Meet the Team at Hillcrest Animal Hospital
Meet the Compassionate Team Behind Your Pet’s Care
At Hillcrest Animal Hospital, our team is proud to provide compassionate, dependable veterinary care for pets and large animals in Poplar Bluff, MO, and the surrounding communities. Every member of our practice plays an important role in creating a professional, welcoming experience for our clients and thoughtful, high-quality care for the animals we serve.
We know that choosing a veterinarian in Poplar Bluff, MO is an important decision.
Pet owners want a team they can trust, and we work hard every day to build that trust through clear communication, attentive service, and a commitment to doing what is best for each patient.
As an AAHA-accredited animal hospital and a cat-friendly practice with separate entrances and dedicated cat and dog lobby areas, Hillcrest Animal Hospital is committed to delivering care in an environment designed with both pets and their people in mind.
A Team Built on Compassion and Professionalism
At Hillcrest Animal Hospital, our approach to care is guided by the values that matter most to our practice:
- Education
- Compassion
- Professionalism
- Motivation
- Adaptability
These values shape the way we work together and the way we care for every patient who comes through our doors. We want clients to feel informed, supported, and confident in the care their animals receive.
Our Veterinarians
Our veterinarians are dedicated to providing thorough, compassionate care tailored to the needs of each patient. Whether your pet is visiting for a routine wellness exam, diagnostic testing, surgical care, or ongoing treatment, our doctors are committed to helping you make informed decisions with confidence.
Dr. Kathryn Bell
Dr. Kathryn Bell, co-owner, graduated from the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine in 2014 and exclusively attends to small animal patients. Veterinary medicine is her passion. She is especially good at helping itchy patients and utilizing her exceptional surgical skills when appropriate. Dr. Kathryn is a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA) and Certified TCVM Palliative and End-of-life Practitioner (CTPEP). These additional certifications enable her to help patients with an integrative approach using the best of conventional medicine, but also incorporating holistic treatments when possible, to help patients enjoy a great quality of life.
Dr. Mason Bell
Dr. Mason Bell, co-owner, graduated from the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine in 2014 and mostly practices large animal medicine. Chances are, if you have a cow, horse, or other livestock in need of routine or urgent care, he will be the one to help. The haul-in facility was Dr. Mason’s brainchild, and he would be delighted to give you a tour.
Dr. Heather Hampton
Dr. Heather Hampton has worked in the veterinary medicine field since 2010, graduated from the University of Missouri CVM in 2019, and has a passion for preventive care medicine.
Dr. Erica Jarrett
Dr. Erica Jarrett is a 2024 graduate of the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine. She is proud to be a Southeast Missouri native from Doniphan and was happy to return home to practice veterinary medicine. In addition to wellness and preventative care, Dr. Jarrett enjoys working up internal medicine cases. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family on the farm, traveling, and enjoying Current River.
Taylor Spencer, DVM
Dr. Taylor Spencer, DVM, recently graduated from the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine in May 2026 and is proud to provide compassionate veterinary care through Hillcrest Animal Hospital. She takes pride in treating every patient with the same level of compassion and attention she would want for her own animals, while also building trust with both pets and the people who love them. Outside of the clinic, Dr. Spencer enjoys spending time with family, whether playing board games together or visiting the river.
Tara McDaid, DVM
Dr. Tara McDaid, DVM, graduated from the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine in 2026 and has been involved in veterinary medicine since high school. Over the years, she has worked in nearly every area of a veterinary hospital, including as a kennel attendant, receptionist, and veterinary assistant, giving her a well-rounded understanding of patient care and hospital operations. Dr. McDaid has a strong passion for surgery and enjoys learning and participating in new procedures whenever possible. Outside of veterinary medicine, she enjoys arts and crafts, especially printmaking and graphic design, and loves spending time on peaceful creek walks.
Working Together for Your Pet
Veterinary care is a team effort, and we believe the best outcomes happen when clients and veterinary professionals work together. From your pet’s first visit through every stage of life, our team is here to answer questions, provide guidance, and deliver care with professionalism and compassion.
We are proud to serve pets and animal owners in Poplar Bluff, Doniphan, Williamsville, Sikeston, Cape Girardeau, Corning, Pocahontas, and Jonesboro, as well as nearby communities.
Our Support Staff
Behind every great veterinary hospital is a dedicated support team helping make each visit run smoothly. At Hillcrest Animal Hospital, our staff members are an important part of the care experience, supporting our doctors, assisting patients, and helping clients feel welcome from the moment they arrive.
Get to Know Hillcrest Animal Hospital
When you choose Hillcrest Animal Hospital, you are choosing a team that cares deeply about the health, comfort, and well-being of the animals we serve. We are grateful for the opportunity to care for your pets and to support the families who trust us with them.