Where Expertise Meets Compassion

With 12 years of experience in veterinary medicine, Dr. Lauren MacDonald delivers compassionate, expert care to every patient at Willow Pet Hospital. Her interests in preventative medicine and surgical care reflect a deep belief in wellness and proactive treatment.

Dr. MacDonald went to Middle Tennessee State University for her undergraduate education. She earned her veterinary degree from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine and pursued advanced surgical training at Tufts University.

Growing up on a hobby farm in East Tennessee, she was immersed in the care of animals—from goats and cows to horses and dogs. This early connection sparked her lifelong passion for animals and shaped her perspective on compassionate, thoughtful veterinary care.

Known for her warm bedside manner, Dr. MacDonald builds trusting relationships with each client and pet—making visits as comfortable and supportive as possible.

When she’s not at the clinic, she enjoys hiking, camping, and outdoor adventures with her husband, two children and golden retriever, Bonnie. As a family, they love sports and often cheer for the Volunteers and the Bruins together. Dr. MacDonald believes that this active, nature-filled lifestyle keeps her grounded, energized, and connected to her veterinary calling.

Hailey is the first friendly face you will meet here at Willow. She is our receptionist and brings warmth, positivity, and genuine care to every client and patient she meets.

She began her career in veterinary medicine in 2020 and has experience both at the front desk and as a veterinary assistant. This gives her a well-rounded understanding of what pets and their families need to feel supported.

A true animal lover, Hailey especially identifies as a cat person and shares her life with three cats: Willow, Oliver, and Luna. They inspire her passion for helping families provide the best care for their furry companions.

Hailey is known for her kindness, her ability to put clients at ease, and the thoughtful energy she brings to each day. She takes pride in building meaningful connections and making every visit as comfortable and welcoming as possible.

When she is not at the hospital, Hailey enjoys getting lost in a good book, trying new recipes in the kitchen, watching movies, or gathering with friends and family for game night.

Originally from New York, Sydney moved to Charlotte at a young age before relocating to Raleigh, where she earned her B.S. in Biology in 2021. During this time, she rediscovered her love for animals, with a particular appreciation for wildlife preservation and zoological medicine.

She joined the veterinary field in February 2023, beginning her career as a receptionist and progressing into both veterinary assistant and leadership roles. Her experience spans a wide range of clinical tasks, including venipuncture, surgical monitoring, dental scaling, and radiology. Sydney takes great pride in preventative care and client education and is passionate about ensuring all clients feel supported and heard.

When she is not at the hospital, Sydney enjoys visiting thrift stores, reading, or spending time at her local pottery studio. She shares her life with four beloved fur babies: two cats, Ziggy and Moose, and two dogs, Zilla and Rae.

Sandy grew up in a small town in western New York, where her lifelong love for animals first began. At just 16, she started working in a small animal practice, originally aspiring to become a large animal veterinarian. She went on to attend SUNY Delhi, where she earned her degree and became a licensed veterinary technician.

Rather than pursuing veterinary school, Sandy followed her heart and bought her first horse, Dreamer—a decision that deepened her connection to the animals she loves. She continued working in mixed animal practice until 1998, when she relocated to Monroe, North Carolina.

Since then, Sandy has gained extensive experience in emergency and shelter medicine, and for the past 15 years, she has served as a dedicated Practice Manager in a small animal hospital. While her role has grown, she remains a veterinary technician at heart. Sandy is passionate about being a voice for her patients and ensuring they receive the highest quality care. Whether assisting in surgery, seeing technician appointments, or supporting her team throughout the hospital, she brings compassion and commitment to everything she does. She especially enjoys connecting with clients and helping them feel confident in the care their pets receive.

Sandy lives in Waxhaw with her husband, Matt, and their two children, Emily and Wyatt. Her home is full of life, shared with four dogs, two cats, twelve chickens, a horse, and a pony. In her free time, she enjoys riding her horse, tending to her chickens, and spending meaningful time with her family.