Avenue AnimalĀ
Hospital
š 615-553-4855
āļø news@aahtn.com
š 615-553-4855
Care That Comes From the Heart
Avenue Animal Hospital is a locally owned, non-corporate team deeply committed to compassionate, AAHA-accredited care. We treat every patient like a member of our own family, ensuring your beloved companions receive the advanced medicine they deserve in a warm, welcoming environment.
Our Veterinarians
Our AAHA-accredited veterinarians lead with compassion, advanced medical expertise, and a shared commitment to providing the highest standard of animal healthcare in Mt. Juliet.
Dr. Knarr grew up in St. Charles, MO. She hasĀ always loved animals, and this comes from her mom as she fostered many cats in their home growing up. She spent 4 years in Hawaii while earning her bachelor's degree in marine biology from Hawaii Pacific University. During undergrad she volunteered at an animal hospital on the weekends and found her passion in veterinary medicine. Dr. Knarr worked as a veterinary assistant for 2 years in between undergrad and vet school to gain valuable experience. She moved to East TN for veterinary school and received her DVM from Lincoln Memorial University. After graduation she moved to Mt Juliet with her boyfriend, their 2 dogs, 2 cats, and leopard gecko. Dr. Knarr's professional interests include soft tissue surgery, dermatology, feline medicine, and preventative care. She loves to spend time outside and enjoys hiking and kayaking. She also loves dog sports and competes in FastCAT with her Doberman, Kona. She is so excited to join the team at Avenue and is looking forward to meeting future clients and providing compassionate care for the beloved pets in our community!
Dr. Kristina Knarr
Dr. Nicole Harris
Veterinarian/Owner
From a young age, Dr. Nicole Harris knew she was meant to be a veterinarian. Her early experiences caring for animals sparked a deep passion for medicine and problem-solving, making a career in veterinary care the only path that ever felt right.Ā In 2012, Dr. Harris founded Avenue Animal Hospital to offer modern diagnostics and personalized care to local pet owners. Sheās especially passionate about ultrasound, dentistry, and building lasting relationships with clientsābelieving that great veterinary care starts with genuine connection.
Dr. Harris lives in the area with her husband Eric, a software engineer, and their two children. Their home is full of personality, thanks to their four pets: Basil, a Doberman Pinscher, Petunia Rose, a French bulldog with a big attitude and two affectionate black-and-white cats, Saki and Squish.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Harris enjoys reading, cooking, music, and time around horses. Sheās also an avid traveler who loves exploring new cultures and perspectives around the world.
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Bethany Tyler
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Bethany Tyler grew up in Sistersville, West Virginia, and knew from an early age that caring for animals was her passion. Surrounded by pets at homeāand often visiting her grandmotherās cats, Sylvester and Bonnieāshe began shadowing a local veterinarian in eighth grade, setting her path in motion.Ā She earned her undergraduate degree from Freed-Hardeman University in 2015 and her veterinary degree from the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Tyler has a strong interest in internal medicine and ophthalmology and finds the greatest reward in seeing her patients recover and thrive.Ā She credits her success to the support of her husband, family, and her late dog Sherlock, whose memory remains close to her heart. Dr. Tyler lives in Mt. Juliet with her husband Dylan, their daughter Emory, and two cats, Leo and Orbit. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cross-stitching, and crafting.
Dr. Brittany Dawes
Associate Veterinarian
Originally from South Florida and raised in High Point, North Carolina, Dr. Brittany Dawes has always had a deep love for animals. Growing up, her home was full of petsāfrom dogs and cats to a chinchilla, hamsters, reptiles, and fish.Ā She earned her bachelorās degree in Cell and Molecular Biology from East Carolina University, where she also worked as a veterinary technician, gaining hands-on experience before attending veterinary school at Auburn University (War Eagle!). Her clinical interests include dentistry, feline medicine, internal medicine, preventative care, and client education.Ā Outside of work, Dr. Dawes enjoys spending time with her three cats, relaxing with family and friends, and diving into a good book. She joined Avenue Animal Hospital in the summer of 2023 and is excited to continue building connections with clients and their pets.
