Dr. Ward
Veterinarian
Hello, I’m Dr. Michael Ward, the youngest of six children, born in southern New Jersey where I aspired to be a “rodeo star” and a veterinarian. Upon graduating from high school I moved to the Cowboy state of Wyoming to start college and to learn more about rodeo. After several bruises and broken bones, I decided that I would rather study hard and admit animals to the hospital instead of them putting me in there. I moved to the “Big Sky” country of Montana to get serious about my veterinary studies at Montana State University. In 1994, an opportunity arose to transfer to North Carolina State University to complete my studies. I took it and I have never looked back. I met my lovely wife, Kathy, who is also a veterinarian, while attending NCSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine. I graduated in 2000.
After graduation, I moved to Johnston County and I worked as a mixed animal veterinarian for the next eight years. In May of 2008, my family of four drove to Alaska. I was privileged to work for the summer with sled dogs, reindeer, bears, and musk ox and also to enjoy the wonderful sights that Alaska has to offer. This adventure along with many others allowed me and my family to complete our goal of “50 by 50” – we travelled to all 50 states by or before the time we were 50 years old!
I enjoyed participating in Boy Scout adventures with my son for many years as an Assistant Scoutmaster. My daughter and I like going on trail rides with our horses. My hobbies include traveling with my family, backyard farming (I call this “diesel therapy”), and being outdoors. My interest in chickens began as a child and I still proudly display the Cape May County 4-H Fair Best Egg Award which I won in 1986.
We purchased Johnston Animal Hospital in February 2009 from Dr. Booker, the hospital founder and long-time great veterinarian of Johnston County. I am serious about preventative health care and I believe in open communication with my clients about their pets. I enjoy challenging and complicated surgeries and difficult medical cases. I have fun meeting new people and talking to long-time friends during their appointments. Stop by to say hello, get a tour, and see some interesting “Rodeo Star” pictures.
One last thing… people always say, “You must have a lot of pets since you are a vet!” In our home we have two Brittany spaniels and a medium-haired kitty. On our farm, we have horses, cows, chickens, a periodic pig, and a kennel of foxhounds and beagles. Now you know what pets this vet has!
Education and Training
Bachelor of Science in Animal Science
Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine
Certificate of Excellence in Clinical Neurology
Certificate of Excellence in Clinical Ophthalmology
Human Animal Bond Certified
Fear Free Certified Professional
Companion Animal Laser Therapy Training – American Institute of Medical Laser Applications
AAHA’s Anesthesia Safety and Monitoring Guidelines Certificate
Member of the American Association of Feline Practitioners
QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program
Wood Badge Leadership Training
Dr. Kathy, CVBL
Hospital Administrator, Certified Veterinary Business Leader
Hi, I’m Dr. Kathy Ward. I’m Dr. Michael Ward’s wife and the Hospital Administrator of Johnston Animal Hospital. I was born & raised in Northeastern North Carolina. My educational background includes an Associate of Arts degree from Peace College, a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from NC State & a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine. Along with over a decade of experience as a Hospital Administrator, I have worked as a private practice veterinarian, an anatomy professor, and as a professional picture framer. I also enjoyed many years of homeschooling and several years of teaching as a children’s leader in Bible Study Fellowship. I love to teach! Being a lifelong learner is important to me. I became a Fear Free Certified Professional in 2016 and Heroes for Healthy Pets Certified in 2019. In 2023 I earned the designation of Certified Veterinary Business Leader. I value participating in a variety of continuing education classes regularly. This year I’m looking forward to giving back by serving among the first cohort of Alumni Mentors with the newly launched NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Mentorship Program.
Hobbies I enjoy are reading, gardening, raising laying chickens, spending time outside, & loving on our pets: 2 Brittany spaniels, 1 spoiled cat, & lots of farm animals. Our family loves to spend time together, especially traveling, and we achieved our goal of “50 by 50” – visiting all 50 states together by 50 years old. I love to learn new things and I try to frequently engage in novel experiences. Amidst my curiosity for fresh ideas & experiences, I am grounded in my relationship with God. My faith in Jesus is an integral part of my life.
Education and Training
Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts
Bachelor of Science in Animal Science
Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine
Certified Veterinary Business Leader
QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program
Veterinary Medical Laser Safety Officer Training – American Institute of Medical Laser Applications
Purina Daily Nutrition Matters Education Program
Controlled Substances Management in Veterinary Medicine
Attended Community Narcan Training
Dr. Parker
Associate Veterinarian
Hello my name is Dr. Parker. I’m a dedicated small-animal veterinarian originally from Hertford, North Carolina. I earned my undergraduate degree in biology with a concentration in evolution and ecology from East Carolina University, where I also worked as both a teaching assistant and a laboratory technician.
