Meet the Team

Dr. Kathy Haywood

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

Dr. Kathy Haywood’s journey in veterinary medicine began on the farm where she was raised, inspiring a lifelong passion for animal care. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from North Carolina State University before continuing on to the NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine, where she received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM).

After three years of practicing in Randolph County, Dr. Haywood found her professional home in Montgomery County. For the past 33 years, she has been a dedicated veterinarian at Montgomery Animal Clinic, where she leads with both expertise and compassion. She has a particular interest in dermatology and enjoys the challenges and rewards of veterinary surgery. Dr. Haywood credits the clinic’s outstanding staff and loyal clients for making her work deeply fulfilling.

Outside the clinic, Kathy enjoys traveling and staying active through fitness. She is proud of her daughter, Addie, who is currently in graduate school, and she shares her home with her beloved dog, Kona.

Dr. Brenda Yercheck

Relief Veterinarian

Bio Coming Soon!

Dr. Rebecca Goldbach

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

Dr. Rebecca Goldbach grew up in Chapel Hill, NC, and has called Raleigh home for many years—a place she truly loves. She earned her Bachelor’s degrees in Biology and Animal Science before completing her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at North Carolina State University.

With a strong passion for surgery, particularly orthopedic procedures, Dr. Goldbach has trained alongside board-certified surgeons in both soft tissue and orthopedic surgery. She has successfully performed a wide range of surgical techniques and is deeply committed to making high-quality, affordable surgical care accessible to pet owners. Her favorite part of the process is guiding families through recovery and seeing pets return to health.

Dr. Goldbach has practiced in both general and emergency veterinary medicine, continually building and refining her surgical expertise. Her well-rounded experience and genuine care make her a trusted provider among clients and colleagues alike.

Outside the operating room, Dr. Goldbach enjoys spending time with her friends and family, especially on beach getaways. She is passionate about traveling, cycling, running, and cooking. At home, she’s kept busy by her three rescue dogs—Finley, Hudson, and Apollo—and her cat, Mufasa.

Mitzi Pritchard

Practice Manager

Mitzi Pritchard has been a cornerstone of Montgomery Animal Clinic for over four decades. After earning her degree from Central Carolina Community College, she began her career as a Registered Veterinary Technician. Her passion for animal care, combined with a strong interest in business, led her to pursue a degree in Business Administration, paving the way for her transition into practice management.

Now in her 44th year with the clinic, Mitzi brings a wealth of experience, deep community ties, and a genuine love for both longtime patients and the newest additions to the clinic’s pet family. Her dedication to the clinic’s daily operations and team success continues to shape the exceptional care clients have come to expect.

Mitzi lives in Biscoe with her husband, Gary. They have two sons and are proud grandparents of two. Their home is shared with four dogs and one cat. Outside of work, Mitzi enjoys gardening, spending time with her family and friends, and being active in her church and local community.

Heather

Registered Veterinary Technician

Heather has been a Registered Veterinary Technician since 2001 and brings 29 years of experience in the animal care field. She joined Montgomery Animal Clinic in 2016, where she plays an essential role in supporting both patients and clients.

Heather has a special interest in addressing behavioral concerns and nutritional questions, and she finds great satisfaction in helping pet owners better understand and care for their animals. Her calm, knowledgeable approach makes her a trusted resource among clients and colleagues alike.

Outside of the clinic, Heather enjoys spending time in nature. Whether hiking, kayaking, or camping, she’s often outdoors with her loyal dog, Roanoke. At home, she also cares for three cats, a horse, and two donkeys—testament to her lifelong love of animals.

April

Registered Veterinary Technician

April joined Montgomery Animal Clinic in 2010 after earning her degree from Central Carolina Community College. As a skilled Registered Veterinary Technician, she brings dedication and care to every patient she sees.

April lives in Montgomery County with her son, Arthur, who shares her love for animals. At home, she also cares for Thorn, her 8-year-old bearded dragon. In her free time, April enjoys reading and exploring the outdoors through hiking.

Her calm demeanor and attention to detail make her a valued member of the team and a comforting presence for pets and their families.

Hope

Certified Veterinary Assistant

Hope has worked at Montgomery Animal Clinic for 4 ½ years, starting as a kennel attendant. Having an eagerness to learn, she continued her education at RCC, obtaining her certification in Veterinary Assisting, and she now works as a Veterinary Assistant. She is currently enrolled in the Veterinary Technician program through Penn Foster. Hope is cross-trained, so in addition to her assisting duties, you may find her filling in up front in the reception area, in the kennel area, or grooming. Hope lives in Biscoe. She enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, and listening to podcasts. She has four dogs: Riya, Ewok, Honey, and Lucy.

Rene

Receptionist

Rene’s love for animals and dedication to customer service make her an invaluable part of the Montgomery Animal Clinic team. She joined the clinic in 2019 and brings over 20 years of experience in customer service, always ensuring that clients feel welcomed and well cared for.

Rene resides in Stanly County with her husband, Dave, their dog Allie, and cat Tiny. She enjoys spending quality time with her family, whether by the pool, on the lake, or simply relaxing at home. With two daughters and two grandchildren, Rene considers every moment with her loved ones a blessing.

Her friendly and approachable nature ensures every client has a positive experience from the moment they walk through the door.

Erika

Receptionist

Erika has called Montgomery County home since she was 8 years old and has been a part of the Montgomery Animal Clinic team since 2019. She loves the daily connections she makes with both people and pets, cherishing the memories and relationships built along the way. Having been around animals her whole life, Erika finds joy in the opportunity to work with them every day.

She is a proud mom to two boys, Raiden and Kasen, and their dachshund, Opie. Erika enjoys spending time with her family, making new memories, and embracing the excitement of new adventures together. Her boys think it’s pretty amazing that her job involves helping animals and getting to “pet them all day.”

Her friendly demeanor and genuine love for animals make her a favorite among clients and their pets alike.

Crystal

Kennel Attendant

Crystal’s love and compassion for animals led her to Montgomery Animal Clinic shortly after graduating from West Montgomery High School in 2001. Over the years, she has become an integral part of the team, caring for the pets that come through the clinic.

Now residing in Moore County with her husband and two boys, Crystal enjoys life on their small farm, where they have cows, chickens, two cats, and a dog. In her spare time, she loves spending quality moments with her family and enjoys a friendly game of pool.

Her nurturing spirit and attention to detail make her a dedicated and valued member of the clinic staff.

Jodi

Kennel Attendant

Jodi joined Montgomery Animal Clinic in 2023, driven by her deep love for animals and a strong desire to provide the best care possible. She earned her Vet Assistant certificate from RCC and a Zookeeper Assistant certificate from Animal Behavior College, with plans to become a veterinary assistant in the future.

At home, Jodi shares her life with six furry companions: Charlie, Teddy, Bandit, Toga, Nami, and Ace. Her dedication to animal welfare and her caring nature make her a wonderful asset to the clinic team.

Kona

Certified Good Baby

Meet Kona! Born in December of 2016, Kona became a cherished member of Dr. Haywood’s family in October of 2018. She received basic training at Highland Canine and has since become a beloved presence around Montgomery Animal Clinic. You’ll often find Kona lounging in the lab or patiently sitting by the treat jars, eagerly awaiting her next snack.

Kona has a soft spot for newborn kittens and puppies, and her friendly, loyal nature makes her a clinic favorite. Each day, she greets the staff with happy wags, bringing joy and warmth to everyone she meets.