From a young age, Dr. Nicole Harris knew she was meant to be a veterinarian. Her early experiences caring for animals sparked a deep passion for medicine and problem-solving, making a career in veterinary care the only path that ever felt right.Ā In 2012, Dr. Harris founded Avenue Animal Hospital to offer modern diagnostics and personalized care to local pet owners. Sheās especially passionate about ultrasound, dentistry, and building lasting relationships with clientsābelieving that great veterinary care starts with genuine connection.
Dr. Harris lives in the area with her husband Eric, a software engineer, and their two children. Their home is full of personality, thanks to their four pets: Basil, a Doberman Pinscher, Petunia Rose, a French bulldog with a big attitude and two affectionate black-and-white cats, Saki and Squish.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Harris enjoys reading, cooking, music, and time around horses. Sheās also an avid traveler who loves exploring new cultures and perspectives around the world.
Dr. Nicole Harris
DVM, Veterinarian/Owner
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Kristina Knarr
Dr. Knarr grew up in St. Charles, MO. She hasĀ always loved animals, and this comes from her mom as she fostered many cats in their home growing up. She spent 4 years in Hawaii while earning her bachelor's degree in marine biology from Hawaii Pacific University. During undergrad she volunteered at an animal hospital on the weekends and found her passion in veterinary medicine. Dr. Knarr worked as a veterinary assistant for 2 years in between undergrad and vet school to gain valuable experience. She moved to East TN for veterinary school and received her DVM from Lincoln Memorial University. After graduation she moved to Mt Juliet with her boyfriend, their 2 dogs, 2 cats, and leopard gecko. Dr. Knarr's professional interests include soft tissue surgery, dermatology, feline medicine, and preventative care. She loves to spend time outside and enjoys hiking and kayaking. She also loves dog sports and competes in FastCAT with her Doberman, Kona. She is so excited to join the team at Avenue and is looking forward to meeting future clients and providing compassionate care for the beloved pets in our community!
Meet Our Exceptional Support Staff
The dedicated heart of our clinic, ensuring your furry family members receive professional and compassionate care every single day.
Staci
With over 19 years of experience in the
veterinary industry, Linda became part of
the Avenue Animal Hospital family in SeptemberĀ
2016. Her connection with Dr. Harris goes back
to 2006, when they first worked together at another
local clinic. Their longtime friendship made the opportunityĀ to reunite professionally especially meaningful.Ā Linda began as one of our receptionists and now serves as Practice Manager, keeping day-to-day operations running smoothly so our doctors and staff can focus on what matters mostāpatient care. She values the lasting relationships she builds with our clients and their pets. OutsideĀ of work, Linda loves spending time with her seven grandchildren, who are her pride and joy. She and her husband Darrell enjoy traveling, relaxing on the lake, and quiet moments with
a good book. At home, they share life with their Chihuahua, Charlie.
Linda
Practice manager
Jennifer joined Avenue Animal Hospital in 2013, bringing with her over 30 years of experience in the veterinary field. Known for her attention to detail and commitment to excellence, sheās built strong, lasting relationships with clientsāsome of whom travel over two hours just to see her.
Ā Jennifer is a true perfectionist who takes pride in providing top-notch care. Her calm, confident approach makes her a natural with pets, and she treats every patient with the same care and attention sheād give her own.Ā Her dedication, precision, and compassion makes Jennifer an
invaluable part of our team.
Jennifer
Groomer
Lead Licensed Veterinary Technician
Ā Ā āStaci began working with Dr. Harris in 2009 as a kennel technician and worked her way up to lead technician. She became a Licensed Veterinary Medical Technician (LVMT) in 2016 after graduating from Vol Stateās veterinary technology program. Sheās passionate about senior pet care, critical care, and educating pet owners. A strong advocate for rescue animals, Staci shares her home with seven dogs. OriginallyĀ
āfrom Mt. Juliet, she now lives in Gladeville with her husband and their two sons, Jacob and Eston. When sheās not at work, youāll likely find her cheering on her boys at the ball field.