I went on to complete my veterinary education at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. My professional interests include cardiology, dentistry, surgery, and ophthalmology, and I’m especially passionate about continuing to grow in soft tissue surgery, ultrasonography, and internal medicine.
Outside of the clinic, I enjoy fishing, watching college football and baseball, attending concerts, and spending time with my wife and our dog, Maple.
When people ask why I love veterinary medicine, I always say I love this field because of the relationships I can build with my team, my patients, and my clients. I chose this profession because it gives me the opportunity to directly improve the lives of the people and pets in my community, while also allowing for lifelong learning and professional development.
Education and Training
Bachelors of Science in Biology with a focus on Evolution and Ecology
Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine
Jodee
Practice Manager
Hey y’all! My name is Jodee Langdon, I am the Practice Manager here at Johnston Animal Hospital. I originally joined JAH in 2017. I was born on November 1st and raised in Selma, NC on my family’s farm, Boswell Farms. I am an alumnus of North Johnston High, FFA, and the Johnston County 4-H. I spent 11 years showing livestock with the Johnston County 4-H. I started showing lambs, then transitioned to goats, cows, and lastly hogs. 4-H was a huge part of my life and is something I hope to continue into my children’s lives when they are of age! In 2014 I met the love of my life D.J. and we got married in 2017. We were blessed in 2019 with our son Finley, who is constantly keeping us on our toes with his passion for the outdoors, bugs, and dinosaurs. He also loves playing with his 4-legged sister Ellie who is a miniature Aussiedoodle and chameleon named Nikita. I’m just a southern girl who loves sweet tea, dogs, taking photos for my part-time business “Jodee Langdon Photography”, and spending time with my family!
Education and Training
Associate in Business Administration: Concentrated in Human Resource
QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program
AVMA Small Animal Restraint & Bite Prevention
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Effective Infectious Disease Control
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Understanding Infectious Diseases
Infection Prevention Leader Certified
Attended Community Narcan Training
Cytopoint on Point CSR Training Program
Stefanie
Head of Client Care | Blingual Team Member
Hi, my name is Stefanie Esquivel, I am the Head of Client Care at Johnston Animal Hospital. I was born & raised in Johnston County with my 2 older sisters and little brother. I graduated from Smithfield Selma High School class of 2021. Shortly after I went into the beauty field and received my Esthetician License. I don’t have any children but I do have 3 dogs (Charlie, Arlo, & Kazzan) and 1 parakeet (Peter) that keep me on my 10 toes. I’m also blessed to have my niece and 2 nephews that drive me crazy but love so much. They remind me every day to slow down and enjoy the moments. My favorite things to do in my free time are spend time with my family, travel, and exercise. I am very grateful to be a part of Johnston Animal Hospital and excited to see what the future holds for me.
Education and Training
QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program
Cytopoint on Point CSR Training Program
Sarah, CVT, RVT
Client Care
Hello, my name is Sarah Hahn. I am part of the client care team at Johnston Animal Hospital. I have been working with animals & their people (in and out of the veterinary world for over 25 years. I graduated from Vermont Technical College in 2000 and started working at a small animal hospital. In 2004, I became a certified veterinary technician in Vermont, and in 2022, I passed the exam in North Carolina to become a registered veterinary technician. I enjoy being able to help owners with understanding their pets’ world. Questions about a visit, medication, or diet… or just want to share some cute photos or stories… it’s all part of the bonds we have created within our team and your family.
I love the working and trusting bonds that people and animals can share. I have worked closely with my own dogs and a pet therapy group- going to schools primarily to support students and staff. I also worked closely with the Vermont State Police Canine Assoc. helping to maintain the overall health of my local K9s, as well as being a foster parent for their puppy program and a general volunteer for several of their public events.
I am the oldest of 5 kids and have always loved animals. Over the years, there have always been dogs and cats- but we snuck in the occasional fish, pollywogs, a parakeet, gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, a mouse, ferrets, a chinchilla, horses, and for 18-20 long hours, a donkey that did not like staying in our fence. In my down time, I enjoy reading, scrap booking, card making, sewing, and spending quality time with my family and pets.
Education and Training
Associates in Applied Sciences
Earned VT CVT in 2004
Earned NC RVT in 2022
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Effective Infectious Disease Control
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Understanding Infectious Diseases
QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program
Purina Daily Nutrition Matters Education Program
Cat Friendly Veterinary Professional
Controlled Substance Management in Veterinary Medicine
AVMA Small Animal Restraint & Bite Prevention
AVMA Bloodborne Pathogen Safety
Cytopoint on Point CSR Training Program
Nicki
Client Care
Hi, I’m Nicki! I’ve been working in veterinary medicine since 2015 and joined JAH in September 2025. I absolutely love supporting people and their pets. My husband, Randale, and I have been together since 2012. In 2023, we were blessed with our wonderful little boy, Deacon, who already shares my love for animals.
