OUR TEAM
Dr Elizabeth Ermel Shrode
Prior to opening her hospital, Dr. Ermel Shrode spent several years practicing small animal emergency medicine and surgery, and large animal ambulatory services. She is passionate about surgery, critical care, and internal medicine, and enjoys educating clients on wellness and preventative medicine. Dr. Ermel Shrode has a particular affinity for geriatric animals of all species and strives to improve quality of life through nutrition, pain management, and rehabilitation. She has the ability to work seamlessly and interchangeably with the livestock producer on improving genetics, daily gains and creating superior meat and dairy products, and also work with smaller hobby farmers who have pet goats, sheep, pigs and cows. Dr. Ermel Shrode resides on her farm in Brooksville, FL where she and her family manage a Simmental/Angus cow-calf operation. She also owns working ranch Quarterhorses, along with two donkeys named Emmitt and Dusty, a menagerie of large breed dogs, and two rescue cats who patrol the barns.
About Us
What is Hickory Hill Veterinary Services
At Hickory Hill Veterinary Services, we deliver personalized veterinary care built around the bond between people and their animals — with long appointments, thorough diagnostics, and same-day access when it matters most. Every patient, whether they have four paws or four hooves, receives the full attention of a veterinarian who knows your name and follows up after every visit.
Our vision is to be the most trusted mixed-animal practice in Central Florida — a place where livestock producers and pet owners feel genuinely known and cared for, and where private veterinary medicine sets the standard for what great care looks like.
We are one of the only mixed-animal practices in Central Florida, caring for companion animals and livestock alike. We keep appointments long, pursue advanced diagnostics, and see our own urgent cases — because we believe every animal deserves a veterinarian who goes deep, not just through the door. Our large animal haul-in facility in Brooksville allows us to provide overnight and critical care for cattle, horses, and small ruminants.
EXCEPTIONAL CARE & SERVICE
ABOUT THE TEAM
At Hickory Hill Veterinary Services, we are committed to delivering top-notch veterinary care for your beloved pets. Our compassionate team is always eager to assist with any questions or concerns you may have, and we genuinely enjoy connecting with our clients to make you and your furry companions feel at ease. From our front desk staff to our experienced veterinarians and dedicated support staff, we work in harmony to provide exceptional service at every stage of your pet's healthcare journey.
Sandra
Sandra is a technician of 18 years, with a passion for animal care. With experience in critical care, general practice, and shelter medicine, she's dedicated to improving the lives of animals in need. With 7 dogs and 2 cats of her own, she considers herself a foster fail. Sandra's motto? There's always room for one more… especially if they have four legs and a furry face. Her home is a testament to her dedication, filled with love, laughter, and the occasional purr or bark.
Lyn Kirkman
Lyn Kirkman is a veterinary technician student with a Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Genetics from Oklahoma State University. She has extensive experience working with both large and small animals and has developed a strong interest in large animal and equine medicine, rehabilitation, and preventative care. Outside of her studies and clinical work, Lyn devotes her time to caring for her rescue horses, Goose and Tyler, whose resilience and companionship continue to inspire her commitment to advancing compassionate, high-quality veterinary care for all animals.
Brynn
Brynn was born in southern Illinois and moved to Florida as a teenager. She has always had a love for animals. She previously owned two horses and competed in showjumping with both. Brynn is currently a student at the University of South Florida earning her Bachelor of Science in Biology with an animal concentration. Post graduation, she plans to further her education and pursue her dream career of becoming a veterinarian. Brynn has been blessed with opportunities to work with both large and small animals. She loves to gain knowledge each day and use it to help others. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her rescue cat, line dancing with friends, and growing in her faith.
