Veterinarians

Dr. Julie Harelson

Owner

Dr. Julie Harelson was born and raised in Louisiana, where she attended Louisiana State University. She graduated with her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 2001. After that she moved to Savannah and began working at a day practice. While working for day practice Dr. Harelson began moonlighting with the Emergency Clinic and quickly felt that it was her true calling. It was the unexpected case walking through the door, the mystery of each patient, and the chance to change a life that really appealed to her.

In 2003, Dr. Harelson was afforded the opportunity, and took it, to purchase the Emergency Clinic. She saw this as her chance to impart a sense of community, make the Emergency Clinic more approachable, and most of all more trustworthy. To this end, she works closely with Tabby Tales, Renegade Paws Rescue, and Red Clay rescue groups. She also strongly advocates spay and neuter procedures for our community pets.

Julie likes Great Danes, yoga, wine, Jeeps, and LOVES good food! She believes in treating people like they are family and fostering support within our team, both inside the clinic and out!

“GEAUX TIGERS!!!”

Dr. Debbie Barrett

Associate since 2005

Dr. Debbie has been a valued member of our veterinary team since 2005. With years of experience and a passion for providing exceptional care to animals, she has built strong bonds with both her patients and their families.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Debbie loves spending quality time with her children and her beloved Golden Retriever, Dug. She’s also an avid traveler who enjoys embarking on cruises to explore new destinations and relax with her family.

Dr. Debbie is dedicated to ensuring the health and happiness of your pets, and she looks forward to helping them thrive for years to come.

Dr. Janice Wiest

Associate since 2007

Dr. Janice has been an integral part of our veterinary team since 2007, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the practice. She has a particular passion for tackling complex medical cases, and her dedication to advancing animal health is evident in her thorough and compassionate care.

At home, Dr. Janice enjoys spending time with her Doberman, Ava, who keeps her active and inspired. Their bond reflects her deep love for animals and her commitment to understanding their needs.

Dr. Janice is devoted to providing top-notch care for every patient, ensuring they receive the attention and expertise they deserve.

Dr. Jamie Baker

Chief Of Medicine, Associate since 2015

Jamie was born and raised in Port Orange, Florida moving to Savannah in 2005 to play soccer for Armstrong Atlantic State University. After that she attended Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine with her clinical year at Louisiana State University. Dr. Baker has been practicing Veterinary Medicine in Savannah since 2015.

Dr. Baker enjoys the fast pace, surgical experiences, and being present for the families of our patients during difficult decisions and hard times.

The Baker family, consisting of Jamie, her husband, and their daughter, live on a small farm with their menagerie of over 30 animals. They enjoy their eclectic group that ranges from juveniles to seniors, and all sizes, ranging from 150 grams (the size of a hockey puck) up to 1000 pounds (yup a horse). In her free time Jamie enjoys traveling, scuba diving, and boating.

“I promise to provide care to your pet as if they are my own. I will always give you my honest opinion and hope this helps you to make the most informed decision during a difficult and stressful time. “

Dr. Jonathan Webber

Associate since 2021

Dr. Jonathan was born and raised in Savannah, Georgia. He graduated from Calvary Day School in 2005 and later earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Savannah State University. Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. Webber attended St. Matthew’s University in Grand Cayman, where he achieved a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine and a Master’s in Business Administration. He completed his clinical training at Mississippi State University before returning to Savannah in 2019 to begin his veterinary career.

Helping animals has always been Dr. Webber’s passion. He enjoys working with exotic animals, client education, preventative medicine, emergency medicine, and ensuring the health and happiness of all animals. Dr. Webber believes deeply in being a voice for animals that cannot speak for themselves.

In his free time, Dr. Webber loves being near the water—whether kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing in the sun with his dogs, family, and friends.

Dr. Katie Hill

Associate since 2022

Dr. Katie joined our practice in 2022 and has quickly become a favorite among our patients and their owners. A proud alumna of the University of Alabama (Roll Tide!) with a DVM from Auburn University (still Roll Tide!), Dr. Katie brings a passion for internal medicine and a love for building relationships with pets and their families.

When she’s not in the clinic, you can find Dr. Hill cheering on her favorite football team, watching Real Housewives, or enjoying her hobby of needlepointing. A fun fact about Dr. Hill is that all of her pets are named after the Beatles!!

Dr. Katie looks forward to working with you to keep your pets happy and healthy!

Dr. Andrew Horton

Associate since 2024

Dr. Andrew Horton, a proud Savannah native, brings a warm Southern charm to his practice. He earned his veterinary degree from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine and completed his clinical training at the University of Tennessee.

Dr. Horton is known for his unmatched compassion and dedication.

When he’s not in the clinic, Dr. Horton enjoys spending time on the water—his happy place—or cuddling with his two beloved cats, Stevie and Dolly. His commitment to treating every pet as if they were his own is a testament to his kind and loving nature.

We are excited to have Dr. Horton join us as he expands his expertise in emergency veterinary medicine. Your pets are in exceptional hands with Dr. Horton on our team!

Practice Manager

Jessica Monticelli

Joined Veterinary Medicine in 2012

Originally hailing from West Palm Beach, Florida, Jessica harbored an innate fascination for creatures of varied shapes and sizes. Whether frolicking along the coastline or trekking through forests, she perceived animals as embodying life’s essence: play, eat fresh food, rest, repeat. Several years later, she found herself rooted in Georgia, having relocated to Savannah post-high school and earning her degree from Armstrong Atlantic State University in 2013.

Her journey in veterinary medicine commenced at Animal Services, where she flourished in the surgery suite, deriving immense satisfaction from ensuring the well-being of every animal that crossed her path through treatment, vaccination, and compassionate care. Delving deep into the realm of diseases and diagnostic signs, she avidly expanded her knowledge. Progressing further, she embraced the opportunity to contribute to a local general practice, absorbing knowledge under the guidance of seasoned mentors. Recognizing her growing leadership qualities, she accepted roles in management, culminating in her eventual arrival at Savannah Veterinary Emergency Clinic, where her years of experience merged with her passion for emergency medicine.

Outside her professional realm, Jessica plays the role of a proud mother to three remarkable dogs, a munchkin cat, chickens, tortoises, and a delightful human son born in 2023. Her leisure time revolves around cherished moments with her husband and family, relishing activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, traveling, attending concerts and festivals, and simply reveling in the splendor of outdoor life.

Technicians

AMY, Veterinary Technician

BRITTANY, Veterinary Technician

KAYLEE, Veterinary Technician

BRIANNA, Registered Veterinary Technician

EMILY, Registered Veterinary Technician

JESS, Veterinary Technician

MONTANA, Veterinary Technician

KOURTNEY, Veterinary Technician

MYKALA, Veterinary Technician

PARKER, Veterinary Technician

HEATHER, Veterinary Technician

SAM, Veterinary Technician

ALEX, Veterinary Technician

AMANDA, Veterinary Technician

CECILA, Veterinary Technician

CYNDI, Veterinary Technician

MOLLY, Registered Veterinary Technician

RUSS, Veterinary Technician

ANGELA, Veterinary Technician

STEVEN, Veterinary Technician

YASMIN, Veterinary Technician

TAYLER, Registered Veterinary Technician

Support Staff

SILVIA, Kennel Assistant

ERIANNA, Receptionist

RHONDA, Receptionist