At home, we have a lively crew of rescues: Sophie, a Pit/Lab mix born in 2012; Cooper, a Basset mix born in 2015; Rusty, a Pit mix born in 2016; and Elenor, our beautiful long-haired cat born in 2022.
In my free time, I love being outdoors. However, I don’t have a green thumb, so you won’t catch me gardening, instead you will often find me outside enjoying a good book on my patio or spending quality time with my family.
I’m so excited to be part of the JAH family and look forward to caring for you and your furry loved ones!
Meagan, RVT
Registered Veterinary Technician
Hello! My name is Meagan McKeel, and I’m a Registered Veterinary Technician here at Johnston Animal Hospital. I was born and raised in Kenly, NC, and graduated from North Johnston High School in 2019. During that time, I was very involved in FFA and animal science classes, which confirmed my passion for working with animals from an early age.
After graduation, I briefly moved to Arizona before returning home to pursue my career in veterinary medicine. I earned my Associate’s Degree in Veterinary Medical Technology from Nash Community College in 2023 and became a Registered Veterinary Technician that same year. My experience includes nearly three years in emergency and ICU care, but I’m excited to return to my roots in general practice. I especially enjoy educating clients and helping pets live happy, healthy lives.
When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me traveling with my boyfriend, Kevin, we’ve been together since early 2021. Together, we’ve explored many states and have recently begun venturing into international travel.
I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a welcoming hospital that feels like family, and I look forward to meeting you and your pets!
Education and Training
Associate in Veterinary Medical Technology
Alania
Veterinary Assistant & RVT Student
Hello! I am Alania, and I am a full-time Veterinary Assistant at Johnston Animal Hospital. I originally joined the team in 2018 as an animal caretaker.
I was born in West Virginia, but have spent most of my life in Johnston County. After graduating from high school, I attended North Carolina State University and graduated in 2021 with majors in Animal Science and Agriculture Business Management. I decided to enroll in RVT (Registered Veterinary Technician) school in 2023.
My favorite thing to do at the hospital is helping with all the ICU patients and nursing them back to health. It brings me a lot of joy to help animals at their lowest and to see them walk out of here healthy again. I also enjoy using my skills in phlebotomy and lab diagnostics, as well as applying my education to everyday situations.
In my free time, I enjoy doing CrossFit, reading, watching movies, sewing/crocheting, and spending time with my husband, Bubba, our daughter, Avery, our Lab, Caine, and our Siamese, Smeagle.
Education and Training
Bachelor of Animal Science
Bachelor of Agriculture Business Management
Laser Therapy Training – American Institute of Medical Laser Applications
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Effective Infectious Disease Control
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Understanding Infectious Diseases
Selena
Veterinary Assistant & RVT Student | Bilingual Team Member
Hello! My name is Selena and I am a full-time Veterinary Assistant at JAH. I have been part of the team here since 2018 and I love helping the amazing veterinarians and team to take care of all of the wonderful pets that come to visit the hospital. I have been in the Smithfield community for most of my life and I graduated from Johnston Community College. I have three dogs named Chico, Cookies and Laguna. In my free time, I enjoy watching and playing volleyball, watching a movie, or being outdoors.
Education and Training
Associates in Sciences
Associates in Arts
Associates in Accounting
Laser Therapy Training – American Institute of Medical Laser Applications
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Effective Infectious Disease Control
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Understanding Infectious Diseases
Purina Daily Nutrition Matters Education Program
QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program
Certificate of Completion in Veterinary Assisting: Anesthesia and Surgical Assisting
Certificate of Completion in AAHA Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats
Janey, AVA
Approved Veterinary Assistant & RVT Student
Hi, my name is Janey Denton, I was born and raised in Carlisle, KY with my parents and older brother. I have always had a love for animals ever since I was knee-high to a grasshopper. Thanks to my dad I have learned quite a bit about animals including growing and providing crops for them. In KY I always had a farm full of animals; we had goats, chickens, ducks, cows, horses, donkeys, cats, and dogs. So, when I say I love animals, I love animals! My hobbies are hunting, fishing, and riding horses. I am very grateful to be part of Johnston Animal Hospital. Since working here, I have grown so much as a Veterinarian Assistant with the help of my team. I love helping care for the dogs and cats, and watching the sick ones nursed back to health. I earned my Approved Veterinarian Assistant certification in May of 2023, I am now looking forward to furthering my education and going to school to become a Registered Veterinary Technician. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me.
