Your friendly neighborhood animal hospital since 1989.
When you bring your pet to Hiawassee Animal Hospital, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of a staff that is capable and compassionate. Our doctors emphasize preventive care and client education. We take the time to listen and answer your questions to address all of your pet’s needs. We treat your pet like part of our family.
HAH has been your friendly neighborhood animal hospital since 1989 when Dr. Vardeman took over the practice which he had been part of since it opened in 1987. For over 30 years, he has treated the pets, horses, cows, goats, sheep, llamas and other critters of Towns County. He is joined by part time associates, Dr. Roche and Dr. Smiley, who see clients on a regular basis. He will be joined by his daughter, Taylor, as a full time associate in 2022.
Meet our team
Kirk Vardeman
DVM, Owner
Dr. Vardeman has owned and operated HIawassee Animal Hospital since 1989. After graduating from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in 1986, he practiced medicine for 3 years in Blairsville and Hiawassee before purchasing the practice. Originally from Gainesville, Georgia, he worked as a veterinary assistant from the time he was 14 years old. He fell in love with this area during his 2 years at Young Harris College. Kirk has been married to Susan for 38 years and they have 3 grown daughters, Amy, Taylor and Ansley. He enjoys reading, hiking, biking, running and skiing on water and snow. He loves traveling and spending time with his family and pets. He is an active member of Sharp Memorial United Methodist Church and the Lake Chatuge Rotary Club.
Taylor Vardeman
DVM, Associate
Ms. Vardeman is completing her veterinary training at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in St. Kitts and Nevis. She is a graduate of Towns County High School and LaGrange College. She plans to join her Dad in Hiawassee upon graduation from Ross to learn “from the best.” Taylor loves spending time on the beaches of St. Kitts and with her rescue island cat, Ronald. Taylor enjoys working out, playing soccer, and spending time with friends and family.
Julia Sutton
Office Manager
Julia has been with Hiawassee Animal Hospital from the first day of operation over 30 years ago. A native of Towns County and graduate of TCHS, Julia started at Bell Creek Animal Hospital in 1987 and continued with Dr. Vardeman at HAH. Julia is a Master Cosmetologist who received her degree from North Georgia Technical College and owned a hair salon in the 1980’s before her time in the Veterinary industry. Julia is married to Wayne for 35 years and has two children Anderson and Anna. They have 14 chickens, Captain Jack, Margaret, Minnie and Mickey. She enjoys gardening, hiking, fishing, boating and kayaking. She is a member of McConnell Memorial Baptist Church.
Amber Taylor
Veterinary Technician
Amber has been working at Hiawassee Animal Hospital for 15 years, over half of her life, starting out as part time kennel help. Amber has become an accomplished vet tech and office receptionist over the years as a valued member of the team. Amber graduated from Hayesville High School and attended Young Harris College for a year. She is married to Blake and has two children. Amber’s home is affectionately know as “The Taylor Zoo Crew” because she has 9 dogs, 4 cats and 32 chickens. Amber enjoys camping, hammock time, and late night dance parties on the trampoline with her kids.
