Dr. Kristin Edds – Veterinarian

Dr. Edds was born in Overton County and has enjoyed small town life from a young age. As a Vol For Life, she graduated from the University of Tennessee with her Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science, fulfilled a United States Army Reserve contract as a Military Police Sergeant, and then completed her Doctorate Degree from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine.

She and her husband have been blessed with three wild and wonderful children (which you will likely see running around the office on any given afternoon) with another set to join them in December 2024. They all live in White County, together with their large herd of rescue critters, and affectionately call their farm “The Broken Goat Ranch”.

Her professional interests include working dogs (military, police, and agriculture), geriatric/quality of life care, rescue/trauma cases, and advanced soft tissue wound healing.

Outside of work, Dr. Edds’ most important hobby is being a mom, and she can always be found toting a kid or three wherever she goes. She also enjoys shooting sports (if you want your appointment to go over your scheduled time, ask about her favorite handgun), UT football, fishing, horseback riding, being outside with the family, and reading a good book.

Dr. Kate Wilson – Veterinarian

Dr. Wilson joined the Bluegrass team as an associate veterinarian in 2020. She attended undergraduate at Clemson University and graduated from Oklahoma State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine in 2012. Since orange has treated her so well, Tennessee seemed like another great place to live.

Dr. Kate’s Tennessee veterinary experience started out centered around surgery and assisting in the spay/neuter community. But the excitement and variety of general medicine called her to Bluegrass. She has found no greater place to help foster the human-animal bond than by practicing the best medicine possible in the most welcoming of small towns. Besides surgery, her specific interests within veterinary medicine are wound care and ophthalmology.

Outside of work, Dr. Kate can be found insisting that she enjoys the frustration of raising Welsh Ponies, shouting at ill-behaved dogs, or embarrassing her mother with her poor gardening skills. More recently, she is a resident diaper-changer and spit-up cleaner to her daughter Josey, born Thanksgiving Day 2020. Her partner in crime is her ever-patient husband James, who is also a veterinarian. He is a helper with all of the projects she creates and the other half of the family they’ve begun here in Tennessee.

Dr. Ashley Lancaster – Veterinarian

Dr. Ashley Lancaster joined the Bluegrass team as an associate veterinarian in June 2022. Dr. Lancaster is from a small town in North Carolina but was born in Illinois. She attended the University of Tennessee at Martin, where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture. Following this, Dr. Lancaster got accepted into the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, where she received her Doctorate degree.

After so many years in Tennessee, Dr. Lancaster and her husband decided to stay and moved to Crossville to finally settle down! At her home in Crossville, Dr. Lancaster and her husband are in the process of starting their very own farm/mini zoo. They have a Golden Retriever with the sweetest soul, another Golden Retriever full of spice and sass (she’s the only girl pup of the family, what can I say), a somewhat clueless Springer Spaniel (he’s cute though), a nosey and wise terrier mix, 2 always hungry and very chunky tabby cats, 2 very cute rabbits that like to frequently get the zoomies, a horse that requires sunscreen on his nose to be outdoors, and some cows that spend their day laying in/damming up our tiny creek.

In the field of veterinary medicine, Dr. Lancaster is interested in just about everything. Her favorite area of veterinary medicine definitely revolves around internal and preventative medicine. Outside of being a veterinarian, Dr. Lancaster enjoys riding and playing with her horses (mostly just brushing them, it’s therapeutic), gardening and growing way more veggies than necessary, attempting to raise registered cattle, and watching back-toback movies.

Dr. Kara Brady – Veterinarian

Dr. Kara Brady joined the Bluegrass team on a part-time basis in May 2024. A passionate advocate for animal health and well-being, she graduated from Tennessee Tech in 2015 with a degree in Agriculture and Animal Science. Driven by her lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian, Dr. Brady furthered her education at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, where she earned her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 2023.

Raised in Rickman, Dr. Brady grew up in a nurturing environment surrounded by agriculture alongside her parents and three sisters. This upbringing not only instilled a deep love for animals in her but also shaped her commitment to veterinary medicine. She has been happily married to her husband, David, for 10 years, and together they share their home with Penny, a mixed-breed terrier, and Timothy, an orange tabby cat.

Professionally, Dr. Brady is particularly passionate about preventative medicine, ophthalmology, and large animal reproductive medicine. In her spare time, she loves to explore the great outdoors through hiking, travel to new places, and tend to her garden. Dr. Brady also enjoys spending quality time with her family on Dale Hollow Lake and is a proud supporter of the University of Tennessee Volunteers, cheering them on as a loyal Vol for Life (VFL).

Yvonne Hendrix – Office Manager

Yvonne started out as our clinic’s front desk receptionist, but transitioned into an office manager position in the summer of 2020. While you’ll still see her up front or hear her answering phone calls on occasion, she focuses more now on the behind-the-scenes operations of the clinic so that the rest of the staff can focus on taking exceptional care of your pet!

Yvonne and her husband, Bo, have been married since 2008 and have three wild, handsome boys. They have a sweet Yorkie mix named Bear (who is claimed by most of the extended family), a golden retriever mix named Cheezy (whose goal in life is simply to be petted and to steal all the stuffed animals in the house), and a small Australian Shepherd mix named Sadie (the most loving thing you’ve ever met).