Staci
āāMargie joined our team in October 2018, bringing over 20 years of experience in animal care. With a background as both a veterinary technician and receptionist, and a degree in Animal Science, she brings deep knowledge and a lifelong passion for animals to everything she does.Ā Margie thrives on building strong relationships with both pets and their people. Her warmth and experience make her a valued part of our front desk team.Ā She and her husband Tony live in Lebanon, TN, and cherish time with their four grandchildrenāBlakely Grace, Presley Kate, Walker Ray, and Weston Ryder. At home, Margie is surrounded by her own furry family: two dogs and five cats.
Lead Receptionist
Margie
"Every paw print tells a story I'm honored to be part of."
"Patience and treats go a long way in healing."
"Precision meets compassion in our operating suites."
"Care isn't just a job; it's our commitment to your family."
Customer Service Receptionist
Kenna
Kylie
Ashtyn
Customer Service Receptionist
Tracie
Kenna
Customer Service Receptionist
"A gentle touch makes all the difference."
Born and raised in Nashville, TN, Kenna has 8+ years of experience in animal care and graduated with a Bachelor's in Horse Science at MTSU. She grew up with dogs and cats and spent summers horseback riding with her family in Illinois. She is very passionate about the humane and compassionate care of all companion animals and believes each and every pet makes irreplicable differences in the lives of those around them. Kenna has dogs, cats, and reptiles that she loves and cares for at home and has a huge passion for all living creatures and the outdoors. Outside the clinic, you can find her fishing, birdwatching, horseback riding, hiking, antiquing, or taking her dog, Strider, for walks around the lake. She is very much looking forward to building relationships with our clients and pets and is grateful for her place at the Avenue front desk.Ā
"Loving every patient as if they were my own."
Kylie joined our team in September 2024, bringing over 10 years of experience in the veterinary field. We are very excited that Kylie is a part of our Avenue team.Ā She is passionate about building strong relationships with both clients and their pets, which is a key part of what she loves about her work.Ā
In 2023, Kylie and her family made the move to Nashville, where they now live with their three pets: Maeve, Nemo, and Miss Priss. Outside of work, Kylie enjoys reading and is always on the lookout for great book recommendations.
Kylie
Customer Service Receptionist
"A gentle touch makes all the difference."
"Advocating for those who have no voice."
Veterinary Assistant
Tracie
Ashtyn
"Gentle care for every companion."
Working as a veterinary receptionist at Avenue Animal Hospital allows me to combine my love for animals with my passion for helping people. I truly enjoy getting to know our clients and their pets and being part of the special bond they share. Whether Iām celebrating happy milestones, offering a listening ear during difficult times, or helping answer questions along the way, I strive to make each client feel supported and cared for. It is incredibly rewarding to walk alongside our families through every stage of their petsā lives and to be part of a team dedicated to providing compassionate care.
Tracie joined Avenue Animal Hospital
in October 2018, bringing over 30 years
of experience in the veterinary field. For
her, this work isnāt just a jobāitās a calling.
Sheās especially passionate about fear-free handling and caring for senior pets, always striving to make every animal feel safe and loved.
Tracie is a valued part of our team, known
for her deep compassion and expertise.
Sheās married to her husband Keith and
has two children. At home, she cares for
six pets: four cats, a Golden Retriever,
and anĀ Irish Setter.
In her free time, Tracie enjoys riding motorcycles with Keith and cheering
for the Crimson Tide.
Customer Service Receptionist
"Excellence in veterinary care is our standard."
Kenna was born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, and has more than eight years of experience in animal care. She earned her Bachelorās degree in Horse Science from Middle Tennessee State University and has had a lifelong passion for animals. Growing up with dogs and cats, she also spent many summers horseback riding with her family in Illinois, further strengthening her love for animal care.
Kenna is dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized service and believes every pet plays a unique and irreplaceable role in the lives of their families. At home, she enjoys caring for her dogs, cats, and reptiles and has a deep appreciation for all living creatures and the outdoors.
