Sharon Acker, LVT
Practice Manager / Licensed Veterinary Technician
Growing up with dogs, cats, and all sorts of farm animals, Sharon knew from a very young age that her passion for animals would be her life’s work. In the early years, it was 4-H and FFA that fueled Sharon’s passion, but as she grew older, she began to get more serious about her career aspirations. While she initially set out to become a vet, she quickly discovered that veterinary technology was her true calling.
After earning her bachelor’s degree in animal science from Texas A&M, Sharon’s life took her on an unexpected path, leading her from her home in rural Texas to southern California where she landed a job as a veterinary assistant at a small animal practice. A few years later, Sharon returned to her Texas roots with plenty of hands-on experience and a veterinary technician license.
Having worked with Dr. Carter in the mid-90’s, Sharon joined Manor Veterinary Hospital in June of 2009. Dr. Carter needed a manager and Sharon was seeking a great private practice, so the timing could not have been more perfect! Thanks to a career spanning over three decades, Sharon considers it a true blessing to have experienced entire lifespans of pets and the people who love them. Clinically, she has a special interest in assisting with surgery and working with critical care patients.
Outside of work, Sharon lives on a five-acre farm in Elgin with her husband, Daniel, her 16 year old cat Noah, and an assortment of other animals. When she’s not busy wrangling the livestock or making sure the clinic is running smoothly, Sharon enjoys reading, tending her succulents/cactus, hiking, and spending time with Daniel, her children Lauren and Nathaniel, and her extended family. Her most memorable event to date was her recent five-day hiking trip in Asheville, NC, where she experienced the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains and was able to raft the French Broad River.
Katelyn
Position coming soon
Katelyn used to be a kennel tech and gained hands-on experience prior to starting here.
Taylor Harpst
Veterinary Technician
Hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, Taylor entered the veterinary industry a bit later in life than many of her colleagues. In 2014, after several years in the culinary world, she decided to trade in her apron for a chance to pursue her other passion: animals. Turns out, it was one of the best decisions she’s ever made!
Prior to joining the Manor Veterinary Hospital team, Taylor got her feet wet working as a kennel assistant for a clinic in Belton. From there, she worked her way up—first to receptionist, then eventually technician. Professionally, Taylor loves learning new things and building long term relationships with clients and their cherished animal family members.
Outside of the clinic, Taylor is happily married to her high school sweetheart, Tim. Together, they share four pets, including a chocolate lab named Charlie, an Irish wolfhound mix named Asha, and two kitties: Odin and Gus. In her spare time, Taylor enjoys painting, tie dying, cooking, listening to music, and caring for her houseplants.
Ja’Keem Gourdine
Position coming soon
Ja’Keem has been around animals his whole life from helping/working rodeos
Johanna (“Joey”) Kearsley
Position coming soon
Joey has always been curious about and fascinated by animals.
Samantha Ward
Receptionist
Growing up, Samantha had many pets, all of whom were special to her. It was her dog, Chico, however, who truly made an indelible mark on her heart. Chico could always seem to sense when Samantha needed a little extra love and was there for her through many moments of need. When Chico succumbed to an illness, Samantha vowed that she would one day find a way to help other pets in his honor.
Prior to joining the Manor Veterinary Hospital in April of 2022, Samantha had spent several years working in a call center. She was eager to step into a role that would not only be more fulfilling but would also allow her to get her foot in the door to the veterinary world. In her current role as receptionist, Samantha enjoys meeting new people and playing a part in helping sick pets feel better.
Outside of work, Samantha is happily married with one daughter. Their family is made complete with five fur babies, including four cats (Tinker Bell, Kane, Gohan, and Valkyre), and a dog named Finn. When she’s not busy manning our front desk or spending time with her family (two-legged and four), Samantha enjoys reading and being outdoors.
Mercedes Medina
Receptionist
A native Austinite raised in Pflugerville, Mercedes joined the Manor Veterinary Hospital team in August, bringing her passion for animals and a warm, caring nature. Having worked in the animal field before, she was excited to find a place where she could continue doing what she loves. Recently certified as a veterinary assistant, Mercedes is already looking ahead to earning her veterinary technician license.
One of Mercedes’ favorite parts of her job is interacting with patients and their owners. She finds joy in comforting clients and seeing the relief on their faces after a smooth visit. Whether it’s a wiggly puppy or a curious kitten, every day brings new experiences and special moments that fuel her dedication to her work.
At home, Mercedes’ heart is full, thanks to her lively pack of fur babies. Her cats, Keba and Nirvana, are her loyal snuggle buddies. Keba, despite his senior status, still enjoys a spirited game of fetch, while Nirvana, the diva of the house, has quickly become part of the family. Her dogs, Shadow, Marky, and Molly, each bring their own unique charm—Shadow and Marky may stir up some mischief, but tasty treats quickly win them over, and Molly, though sweet, never hesitates to voice her opinions.
When she’s not caring for animals or working toward her goals, Mercedes can often be found at the gym, exploring her hobbies, and cherishing the adventures she shares with her pets.
1,358
SLOPPY KISSES
4,858
BELLIES RUBBED
2,345
TREATS GIVEN