In her very limited free time, Yvonne loves all things music, reading, and anything that takes place in or on the water. She’s so honored to be a part of the exceptional Bluegrass Vet team!

Teran Taylor – Licensed Veterinary Technician
Lead Technician

Teran is a Licensed Veterinary Technician that, like most of us, started loving and caring for animals at a young age. She has always had some type of furry critter to love on, whether it be a dog, horse, cat, or a cow. She’s had them all, and often many at one time! She graduated from White County High School, went on to Motlow State Community College to study music, and then changed schools and career paths to become a Veterinary Technician. She graduated from Volunteer State Community College with an Associate’s of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology, and passed the State Board test to become a Licensed Veterinary Medical Technician! Her work interests include: surgery, laboratory work, dental cleanings, and emergency cases.

Teran is recently married, and she and her husband live in Sparta with their furry critters: a blue heeler dog and 2 rescue cats. Her hobbies outside of work include horseback riding, singing, being with family and friends, and anything outdoors.

Kyrua Beaty – Veterinary Assistant

Kyrua grew up in Byrdstown, TN with 5 brothers and a sister. As a child, Kyrua always loved being around animals because of the calmness they seemed to bring her. After high school, Kyrua moved to East Tennessee where she completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. However, she decided to branch away from that work and pursue her desire to work with animals. After a short time volunteering at a small town clinic, Kyrua knew she had found her passion. As Mark Twain said, “find a job you enjoy and you’ll never have to work a day in your life”, and working with animals was that job for her. Kyrua enjoys working as a veterinary assistant because it is a challenging yet rewarding career. Kyrua’s professional interests are shelter medicine/rescue cases, veterinary social work, and abscesses.

Kyrua resides with her life partner, Tyler, and their daughter Elody in Cookeville where they have 6 cats and 2 dogs together. She enjoys going to the beach, reading books, and doing puzzles in her free time. Kyrua (as a former clogger) also enjoys going to bluegrass festivals and watching clogging competitions when she is not working.

Catherine Ratermann – Veterinary Assistant

Catherine is a Veterinary Assistant at Bluegrass Vet. Her fascination with animals, science, and nature is what pushed her into a career in veterinary medicine. This fascination with all living things began while exploring the mountains and woods of Tennessee with her parents as a child. While she dearly loves her small animal patients, she hopes to learn more about wildlife and exotic veterinary medicine. Catherine has recently been continuing her education and is a certified diabetes educator and feline friendly veterinary professional.

Outside of work, Catherine loves a good book, a warm drink, soaking up sunshine, and a hug from her sweet husband. Together they share their home with a pack of furry creatures that is ever-changing as Catherine is a sucker for a critter in need of a good home. We are so lucky to have her heart at the BVC!

Jacquelyn Brown – Veterinary Assistant

Since joining Bluegrass Vet in March 2024, Jacquelyn Brown has brought with her an impressive wealth of knowledge and experience, boasting over 30 years in the veterinary field. Her dedication to animal care and surgical expertise makes her an invaluable asset to our team. Jacquelyn’s professional focus is clear —surgery is her passion, and if your pet is undergoing a procedure, there’s a 99.9% chance that Jacquelyn is part of the caring team ensuring their safety and comfort.

Outside of her professional life, Jacquelyn cherishes her family. She shares her home with her husband, Sam, and is a proud mother to three adult children: Daniel, Elaina, and Jacob. The joy of her life comes from her granddaughters, Remi, Gwen, and Brianna, with whom she loves to spend quality time. Jacquelyn is also a devoted animal lover, sharing her life with an abundance of pets, including Tobie, Yuki, Angel, Lizzy, Shadow, Gypsy, Scarface, and Boy. In her spare time, Jacquelyn finds fulfillment in cleaning and creating a warm, welcoming home for her family. Whether in the clinic or at home, her commitment to caring for both pets and loved ones shines through, making her an inspiring figure in both her professional and personal life.

Lexi Hargis – Veterinary Assistant

Lexi is a veterinary assistant at Bluegrass, where she has been making a positive impact since January 2024. With four years of hands-on experience in the veterinary field, Lexi is currently pursuing her passion for animal care by studying in the veterinary technician program at San Juan College.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Lexi treasures her personal life. She has been happily partnered with her high school sweetheart, Jeremy, since 2018, and the couple tied the knot in 2022. Together, they are proud parents to their adorable son, Laken Kade.

Family is at the heart of everything Lexi does, and she cherishes every moment spent with them. In her free time, she loves to explore the great outdoors, going hiking and visiting the lake, where she enjoys creating lasting memories with her loved ones.

Professionally, Lexi has a special affinity for “old lady cats” and is passionate about providing the best care for them. At home, she is also the proud owner of a mixed terrier named Layla Grace, who has a playful personality and a unique disdain for water, despite practically living at the lake! With her blend of professional expertise and personal dedication to family and pets, Lexi is truly a compassionate and driven individual, and we are blessed to have her at Bluegrass Vet.

