Dr. Shelbe Rice
Owner/Veterinarian
Dr. Shelbe Rice has a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Georgia Southern University. She then attended the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine and received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine degree in 2018. Although Dr. Rice is originally from middle Georgia, she fell in love with Northeast Georgia during her time at UGA and decided to make it her home — she now lives in Oglethorpe County not too far from Elberton. Prior to coming to Elberton in February of 2021, Dr. Rice worked at a nearby rural mixed animal practice for 3 years, where she treated a broad spectrum of animals, including cats, dogs, sheep, goats, and horses. Her interests in small animal medicine include soft tissue surgery and preventative care. She also thoroughly enjoys equine reproduction and field medicine. She consistently strives to rise above and beyond to not only further her education through research, but also give the best care to each patient as if they were her own – from small animals to large animals, she loves them all! In her spare time, she enjoys riding her horses and spending time with her husband and their two children. They have a whole crew of animals at home. Always equipped with a big smile and lots of enthusiasm, she looks forward to attending to any and all of your pet’s needs.
Amber Tapley
Veterinary Assistant
Amber is a veterinary assistant who truly loves working with animals and helping care for them every day. She has been in the veterinary field since 2019 and has gained hands-on experience supporting patient care and assisting in the clinic. Originally from Carnesville, Georgia, she now lives in Colbert with her three kids Paisley-Ann, Weston, and Nolan along with her boyfriend Trevor, and their Lab, Willow, and their cat, Mini.
Christine Brubaker
Manager / Veterinary Assistant
Christine grew up in Chesapeake, VA, prior to moving to Georgia in 2010 to be closer to family. She has worked in the veterinary field for over 25 years and is a huge asset to our practice. Christine started working at the practice in January 2022, when Dr. Rice finally convinced her to come. When she isn’t working she enjoys camping and trail riding with her wife Janet. No joke: She has 30+ animals, and they take all her time.
Michelle Medellin
Veterinary Assistant
Michelle has been working with us since June 2018. She has lived in Elberton her entire life. Michelle is currently enrolled in a program to become a Registered Veterinary Technician with us. She loves to work on her technical skills within the clinic to ensure your pet has a great experience. In her free time, she enjoys going out with her friends and family. She is also a native Spanish speaker and kindly translates for our Spanish-speaking clients. We love working with Michelle, and she loves helping you and your fur babies!
Skylar
Client Care Specialist
Skylar has been in the veterinary field for six years and enjoys building relationships with clients and getting to know their beloved pets. She hopes to make every visit a welcoming and positive experience for both pets and their families. Outside of the office, Skylar enjoys spending time with her husband, Tyler, their daughter, Riley, their four dogs and two donkeys. She looks forward to welcoming you and your furry family members to our office!