About Us

Janet L. Ackerman, D.V.M

Dr. Janet Ackerman opened Animal Medical Center in 1986, with the goal of promoting the health and well-being of companion animals and horses. Her two adult sons both grew up in FFA. Jared now works in the agriculture industry and Dustin is a Firefighter and Medic. Dr. Ackerman has two cool horses- Lucas and Jay, who love to go trail riding, and a mini (Boo) who's full of mischief. She has bred and raised Australian Shepherds, Dachshunds, and Labs in the past and presently has a mixed-breed rescue dog named Hooligan. Boy did she earn her name! Outside the office, Dr. Ackerman enjoys time with her husband, her horses, nature photography, hiking, anything on the water, and home improvement projects.

Bonnie Smith

Bonnie takes care of the bookkeeping and business needs of the practice. She and her husband, Rickey, have two daughters, Jennifer and Kerri, who are close by. Both have children of their own, and grandsons Justin, Jakson, Jaken and Jesse along with granddaughter Jemma are the lights of Bonnie's life! Occasional orphaned birds, puppies, or kittens are her extended family. Doodle Bug is her most famous pet; he came to our office after being abandoned and near death in a dumpster. Bonnie's TLC saved him, and he became a happy, healthy member of her family for many years.

Lori Ashe

Lori has over 40 years of grooming experience and can turn your scruffy pet into a runway model! Her work is beautiful and she has a wonderful touch with all kinds of animals. Lori has also taught our canine obedience classes in the past. She has had countless pets, including Agility Champion Toot the Papillion, squirrels, and a potbelly pig. Presently her family includes two Papillons, Cheeky and Flynn, two Golden Retrievers, Champion Antione and Walter, Tonks, a Smooth Coated Collie, two horses, chickens, and last (but not least!) husband Duane. Lori and Duane spend their free time training and competing successfully in Dock Diving, Barn Hunt, Rally, Agility, and Conformation.

Crystal Cromer

Crystal began as a receptionist in 2021 and now is picking up even more skills assisting Dr. Ackerman with hands-on patient care. She is a mother to 3 beautiful girls, Angel, Bella, and Ashtyn. She is also the mother to 2 very spoiled pitties, Gunner and Chi and recently rescued her new kitty, Peachy. She is pursuing her lifelong passion, love, and dream of working with animals. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, spoiling her fur babies, and crafting. She will always greet you with a smile and will love and care for your fur babies as if they were her own.

Julee Whitehead

Julee volunteered at the office as a teen and quickly climbed the ranks from Kennel Tech to Veterinary Assistant, and now plays a vital role with Public Relations. She is the proud mom of an adorable son named Lincoln. Julee loves nature and was raised around animals, from exotics to household pets. They have always sparked her curiosity and held a special place in her heart. Her own pets include Ozzie, the Dachshund, Paisley, the mixed breed, and Ziva, a brown tabby. Julee brings a special light and energy to the office and is known to keep everyone laughing!

Brittany Knight

Brittany recently relocated from Tallahassee to Cairo to be closer to family. She's the proud mother of 3 adult children. Brittany loves animals and anything pertaining to them. For six years, she participated in raising puppies and service dogs for Canine Companions for Independence where she provided early training and socialization for canines destined to assist their owners with various special needs. She enjoyed every minute of it! Brittany enjoys family time, playing softball, and fishing. She is very excited about her opportunity to work at Animal Medical Center and make new furry friends!

Amber Dorpinghaus

Amber brings many years of valuable experience as a receptionist to our team. She and Daniel, her wonderful husband of fifteen years, share their home and live with two cats (Zelda & Zie) who are spunky & sassy. She also has an amazing Standard Poodle puppy (Antonio), who she is training to be her Service Dog. She loves the outdoors and helping animals in need, especially orphans, and has a passion for crocheting small things & drawing. Amber wholeheartedly believes in giving animals with a Ruff start, the Purr-fect family life.

Nan Boyles

Nan was born and raised in Thomasville, Georgia and has lived in Cairo for eight years now. She gathered skill in a receptionist position at another animal hospital on the east coast, and we are fortunate to have her experience and smiling face at our front desk! Nan is married with three children and four grandchildren, and a beloved Yorkie named Cowboy. She loves gardening and reading in her spare time.