Kirk Vardeman
DVM, Owner
Dr. Vardeman has owned and operated Hiawassee Animal Hospital since 1989. After graduating from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in 1986, he practiced medicine for 3 years in Blairsville and Hiawassee before purchasing the practice. Originally from Gainesville, Georgia, he worked as a veterinary assistant from the time he was 14 years old. He fell in love with this area during his 2 years at Young Harris College. Kirk has been married to Susan for 42 years and they have 3 grown daughters, Amy, Taylor and Ansley. He enjoys reading, hiking, biking, running and skiing on water and snow. He loves traveling and spending time with his family (especially his grandson, Callahan, who was born in January 2023) and pets. He is an active member of Sharp Memorial United Methodist Church and the Lake Chatuge Rotary Club.
Taylor Vardeman Morton
Veterinarian
Dr. Taylor recently graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine and joined her Dad to work and learn “from the best.” Taylor is a graduate of Towns County High School and LaGrange College. Taylor enjoys working out, playing soccer, and spending time with friends and family. She lives with her husband Matthew Morton and their dog, Buddy, and two island cats, Harry and Ron.
Lynnette Bihl
Small Animal Veterinarian
Growing up, not only did Dr. Lynnette have a passion for animals, but she also loved science and had a knack for fixing things. This made a career in veterinary medicine the perfect fit! Over the years, she’s helped countless families and their pets get better, helped them travel together, performed lifesaving surgery, and nurtured the human/animal bond. Being a vet isn’t for everyone, but to Dr. Lynnette, the wiggles and nose boops make it all worthwhile!
Dr. Lynnette attended the University of Texas at Austin and graduated with a degree in Biochemistry. She then went on to attend Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine, where she earned her DVM degree. After spending several years in the Houston area, Dr. Lynnette’s husband retired, and the couple decided it was time to move again. They felt the mountains of north Georgia would be a great place to settle in and call home. Turns out she also found her new work home right here at Hiawassee Animal Hospital!
Clinically, Dr. Lynnette has a special interest in surgery, as it offers the opportunity to fix a problem and see immediate results. A mass is gone, a swallowed toy is removed, torn skin is back in place…it’s incredibly rewarding. She also enjoys watching puppies and kittens grow into adults and seniors and helping them remain as healthy as possible along the way. Lastly, Dr. Lynnette cherishes the relationships she’s built with her clients, their pets, and their families.
Outside of work, Dr. Lynnette lives with her husband, Tim, their blue heeler, Reba, and an ornery cat named Nicholas. Reba is very quiet for a heeler and loves to chase balls. Unfortunately, she also refuses to bring them back.
Ray Crain
Small Animal Veterinarian
Bio coming soon.
1,358
SLOPPY KISSES
4,858
BELLIES RUBBED
2,345
TREATS GIVEN
