Our Team

Our doctors and technicians regularly attend continuing education seminars in order to always remain on the cutting edge of veterinary medicine. In fact, we accumulate more continuing education credits than is required for state licensing! We are fortunate to have five certified technicians on staff, which is complemented by a well-trained support staff of receptionists and veterinary assistants. Certified technicians have completed two years of technical training at a licensed school and have then passed a state-sponsored board examination. Given our close proximity to the University of Illinois Veterinary College and Parkland Community College, many of our support staff are currently attending veterinary or technician school.

Want to join our team? Visit our Careers section.

Get to know us. Explore our staff biographies and learn about the people who make our facility an excellent choice for your pet care needs.

paw Team Spotlight
Kara Spoerer
DVM Medical Director

Dr. Spoerer just started as the VCA Heritage Medical Director in 2020, but has been with the practice for 25 years. She completed her undergraduate and Veterinary Medicine degrees from the University of Illinois. She practiced small animal medicine in and around the Chicago suburbs for 2.5 years before moving back to Champaign in 1993. She joined our practice full-time in 1995.  

Her interests include surgery, dentistry, and ophthalmology within the practice, and hiking and travelling in her personal time. She has three children, two dogs, and one cat who keep her happy and busy.

Nicole Charleston
Certified Veterinary Technician Supervisor

Nicki was born and raised in Champaign. She is married and has three children. She graduated from the Parkland College Veterinary Technician program in 1992 and became licensed the same year. Nicki worked in Homewood, Illinois, for one year before returning home in 1993 to work at VCA Heritage Animal Hospital. She previously served as a foster person for the Champaign County Humane Society and continues fostering for many orphaned pets.

Veterinarians

Our veterinarians are a team of highly trained individuals dedicated to the health and well-being of your pets. Explore our veterinarians' biographies and learn about the individuals who make our hospital an excellent choice for your pet's care.

Administration

The hospital administration team consists of management personnel who oversee all staff members, hospital activities and the facilities. Together, they keep the hospital running smoothly, ensuring quality patient care and excellent client service. From the moment you check in, our administrative staff is here to deliver the best possible experience to you and your pet before, during and after your visit.

Client Services

We are committed to providing the best possible service and our Client Services team loves to exceed pet owner's expectations. Whether it's answering your calls, guiding you and your pet to the exam rooms or checking you in and out quickly, our Client Service representatives and Receptionists are dedicated to providing helpful client and patient support that raises the bar on customer service.
Come Care With Us
Our teams are united in our common purpose of taking care of the future of veterinary medicine.
Join Our Team