Full-Service Veterinary Hospital in Charlotte
We offer a comprehensive range of services including wellness care, vaccinations, dental care, surgeries (both soft-tissue and orthopedic), spaying/neutering, urgent care, in-house diagnostics, and end-of-life care.
Our Goal
Our goal is to be your partner in pet parenthood.
Great Location
Best Care Animal Hospital is your one-stop shop for exceptional veterinary services for cats and dogs in Charlotte, Matthews, Indian Trail, Mint Hill, Ballantyne, Pineville, and the surrounding areas.
Our Team
Our dedicated team cares for you and your pet
Dr. Sunil Kakarla
DVM, PH.D, Owner
Dr. Sunil Kakarla, an experienced and compassionate veterinarian in Cary, NC, grew up in India. After graduating from the College of Veterinary Medicine in India, he practiced as a companion animal veterinarian for five years in a metropolitan city in India. He moved to the United States in 2005 with a passion for practicing high-quality veterinary medicine in an advanced setting. During that process, he pursued his MS and Ph.D. in a renowned lab at Marshall University in West Virginia.
As a graduate student, Dr. Kakarla performed cutting-edge research and had several high impact publications to his credit. While pursuing graduate studies, he simultaneously completed the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE) in 2010.
As a graduate student, Dr. Kakarla performed cutting-edge research and had several high impact publications to his credit. While pursuing graduate studies, he simultaneously completed the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE) in 2010.
Soon after this accomplishment, he began volunteering at several local animal hospitals. He completed his clinical experience program and obtained his license to practice in the US the same year.
In 2011, after graduating with a doctoral degree, he joined a small animal practice in Durham/RTP where he established a huge clientele and treated about 6000 to 7000 pets per year.
With his continued passion to provide the best quality veterinary care, he joined the state-of-the-art Walnut Street Animal Hospital in June 2016. As a veterinarian in the RTP area of NC, he strongly believes in quality care for pets and in being available to his patients when needed.
Sunil Kakarla is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and has special interests in dermatology and soft tissue and orthopedic surgery, as well as emergency medicine. Dr. Kakarla is married and has a son and a daughter. He enjoys spending quality time with his family, including his 1-year-old Golden-Doodle, Brownie, and a 4-year-old Poodle, Milky. He enjoys serving his community by actively helping rescue groups and shelter pets, and in his free time, he plays volleyball.
In 2011, after graduating with a doctoral degree, he joined a small animal practice in Durham/RTP where he established a huge clientele and treated about 6000 to 7000 pets per year.
With his continued passion to provide the best quality veterinary care, he joined the state-of-the-art Walnut Street Animal Hospital in June 2016. As a veterinarian in the RTP area of NC, he strongly believes in quality care for pets and in being available to his patients when needed.
Sunil Kakarla is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and has special interests in dermatology and soft tissue and orthopedic surgery, as well as emergency medicine. Dr. Kakarla is married and has a son and a daughter. He enjoys spending quality time with his family, including his 1-year-old Golden-Doodle, Brownie, and a 4-year-old Poodle, Milky. He enjoys serving his community by actively helping rescue groups and shelter pets, and in his free time, he plays volleyball.
Akhil Thummala
Associate Veterinarian
After graduating from the College of Veterinary Science in India, I practiced as a small animal vet in metropolitan cities for two years and moved to the United States. While working on a master's in hospital administration, I simultaneously pursued a career in small animal practice. I specialize in providing comprehensive and personalized veterinary care for dogs, cats, and other beloved pets. My approach is rooted in empathy and communication, ensuring that both pets and their owners feel comfortable and well-informed throughout the healthcare journey. I strive to create a positive and trusting environment where every pet receives the attention and care they deserve.
Sarah Van Staalduinen
Administrative Director
Sarah is an NC State graduate with double majors in Animal Science and Applied Nutrition. She has lived with animals her entire life and has always had a special place in her heart for them. She has been with the company since 2019, and she loves her job. Not only does she have the opportunity to meet new people and pets on a daily basis, but she also gets to help those fur babies stay happy and healthy with their families. Her favorite things to do outside of work include spending time with her furry kiddos; two dogs named Ochi and Denali, and two cats named Juniper and George. When she’s not at work, you can find her hiking with her dog, or taking part in any other activities in which she can include them.
Caitlin O’Neil
Client Coordinator
Hello! My name is Caitlin, and I have been with Walnut Street Animal Hospital since 2017. I started out as a receptionist and after being with this practice for a year, I was promoted to Manager and transferred to our sister location, Capital Boulevard Animal Hospital. I absolutely loved the experience of opening a new clinic and getting acquainted with all of the rescues. I am excited to start my new role as Client Coordinator with the company. I have always loved working with clients and making sure the owner and furbaby have a positive experience. In my free time, I am with my 2 human kiddos as well as my own furbabies.
Vanessa Girich
Receptionist
Vanessa has worked at this hospital for almost two years. She has her own pet, a big, extra-large bully named Bubba. She is a huge animal lover and will always be happy to help your pet.
Cheyenne Rowell
Veterinary Assistant
I am Cheyenne. I have two dogs, Ace and Harley. I have been in the veterinary field for 3-4 years now, and I hope to be able to help you and your pet.
Kayla Styles
Veterinary Assistant
I have been in the veterinary field as a tech for 13 years. I absolutely love it! Fun facts: I have three dogs, one cat, and three chickens. I love dog training and my Doberman, and I participate in sports and show.
Kennie
Veterinary Assistant
Hello! My name is Kennie, currently a Vet Assistant at Best Care Animal Hospital. I have a dog named Mako, he is a Yorkie/Dachshund mix, I trust Best Care with him and his allergies. I love helping pets and doing what I can, and Mako is definitely my inspiration!
Mya Gammell
Veterinary Assistant
I am 20 years old and I have been working with animals for about 2 years. I have 2 dogs, 4 cats, and 2 gerbils at home.
Our Clients
Happy and healthy pets
You’ve Come to the Right Place
High-quality veterinary care in Charlotte
Best Care Animal Hospital provides comprehensive range of services for cats and dogs in Charlotte, Matthews, Indian Trail, Mint Hill, Ballantyne, Pineville, and the surrounding areas.