Education and Training
Approved Veterinary Assistant
Laser Therapy Training – American Institute of Medical Laser Applications
QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Effective Infectious Disease Control
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Understanding Infectious Diseases
Infection Prevention Leader Certified
Controlled Substances Management in Veterinary Medicine
Tim
Veterinary Assistant
Hello, my name is Tim Lavery and I am a full-time veterinary assistant at Johnston Animal Hospital. I was born and raised in northern New Jersey up until I left for college. When I moved down to North Carolina to attend NC State University, my immediate family decided to move down with me, and we began a new life change together!
While at school, I worked at the Equine Education Unit of NCSU where I learned to love horses and their management. During my senior year, I decided to add in small animal experience and began working in Creedmoor as a veterinary assistant. Since graduating in 2019, I have worked as a barn manager for the YMCA and returned to Creedmoor to continue to learn as much as I could in the veterinary industry.
I adore the opportunity to work closely with animals every day. Whether I am spending time connecting with clients or cleaning teeth during a procedure, I always like to have fun. I also pursue every opportunity to learn in-hospital so that I can improve my skills and value to others.
In my free time, I enjoy camping by the fire, lifting weights at the gym, and spending copious amounts of time with my family. Although I do not personally own any pets, I have access to 7 at any given moment, thanks to family ties. One day, I hope to get back into the equine field by owning a few of my own!
Education and Training
Bachelor of Science in Animal Science
Minors in Nutrition and Ag. Business
QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program
Purina Daily Nutrition Matters Education Program
Michelle
Pharmacy Assistant, Inventory, Cross Trained
Hi! My name is Michelle Fenske. I originally joined the team at Johnston Animal Hospital in 2013. My husband’s Air Force career took us to Fairbanks, Alaska for a few years, but as soon as we returned, I couldn’t wait to re-join the team!
I grew up on a small family farm in eastern Pennsylvania where my love for animals (especially goats) began. I attended college at Kutztown University and graduated in 2010 with a degree in sports management, professional writing, and public relations. I always dreamt of going into the sports media field; however, since my husband is in the Air Force, I had to find a career that I could do wherever they sent us. When the veterinary field first found me, it was the perfect fit. Since graduation, I have lived all over the country, spending time in Colorado, Florida, and Alaska. I love being a part of the Air Force community and getting to experience so many different places and adventures.
In my spare time, I love spending time with my husband, Eric; our daughters, Cara and Reya; and our golden retriever, Nora. I am a huge Philadelphia sports fan and watch every Eagles, Phillies, and Sixers game that I possibly can. I also enjoy reading, running, and spending as much time outdoors as possible.
Education and Training
Bachelor of Science in Sports Management, summa cum laude
Minors in Professional Writing and Public Relations
QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Effective Infectious Disease Control
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Understanding Infectious Diseases
Allison
Team Lead Animal Caretaker & Cross-Trained in Technician Assistant
Hey! My name is Allison Murray, I am the Team Lead in Animal Caretaker here at Johnston Animal Hospital. I started working here in June of 2023. I was born and raised in Kenly, NC my whole life. I graduated from North Johnston High School in 2023, I am currently going to JCC for my Associate in Science Degree. I have a wonderful, loving Shih Tzu named Yogi. He loves to play and snuggle all the time. Working as an Animal Caretaker comes with many perks. I would say being able to spend time with everyone’s animals, getting to know them better, and making them feel comfortable during their stay are the best parts about my job. I am the middle child between 2 older sisters and 1 younger brother. In my free time, I love to spend time with my family and just catch up with one another.
Education and Training
AVMA Bloodborne Pathogen Safety
AVMA Small Animal Restraint & Bite Prevention
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Effective Infectious Disease Control
Heroes for Healthy Pets Certificate of Completion in Understanding Infectious Diseases
QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program
Mina
Animal Caretaker | Bilingual Team Member
Hello! My name is Mina, and I’m an animal caretaker here at Johnston Animal Hospital. Animals have always held a special place in my heart. Growing up, my favorite part of visiting family was spending time with their pets. While I was raised with cats, I didn’t get to experience life with a dog until I moved in with my fiancé—now I’m lucky enough to be a proud dog mom as well! I adore all of my pets, and I’m dedicated to giving the same love and attentive care to every animal I have the privilege of looking after here.
In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, traveling, staying active at the gym, cooking, baking, and catching spooky or true crime podcasts. I also love going on walks with my fiancé and our dogs—their excitement when they hear the word “walk” never fails to make me smile. At the end of the day, cuddling with my cats and hearing their happy purrs is one of my greatest joys and a constant reminder of the love animals bring into our lives.
Education and Training
QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program