Meet Our Veterinarians in Blue Ridge, GA

Dr. Will Patterson was born and raised in Blue Ridge, GA, and is beyond excited to be the new owner and veterinarian at Cohutta Animal Clinic. He’s proud to be a “double-dawg,” earning both his Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Georgia in Athens. Dr. Patterson completed his undergraduate degree in just three years before entering vet school.

Following graduation, he knew he wanted to return to the Georgia mountains, so he packed up and came back home to Blue Ridge. While in school, Dr. Patterson gained diverse experience in both large and small animal medicine, but ultimately developed a passion for small animal practice, where he could work more closely with both pets and their families. His special interests include soft tissue surgery, dentistry, and preventative medicine.

Dr. Patterson previously worked in several small animal practices throughout North Georgia and looks forward to continuing to serve the pets and people of his hometown.

Outside of veterinary medicine, he enjoys beekeeping, raising Hereford cattle, gardening, and cheering on Georgia football. On fall Saturdays, if you don’t see him at the clinic, he’s probably watching the Dawgs play! He lives in Blue Ridge with his wife, Dr. Grace Murray Patterson (who you may see at the clinic too), and their three dogs and one cat.

In January 2025, Dr. Gantt earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. While studying in St. Kitts, he met his girlfriend, Angelica, who is also a veterinarian. During his time at school, he developed a strong interest in small animal surgery and cardiology. Outside of his studies, he enjoyed playing beach volleyball.

Dr. Gantt has long been familiar with the Blue Ridge area, having built a friendship with Dr. Patterson during his time at UGA. When he’s not at the clinic, you can find him exploring local restaurants, hiking, or cheering on Georgia football (Go Dawgs!). He and Angelica share a dog and a cat, both rescues from their time in St. Kitts.

Dr. Gantt is thrilled to have joined Cohutta Animal Clinic and looks forward to providing excellent care for the community’s beloved pets.

Dr. James Vick is originally from Armuchee, GA, and has loved visiting the Blue Ridge Mountains since childhood. He’s thrilled to now serve the pets and people of this Appalachian community. Dr. Vick earned his Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from Berry College in 2020 and graduated Cum Laude from Lincoln Memorial University with his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2024. During vet school, he was inducted into both the Alpha Chi and Phi Zeta honor societies.

He gained experience in mixed animal medicine during his clinical training and developed strong interests in orthopedic surgery, wildlife, and avian medicine. A Master Falconer since 2013, Dr. Vick was selected for a 4-week externship in avian surgery and medicine at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital.

He looks forward to continuing to expand his skills in practice. When he’s not at the clinic, Dr. Vick enjoys outdoor adventures and playing live music with bands around North Georgia.

Rachel has been a veterinary technician for 17 years. She attended school in Rochester, Minnesota, as a student in the Veterinary Technology Program. She received an AAS degree and moved to Florida, where she received her veterinary technician certification. While in Florida, she was selected to go to Australia and represent the veterinary technician profession for Rotary—an experience she will always remember.

Rachel has now been in the North Carolina/Georgia area for just over 2 years and is loving it. She has a Shih Tzu named Schatzie, a rescued Shih Tzu named Fritzie, and a cat named Cricket. She is grateful for helping pets and their families along her journey and is looking forward to meeting you and your furry children.

Justin has been a Vet Tech for over 20 years! He is passionate about his job and loves working with both animals and their humans. When Justin isn’t working, you will most likely find him fishing, hunting, camping, or enjoying anything outdoors.

Justin has two biological children and a blended family with three more. He is very knowledgeable and personable, and can help you with all of your pet needs.

Christy grew up in Ellijay, GA, and graduated from Gilmer High School. She has one daughter named Paisley and a fiancé. She also has two chihuahuas named Gracie and Goliath, plus a couple of kitties.

Christy has been a veterinary assistant for 4 years and has always been passionate about animal care and health. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, fishing, and hunting.

Nikki grew up in Ellijay, GA, and now lives in Ball Ground with her wife, Rosa, their five dogs, and a bunny. She has been a veterinary assistant for six years. Nikki is passionate about animals and one day hopes to own her own rescue.

Outside of work, she enjoys crafting, reading, and spending time with her family.

Jaden has worked as a veterinary assistant for three years and has gained valuable experience in that time. She lives in Murphy, NC, with her family and pets, which include a Great Dane named Buddy and a kitty named Ashy.

In her spare time, she enjoys being on the lake and hanging out with her boyfriend and friends. She’s always had a passion for helping animals.

I am Chloee Cantrell. I have worked in Vet-med for 4 years, and currently in school to become an RVT. I have 2 fur babies who go everywhere with me. For fun, I love to travel, kayak, and hike!

My name is Katherine, and I am married to Lenneth (his name is Lenn, but Lenneth is better).  We have been together for 6 years.  We have 7 cats and a rat dog. He builds houses, and that’s what brought us to NC 5 years ago. I love it here, but I wish there were a Trader Joe’s. We like to go rafting, hiking, you name it, and yes, we bring it.

Teresa Hughes comes to us as one of our CSRs and is also a native of Union County. She started her vet career at a young age. She resides with her husband, along with 6 dogs and 2 cats, here in Fannin County. When she isn’t working, she enjoys the outdoors, riding the dirt roads, hiking, and discovering new waterfalls.