When sheās away from the hospital, Kenna enjoys fishing, birdwatching, horseback riding, hiking, antiquing, and taking her dog, Strider, for walks around the lake. She looks forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and their pets and is proud to be part of the Avenue Animal Hospital team.
Tracie joined Avenue Animal Hospital in October 2018, bringing over
30 years of experience in the veterinary field. For her, this work isnāt just
a jobāitās a calling. Sheās especially passionate about fear-free handling
and caring for senior pets, always striving to make every animal feel safe
and loved. Tracie is a valued part of our team, known for her deep compassion and expertise. Sheās married to her husband Keith and has
two children. At home, she cares for six pets: four cats, a Golden Retriever, and anĀ Irish Setter. In her free time, Tracie enjoys riding motorcycles with Keith and cheering for the Crimson Tide.
Veterinary Assistant
Customer Service Receptionist
Keri
"A happy pet is our greatest reward."
"Loving every patient as if they were my own."
"Advocating for those who have no voice."
"Excellence in care for every patient."
Kasey
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Born and raised in Gladeville, Kasey is a Licensed Veterinary Technician and a proud graduate of the Vol State Vet Tech Program, where she also served as president. Her passion for animals runs deep, and her compassion is felt by everyone around her. Kasey says sheās living her dream as a veterinary technician, and weāre lucky to have her on our team. She shares her home with six petsāYota, Chevy, Jackson, Delilah, Daniel, and Gilbertāand loves taking her dog to the lake, biking, hiking, and exploring new places. Above all, Kaseyās proudest role is being mom to her sweet two-year-old son, Henry and adorable twins Lola and Jimmy.Ā
"A happy pet is our greatest reward."
Trinity graduated from Western Kentucky University with a bachelorās degree in Agriculture and Animal Science and is currently continuing her education while preparing to apply to veterinary school. Her love for animals began at a young age and has grown into a passion for providing compassionate care and improving the health and well-being of every patient she meets.
One of the most rewarding parts of Trinityās job is seeing pets recover and return home happier and healthier after receiving the care they need. She enjoys building relationships with both patients and their families and is dedicated to making every visit as positive as possible.
Outside of the hospital, Trinity enjoys expressing her creativity through painting and playing the piano. She shares her home with four dogs and a turtle, who inspire her every day and remind her why she chose a career devoted to helping animals.
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Keri joined Avenue Animal Hospital in February 2020, eager to be part of a team dedicated to helping pets live their best lives. She has a strong passion for veterinary care, with a special focus on special needs animalsāa calling inspired by her own beloved pet who requires extra attention.
Keri is also a proud mom to her two-year-old son, Walker, who brings joy to her every day. In her free time, she enjoys watching movies, crocheting, needlepoint, and spending time with her family. Sheās grateful to be part of the Avenue family and continues to grow in her role.
Stasha
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Stasha has always had a deep love for animals and knew early on that she wanted to care for them. She earned her bachelor's degree in agriculture from UT Martin in 2018 and went on to become a Licensed Veterinary Technician. Since then, she has been dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care to every patient that she cares for. She lives in Lebanon, TN with her husband and their two beloved dogs. In her free time, Stasha enjoys reading, scrapbooking, and leading Paws & Praise, a pet parent support group at her local church. Stasha is proud to be able to make a difference in the lives of pets and their families.Ā
Ā
Aubrey
Veterinary Assistant
Born and raised in Mt Juliet, AubreyĀ graduated from Mt. Juliet High in 2011 and earned her degree from Volunteer State in 2016. She became a Licensed Veterinary Medical Technician in 2019. Her journey began in 2014 when she shadowed Dr. Harris at Avenue Animal Hospital, later completing her clinical rotations there. With nearly 12 years in
the field, Aubrey has a passion for emergency care, surgeryāespecially dental proceduresāand clinical pathology. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, cooking, fostering kittens, concerts, and cheering on the Titans, Gators, and Predators. She lives with her husband, Danny, and their three pets: Rajha, Draco, and Pongo.
