About Us
Welcome to
Animal Care Center of Tupelo
At Animal Care Center of Tupelo, we believe your four-legged family members deserve the same thoughtful, compassionate care you’d expect for yourself. That’s why we go beyond medicine, providing genuine connection, personalized attention, and a warm, welcoming environment for both pets and their people.
We are a full-service small animal clinic offering state-of-the-art veterinary care with a personal touch. From routine wellness visits to advanced diagnostics, surgery, and more, our goal is to help your pet live a long, healthy, and happy life. Our compassionate, experienced team is dedicated to building strong relationships with each pet and their owner, because trust is at the heart of exceptional care.
Whether you’re visiting for a quick checkup or navigating a more complex health issue, you can expect:
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A friendly team that knows your pet by name
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Clear communication and honest recommendations
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Gentle handling and lots of TLC (plus treats and belly rubs)
We’re proud to be one of Tupelo’s most trusted veterinary practices, and we’re honored to care for this community’s beloved pets. When you walk through our doors, you become part of our family – and your pet does, too.
Our Team
Dr. Shelley Key-Russell
Practice Owner / Veterinarian
Dr. Shelley Key-Russell has been a veterinarian at Animal Care Center since 2009. She became the chief of staff in 2011 and is now the practice owner. Dr. Russell has a special interest in exotic medicine and oncology. She is married to Derek Russell and they have 3 children.
Dr. Katy Miller
Veterinarian
Dr. Rena Clardy
Veterinarian
Dr. Kayla Lewis
Veterinarian
Christa
Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) / Director of Operations
Christa is a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) and the Director of Operations at Animal Care Center. She joined the team in 2014 and became Fear Free Elite Certified in 2020. Christa has a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. Her interests include anesthesia, dentistry, emergency, and critical care. In her spare time, Christa enjoys spending time with her husband and their family of rescue pets.
Neely
Lead Veterinary Assistant
Neely is a Lead Veterinary Assistant at Animal Care Center. She is currently working towards a degree in Veterinary Technology. Neely has been part of the team since 2016. She enjoys spending time with her husband and their animals, hanging out with friends, and working with wildlife.
Breanna
Lead Veterinary Assistant
Breanna is one of our Lead Veterinary Assistants. She received her Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Medical Technology in 2022 and has worked with us since. She enjoys spending time with her husband, reading, and creating art.
Anna C.
Veterinary Assistant
Anna is one of our Veterinary Assistants. She is currently working on a degree in veterinary technology. Anna has been part of our team since 2023. Her interests include anesthesia, large animal, and diagnostic medicine. She enjoys spending time with her family and animals, reading, and crocheting.
Vada B.
Veterinary Assistant
Waneisha Hadley
CSR Manager
Waneisha has been part of our family since April 2011 and loves being the friendly first face clients see when they visit. Known for her warm smile and upbeat energy, she enjoys meeting new people, singing, and spending time with family and friends. Her favorite drink is a Monkey Mocha from Mae’s to Go, and she loves the movie, The Lion King. Her favorite saying is: “A smile is a universal welcome.”
Rebecca Ratliff
CSR
Rebecca has been a vital part of our team since May 2020, welcoming every client and pet with warmth and efficiency. As a first point of contact at our front desk, she keeps things running smoothly and makes sure every visit starts off right.
She loves getting to know our clients and their pets—and never misses a chance to sneak in a cuddle with a puppy or kitten. Outside of work, Rebecca enjoys cooking and spending time with her family and dogs.
Trisha Price
CSR
Trisha has been part of our team since February 2023 and keeps everything running smoothly by making sure all our paperwork is in order for each visit. A former Air Force ROTC member, she brings dedication and heart to everything she does. Trisha loves Friends and Reba, enjoys a good Pumpkin Spice Latte, and lives by the quote: “People will never forget how you made them feel.”
Haley T.
CSR
Haley joined our team in September 2024 and is one of the friendly faces who greets you and your pets at the front desk. She’s a proud dog mom to four sweet pups and loves helping people just as much as she loves animals. Her favorite part of the job is knowing she’s helping our clients and their pets—because here, they’re all part of our family!
Brittany M.
Office Manager
A part of the Animal Care Center family since 2011, Brittany keeps our clinic running smoothly every day! She loves supporting the team and tackling new challenges. Outside of work, she enjoys home improvement projects, watching movies, and cheering on her son at his games with her husband. We’re so thankful for her leadership and the heart she brings to our clinic!
Anna M.
Administrative Assistant
Anna joined our team in 2019 and keeps our office running smoothly so we can focus on caring for your pets. She loves lending a helping hand wherever it’s needed and being part of every aspect of the clinic. A proud pet parent to Shep, a Great Pyrenees, and Tom the cat, Anna’s positive attitude and willingness to jump in wherever needed make her an invaluable part of our team.
Topie P.
Pet Care Coordinator
Topie joined our team in 2019 and has been making tails wag ever since. As our Pet Care Coordinator, she loves seeing pets light up when they arrive—and even more when they reunite with their owners.
She’s also a trailblazer, having been the first female Eagle Scout in her council. Her favorite coffee is a cinnamon shaken espresso, and she loves monkeys!
Anna Grace H.
Lead Pet Care Specialist
Anna Grace joined our team in June 2024 and loves helping clients and their pets every day. In her spare time, she enjoys training duck dogs and watching Heartland. Her easygoing motto, “It is what it is,” fits her perfectly!
Kaylee E.
Pet Care Specialist
Kaylee joined the clinic as a pet care specialist in 2025. Her favorite part of the job is when the dogs run up like she’s their favorite person ever! A former high school powerlifter, she’s more than ready to carry your 50lb pup with ease. When she’s not caring for pets, Kaylee enjoys caramel iced coffee, Megamind, and living by her motto: “Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.”
Erin M.
Bio coming soon.
Anessa M.
Clinic Photos
General Questions
What services do you provide?
We offer a full range of veterinary services including wellness and sick exams, vaccinations, dental care, surgery, diagnostics, microchipping, and emergency care. We also have boarding, bathing, and grooming.
What are your hours of operation?
Our clinic is open Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM. We are closed on Sundays and major holidays.
Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes, appointments are recommended to minimize wait times. Walk-ins are accepted for emergencies.
Do you offer emergency services?
Yes, we offer emergency care during business hours. For after-hours emergencies, please see this page for more information.
What types of animals do you treat?
We primarily treat dogs and cats. For exotic pets, please call ahead to confirm availability of care.
What should I bring to my pet’s first visit?
Please bring any previous medical records, a list of medications or supplements your pet is taking, and a stool sample if available.
How much does a visit cost?
Costs vary depending on the services needed. A standard wellness exam typically ranges from $65-$75. We’ll provide estimates before proceeding with any treatments. See our preventative care plans page for an idea of what a visit can cost you.
Do you offer payment plans?
We offer financing options through CareCredit. Payment is due at the time of service.
Do you spay/neuter pets?
Yes, we offer safe and affordable spay/neuter surgeries. Please contact us to schedule a consultation.
How do I refill my pet’s prescription?
Prescription refills can be requested by phone or text. Please allow 24-48 hours for processing.
How do I know if my pet needs to see a vet?
Common signs include changes in appetite, behavior, vomiting, diarrhea, limping, weight loss, or unusual lethargy. If you’re unsure, give us a call.
Where are you located and how do I contact you?
We are located at 5162 Cliff Gookin Blvd., Tupelo, MS 38801. You can reach us at 662-842-8707 (call or text).