Judith Flowers – Veterinary Assistant

Judith joined the Bluegrass team as a veterinary assistant in April 2024, bringing with her a wealth of experience in veterinary care that began in 2019. As the oldest of five siblings, she has cultivated a sense of maturity and responsibility that shines through in her professional endeavors. Judith has a special passion for working with large animals and excels in providing emergency care, demonstrating her commitment to animal welfare and her ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.

At home, Judith is surrounded by an assortment of pets that reflect her love for animals. She shares her life with Atka, a gentle Great Pyrenees, Cassie, a friendly golden retriever, a charming bird named Penn, a mixed breed pup named Tucker, and two playful cats, Mia and Piper. Each of her pets holds a special place in her heart and contributes to the joyful atmosphere of her home.

In her spare time, Judith embraces her creative side through various hobbies. She enjoys reading, baking, acting, and singing, often finding solace and inspiration in these activities. One of her favorite pastimes is watching Hallmark movies with her grandparents, creating cherished memories that bring her family closer together. Judith’s compassion for animals, along with her vibrant personality and diverse interests, make her a valued member of the Bluegrass team.

Keyle Rhea – Veterinary Assistant

Keyle Rhea is a veterinary assistant at Bluegrass Veterinary Clinic, where she has been making a difference since November 2022. With a passion for animal care, she is currently pursuing an Animal Science Major at Tennessee Tech, laying the foundation for a fulfilling career in veterinary medicine. Her journey in the veterinary field began in June 2022, when she took her first role at Pet Medical Center in Tullahoma, which ignited her love for helping animals. At Bluegrass Veterinary Clinic, Keyle wears many hats—whether it’s answering phones, maintaining a clean environment, or assisting skilled technicians, she is always ready to lend a hand. However, her true passion lies in assisting with surgery patients, where she finds immense satisfaction in helping animals recover and thrive.

When she’s not at the clinic, Keyle enjoys a fulfilling life on her farm, where she raises sheep and cattle. Her home is filled with love and laughter, thanks to her beloved pets: Banjo, an energetic Beagle born at the clinic; Beau, a gentle Great Pyrenees who adores belly rubs; and Dandi, a mischievous Juliana Pig who has a penchant for sneaking out to munch on sheep food. With a heart for animals and an unwavering commitment to their well-being, Keyle Rhea exemplifies the spirit of a true animal lover.

Katielynn Wickman – Pharmacy/Inventory

KatieLynn has been an integral part of the Bluegrass team in various roles since January 2023, bringing her passion for animals and expertise in veterinary care. She graduated as a veterinary assistant in December 2018 and has dedicated her career to the veterinary field ever since, where she has gained valuable experience and knowledge.

Outside of work, KatieLynn shares a vibrant life with her husband, Mathew, and their spirited little boy, Colton. Together, they enjoy the adventures of family life, especially with their two beloved dogs: River, a playful lab mix, and Copper, a loyal shepherd mix, who add joy and energy to their home. In her limited free time, KatieLynn finds solace in hiking the great outdoors and diving into a good book, allowing her to recharge and enjoy the beauty of nature. With a strong commitment to her family and a passion for animal care, KatieLynn is a huge asset to the Bluegrass team.

Megan Moore – Kennel Assistant

Megan began as the friendly voice you first hear when you call BVC and the smiling face you see when you walk in the building but is now doing all the dirty work in the back making sure your pets have a clean crate and warm blankets for their stay! She has been working with us since February 2021. Megan grew up in Sparta and graduated from White County High School in 2013. She has had a passion and a big love for animals ever since she was a little girl, so getting to work around animals all day, every day has been a dream come true!

When Megan is not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and loving on her dogs: Pepper the Frug (French bulldog-pug mix), Buddy, a lab mix, and Hemi, a beagle mix. She also enjoys anything outdoors, and you can often find her shooting guns, fishing, hunting, or making bonfires. Megan is so excited to be part of such an amazing, outstanding team at Bluegrass Vet!

Abby Grainger – Customer Service

Abby Grainger has been the welcoming presence at Bluegrass Vet since August 2024, bringing her warmth and enthusiasm to the world of veterinary medicine. Previously, Abby dedicated 25 years to a successful career in IT and Information Security, but her passion for animals led her to embrace this new path. Residing in Sparta for the past nine years, Abby shares her life with her husband and their two energetic boys. Their household is lively with the presence of Marin, a young cat with an old soul; Tiny, a sweet kitten known for making friends wherever he goes; and Rosie, a lovable German Shepherd mix who enjoys being “Mama’s very good girl” (well, most of the time!).

In her role at the clinic, Abby finds immense joy in interacting with the various pets that come through the doors, fully embracing the opportunity to pet and connect with them. Outside of work, she immerses herself in her creative hobbies, including fiber arts such as knitting, crocheting, spinning, and weaving, as well as paper crafts, especially card making. Abby also actively supports her community by participating in the local Cub Scout pack and Scout troop, sharing her time and talents with the next generation. With her diverse background and deep love for animals, Abby is truly a valued member of the Bluegrass Vet family.