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Amanda
āāāAmanda grew up on a farm surrounded by cattle and horses, where her love for caring for animals began at an early age. Over the years, that passion has extended to all kinds of petsāfrom cats and dogs to rabbits and hamsters. Today, she shares her home with a lively group that includes her dog, three cats, reptiles, as well as chickens and quail. Outside of caring for animals, Amanda enjoys spending her time reading and working on a variety of crafts. Her lifelong dedication to animals and her creative spirit makes her a valued part of the team.
"A happy pet is our greatest reward."
"Reliable care for your peace of mind."
"Compassion is at the core of everything we do."
"Excellence in care for every patient."
Trinity graduated from Western Kentucky University with a bachelorās degree in Agriculture and Animal Science and is currently continuing her education while preparing to apply to veterinary school. Her love for animals began at a young age and has grown into a passion for providing compassionate care and improving the health and well-being of every patient she meets.
One of the most rewarding parts of Trinityās job is seeing pets recover and return home happier and healthier after receiving the care they need. She enjoys building relationships with both patients and their families and is dedicated to making every visit as positive as possible.
Outside of the hospital, Trinity enjoys expressing her creativity through painting and playing the piano. She shares her home with four dogs and a turtle, who inspire her every day and remind her why she chose a career devoted to helping animals.
Trinity
Veterinary Assistant
Born and raised in Gladeville, Kasey is a Licensed Veterinary Technician and a proud graduate of the Vol State Vet Tech Program, where she also served as president. Her passion for animals runs deep, and her compassion is felt by everyone around her. Kasey says sheās living her dream as a veterinary technician, and weāre lucky to have her on our team. She shares her home with six petsāYota, Chevy, Jackson, Delilah, Daniel, and Gilbertāand loves taking her dog to the lake, biking, hiking, and exploring new places. Above all, Kaseyās proudest role is being mom to her sweet two-year-old son, Henry.
KaseyĀ
Licensed Veterinary Technician
"Gentle care for every companion."
"Treating every pet with love."
Rhett Butler
āIn Memoriam
Rhett Butler was a part of Dr. Harris'
family since 2006 and also a part of
each person's life that has ever worked
at Avenue Animal Hospital. He was always
up front and greeted everyone that came
through our doors with his spunkiness
and wonderful personality. When he
wasn't saying hello to you or laying on
the keyboard while helping our
receptionist's out, then you could find
him walking around the hospital taking
care of our technicians. Sadly,Ā due to
his health conditions, we had to say
goodbye to this precious baby in
January 2019.Ā Ā
Athena
āIn Memoriam
This precious girl technically belonged to Staci, our Head technician, who was lucky to have been her momma for 14 years. Athena was here to greet our clients and patients each and every day. Her sass, spunk and overall personality made you fall in love with her from the minute you met her.Ā Ā She was the Queen of the clinic and did her job well. Her favorite things were snacks and bossing people around.Ā We all lovedĀ her so much and will miss her dearly. She will forever be in our hearts. 1/12/2024
Ā Ava-Nu
āIn Memoriam
Ava was part of Avenue Animal Hospital since opening in 2012. She was the official greeter of the practice and when she was not walking around helping the technicians in the back, you could find her sleeping in her favorite window sill. Sadly, due to age and a returning tumor, the doctors and staff at Avenue decided to lay Ava to rest in September 2017.
"Dr. Crusty Rusty"
Crusty Rusty came to Avenue Animal Hospital originally for his routine neuter and to take a look at a bad neck laceration. Following his surgeries, Rusty was hospitalized with us for two months, where the entire hospital staff soon fell in love with his big, grumpy face. Following is recovery, he returned to the shelter. Our own Dr. Erkman adopted Rusty and was officially named Dr. Crusty Rusty Erkman by the hospital staff. Although Dr. Erkman is no longer with us, we are certain that "Crusty Rusty" is living his best life in the Big Apple!
"Compassion is at the core of everything we do."