Learn More About Our Veterinarian Team
Our commitment to personalized care sets Gardner Animal Hospital apart. We take the time to get to know you and your pet so we can provide the best possible treatment and advice. We’re here to answer your questions and address your concerns. Whether you’re a new or existing client, we invite you to visit us at Gardner Animal Hospital and experience the difference. Your pets will thank you for it!
If you have any questions about how we can care for your pet, please don’t hesitate to call us at
(334) 687-4722. Thank you!
Meet Our Veterinary Care Team
Spaying and neutering are crucial medical procedures that significantly improve your pets' well-being. Beyond positively impacting their health, these procedures play a vital role in managing the population of homeless pets, contributing to a healthier and more controlled pet community.
Dr. James A. Gardner, DVM
Veterinarian/Owner
Dr. James A. Gardner, owner of Gardner Animal Hospital, earned his Bachelor of Science in Animal and Dairy Sciences from Auburn University in 1979, followed by his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1983. In 1987, he moved to Eufaula and began Gardner Animal Hospital, where he has spent nearly four decades building lasting relationships with clients and providing quality, compassionate veterinary care.
Dr. Gardner is a strong advocate for preventative medicine, believing that proactive care and early detection are essential to helping pets live longer, healthier lives. His professional interests include soft tissue surgery, dentistry, and routine spay and neuter procedures. He incorporates surgical laser technology into his procedures to help minimize discomfort, reduce inflammation, and support a smoother recovery for his patients.
Outside of the hospital, Dr. Gardner enjoys CrossFit, duck hunting, water skiing, and spending time with his wife, Cici, family and grandchildren. He share his home with one pet, Elli, a Portuguese Water Dog with a spunky attitude!
With decades of experience and a genuine commitment to the well-being of his patients, Dr. Gardner remains dedicated to the personalized, trusted veterinary care that is the foundation of Gardner Animal Hospital for nearly four decades.
Charis Childers
Office Manager
Charis joined the Gardner Animal Hospital Team in 2021 and serves as the office manager. Originally from Texas, she and her husband made Eufaula their home following his retirement from the U.S. Army. Charis enjoys getting to know our clients and their pets while helping keep the hospital running smoothly.
Outside of work, she and her husband love traveling, spending time on Lake Eufaula, and tackling woodworking and home renovation projects together. She also enjoys bow-fishing, learning to golf, and making memories with family and friends. At home, life is never dull with her four-legged family, including their dogs, Ruby, Gus and Jack and their cat, Nick Fury!
Amanda Black
Veterinary Technician, L.V.T.
Amanda has been a dedicated member of the Gardner Animal Hospital team since 2008 and proudly earned her Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) credentials in 2024. She enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine, particularly diagnostic testing, dental procedures, surgical assisting and providing compassionate nursing care to critically ill or injured patients. Amanda has a special place in her heart for cats, especially those who need a little extra attention, patience, and specialized care. Her gentle approach and dedication to their well-being make her a wonderful advocate for even the most challenging patients.
When she's not caring for patients at the clinic, Amanda enjoys camping with her family, spending time on the lake and cheering her children on at their swim meets and other sporting events. Her love for animals extends well beyond the hospital, as she has quite the crew at home! Their four dogs - Boi, James Brown, Jimmy Dean, and Petee Pawblo - and five cats - Markle, Ralphie Jingle, Belle Noel, Eddie Spaghetti, and Voodoo Roodoo - definitely keep life entertaining!
Rhonda Griffin
Veterinary Assistant / Groomer
Rhonda has been a valued member of the Gardner Animal Hospital team since 1989, bringing decades of experience, dedication, and a genuine love for animals to our team. Her extensive knowledge of veterinary medicine, animal care, and agriculture has made her an invaluable resource to both her coworkers and our clients. Throughout the years at the hospital, Rhonda has enjoyed educating pet owners on the importance of preventative care and helping them make informed decisions about their pets' health. In addition to her work as a veterinary assistant, she also shares her talents as a groomer.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, grandchildren, and friends. An accomplished horse enthusiast, Rhonda also enjoys competing in Stock Horse, AQHA Ranch Horse Versatility, and Reined Cow Horse events with her Quarter Horses, Jack and Mouse.
Erica Welch
Veterinary Assistant
Born and raised in Texasville, Alabama, she joined the Gardner Animal Hospital team in 2025, bringing six years of experience in veterinary medicine. Erica has a passion for animal care and especially enjoys assisting with surgical procedures, performing diagnostic testing, and helping ensure every patient receives compassionate, quality care.
Outside of the clinic, she enjoys spending time outdoors kayaking, fishing, and camping with family and friends. She and her husband share their home with three dogs - Aldo, Hesna, and Frodo - and have quite the extending animal family, including Tux, their farm cat and five goats!
Grace Harper
Veterinary Assistant / Kennel Tech
Grace joined the Gardner Animal Hospital team in 2023 and has called Eufaula home for most of her life. One of her greatest joys at the clinic is welcoming new puppies and kittens! She has a special passion for helping pet parents navigate those important first visits, providing guidance and education to help their newest family members get started on the path to a long, happy, and healthy life. While she loves animals of all shapes and sizes, Labrador Retrievers hold a special place in her heart!
Outside of the clinic, Grace enjoys spending time with husband, family and four-legged companions. An avid horse enthusiast, she loves rodeos, horseback riding, and spending time outdoors. Her own animal family includes her dogs, Hazel and Oakley, along with her three horses and cats, Anakin and Darth Vader.
