Meet Our Team
Dr. Dana Thomas
Veterinarian
Dr. Dana was called to the veterinary profession from a very young age. Her first words as a child were “Hi Cocoa,” as she popped out her pacifier to greet their family German shepherd in her birthplace of Gainesville, FL. Returning to her father’s native city of New Orleans where she grew up, she developed a strong love of animals, a deep desire to help care for them, and was encouraged by her family in her pursuits of a career in veterinary medicine. Dr. Dana had many pets ranging from ferrets and birds to cats and dogs that taught her the importance of their health care and instilled in her a sense of responsibility and appreciation for all animal friends, big and small.
Dr. Dana attended her undergraduate studies in Massachusetts at Amherst College and completed her DVM degree at Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine in Indiana before returning home to Louisiana to practice small animal medicine. Dr. Dana finds the most joy in caring for each of her patients as if they were her own and bonding with clients through education about their pets and a shared desire to help them live happy long lives.
When she’s not at work she loves playing with her energetic 5-year-old son, tending to her flock of chickens, and caring for her 2 dogs, Bean and Bailey-Mae, along with her 4 house-panthers Bosco, Luna, Jazpurr, and Whisker, and her ball python, Dartagnon. She savors the outdoors, especially anything having to do in/on/ or around the water and particularly loves kayaking the bayous and lakes that adorn our southern Louisiana landscape. Spending time with family and friends keeps Dr. Dana grounded as do her yoga and meditation practices.
Crystal Kidder
Office Manager
Years in Practice: 17
Hi, my name is Crystal Kidder. I have been employed with Atchafalaya Animal Clinic since 2005. I am a graduate of Berwick High School and attended Young Memorial. I am married to Chris Kidder and together we have two beautiful children (Kaylee and Brendan). I also have four dogs. My hobbies include camping, boating, shopping, spending time with family and friends, and traveling places I have never been.
Caitlin Sargee
Receptionist
Hi my name is Caitlin Sargee. I have been employed with Atchafalaya Animal Clinic since 2018. I am married to Christian Sargee and we have two children. We also have three dogs, Kimber, Henry, and Willow Grace. My favorite part about my job is that I get to help clients give their pets high quality care. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and going ride in the boat.
Jewel Ackman
Lead Veterinary Technician
I've been a vet tech for 18 years. It's been filled with every emotion from laughter to tears. What I do is not just about caring for pets but helping their people as well. I love learning and facing challenges that engage my brain, but I hate surprises (lol). My hobbies include different art mediums from pencil to paint, handcrafting, reading, gardening, and being outdoors. What I enjoy most is hanging out with family, friends, and my fur babies."
Andrea Ackman
Receptionist
Hi my name is Andrea Ackman! I have been with Atchafalaya Animal Clinic for almost 3 years. I have two cats, Ghost and Sage, and four children who I adore. I enjoy what I do because I love being able to create a great experience for pets and their owners. Making people smile is what I do! I believe that positivity goes a long way.
Kelsey Landry
Veterinary Technician
Hi, my name is Kelsey! I'm 29 years old. I have two amazing girls, ages 9 and 10. I also have a puppy and an iguana. I enjoy spending time outdoors, mud riding, fishing, and just being with friends and family. Ever since I was little it has been my dream to have a job that involves caring for animals. Although I am new to this profession, I have learned so much in a short amount of time. It is so fulfilling helping animals that are sick or injured. I was truly blessed with this opportunity to help. I love my job!
Kimberly Babin
Technician Assistant
Bio coming soon!
