Dr. James A. Gardner, DVM
Veterinarian/Owner
Dr. James A. Gardner, owner, graduated from Auburn University in 1979 receiving his Bachelor’s of Science in Animal and Dairy Sciences. He then graduated from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1983 with his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. Following his graduation in 1983, he and his wife, Anne Gardner, moved to Eufaula in 1987 when they purchased Gardner Animal Hospital. As Dr. Gardner’s commitment to well-care has grown so has his understanding that it is more cost-effective to prevent disease rather than treating life-threatening conditions. Dr. Gardner’s special interests include veterinary surgical procedures: soft tissue surgeries, dental prophylaxis, and routine spays and neuters. Dr. Gardner currently performs all of his surgical procedures with a surgical laser. The laser therapy helps speed recovery time, increases mobility, reduces post-surgical inflammation and better manages pain than older surgical practices. Outside of work, Dr. Gardner enjoys CrossFit, duck hunting, water skiing, and spending time with his grandchildren and family on Lake Eufaula. Dr. Gardner has three dogs, Sydney and Ellie, both Portuguese Water Dogs and Floyd, a Labrador Retriever.
Charis Childers
Office Manager
Charis joined the clinic in 2021 and is the clinic office manager. She and her husband are originally from Texas and after her husband’s retirement from the Army, they made Eufaula their home. Charis and her family have a passion for archery. She and her husband are both archery coaches while their three children shoot competitively. She also enjoys going to the lake, bowfishing, traveling as well as spending time with her friends and family. Her family has four dogs, Ruby, Rory, Gus and Jack as well as a cat, Nick Fury.
Amanda Black
Veterinary Technician
Amanda has been employed with Gardner Animal Hospital for over 11 years as a veterinary technician. She enjoys performing diagnostic tests, dental cleanings, surgical assisting and providing nursing care to critical or injured patients. In her infrequent spare time, she enjoys camping with her husband and three children, spending time on the lake and hanging out with her friends. She has four cats named Crump, Belle Noel, Markle, and Ralphie Jingle as well as two dogs, Boi and Jimmy Dean and two rabbits.
Rhonda Griffin
Veterinary Technician and Groomer
Rhonda has been a veterinary technician here since 1989, totaling to 33 years of dedication to Gardner Animal Hospital. Rhonda is also Gardner Animal Hospital’s groomer. She makes pets enjoy every minute of their spa day. She enjoys assisting in surgery and educating clients on the benefits of preventative medicine to better the overall health of the animals. She attended ABAC and her agriculture knowledge is a great asset to GAH. She enjoys spending time with her family, grandchildren and friends and spending time outdoors. When time allows Rhonda enjoys competing in Stock Horse, AQHA Ranch Horse Versatility and Reined Cow Horse classes with her Quarter Horse, Jack.
Sara Hester
Veterinary Technician
Sara recently moved to the Eufaula area from Thomasville, Georgia and joined the Gardner Animal Hospital team. She was born and raised in Cairo, Georgia. Sara has been a veterinary technician for over three years. She enjoys phlebotomy, performing dental cleanings, and assisting in surgeries. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her fiancé and playing piano. They have 4 dogs and 3 cats.