of the team.

Cassidy Thomas has been a part of the hospital team since September 2021, serving as a Client Services Representative. A Certified Veterinary Assistant through Animal Behavior College, Cassidy combines her formal training with hands-on job experience to provide exceptional care and support. Her lifelong love for animals is what first drew her to veterinary medicine, and she finds the most fulfillment in helping pets feel better and keeping them healthy. Outside of work, Cassidy enjoys crafting, gaming, and watching movies. She and her husband are both native Texans and have been happily married for seven years. Their home is full of love—and activity—thanks to their five dogs and two cats.