PictureDr. Cory Sechrist
Dr. Cory Sechrist is originally from Cana, VA where he developed a passion for veterinary medicine at a young age.
After graduating from The University of Virginia’s College at Wise with a Bachelor’s of Science degree, he attended Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine and attended Auburn University for his clinical studies.
Dr. Sechrist moved to the Hickory area in 2018 with his wife and their three horses, Sheza, Ruth and Shadow.
​His professional interests include the treatment of dogs and cats with an emphasis on surgery and internal medicine.
In his free time, Dr. Sechrist enjoys horseback riding, camping and working on his farm.
PictureRenae Canales - Receptionist


​Renae held various positions in the medical field for the last 5 years until she realized vet med is where she was meant to be. She has 2 fur babies, Yota and Yeti that are her world. She grew up with a multitude of farm animals, goats, chickens, and, horses being her favorite. Her hobbies include napping, cooking, going to the beach and spending time with her family and friends. She is extremely happy she made the transition to work at Bethlehem Animal Hospital
PictureShawna Millsaps - Veterinary Assistant



Shawna started her career in the veterinary field in 2012. She received her certification as a certified veterinary assistant in 2011.
She currently is pursuing an associates degree as an Registered Veterinary Technician.
She resides in Alexander County with her family. She has 3 dogs, 1 cats, and 2 birds. Shawna is very passionate about her career and loves working with animals of all species. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and furbabies.
PictureShannon Cook - Veterinary Assistant


Shannon has been an Alexander County resident most of her life. She attended CVCC and graduated in 2003 with an assistant teaching degree then again in 2005 with an electrocardiogram technician licensure.
She has found that veterinary medicine has been a very rewarding career and she enjoys it very much. She has 4 dogs, 1 cat, and a rabbit. She enjoys spending her free time with her family and going to the beach.
PictureLaurel Alas - Veterinary Assistant



Laurel is a proud "fur-momma" to her cat, Fiona, and her dogs, Anita, Koko, and Meeska.  She loves caring for the patients at Bethlehem and enjoys working with the awesome staff!
PictureKodie Townsend - Veterinary Assistant



Kodie went to Fred T Foard high school and currently studies veterinary technology online. She has been fortunate enough to be raised on a farm where they raised, broke, and rode quarter horses. She also has 2 furbabies of her own, Demon; an energetic german shepherd/husky mix and Meeko; a beautiful nut-ball blue tick coonhound. She also has 9 scaly friends as well.