Comprehensive Veterinary Care in Matthews
At Best Care Animal Hospital, you’ll find more than standard veterinary services. As a trusted veterinary provider in Matthews, we deliver complete medical care for both dogs and cats in a welcoming and modern facility. Our hospital is designed to keep pet owners well-informed while ensuring every pet feels safe, comfortable, and cared for during each visit.

Our Mission
Our goal is to be a veterinary team you can depend on, providing reliable care and helpful guidance to support your pet’s health and well-being throughout every stage of their life.
Convenient Matthews Location
Located in Matthews, Best Care Animal Hospital proudly cares for pets and their families in Matthews and nearby communities, offering accessible and dependable veterinary services close to home.
Our Team
Our expert team committed to your pet’s health and happiness!

Dr. Sunil Kakarla
DVM, PH.D, Veterinarian
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.
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.

Dr. Gerges Keroles
Chief Veterinarian

Dr. 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 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.

Alitza Chalate
Surgery Assistant
Hi my name is Alitza Chalate. I’ve been in the field since 2022. I have a Siberian Husky named Captain who I love very much.

Victoria M
Surgery Assistant
I have been in the field for almost 4 years and have a “Foster Fail” Hound Mix named Lutie.

Vanessa Girich
Receptionist
Hello! My name is Vanessa! I have worked at this establishment for the past 5 years! I am a huge animal lover and have a dog myself. I can’t wait to accommodate you and your pet!

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!

Abbey Morrison
Veterinary Assistant
I have two years of veterinary experience coming from a small private practice and plan to go to school to be a certified veterinary technician. I have two dachshunds at home. I love the beach and reading, and I also love spending time outdoors.

Sophia Skinner
Veterinary Assistant
I am a recent NC State graduate with the hopes of becoming a mixed animal vet. I play the drums, love clothes, & I think Megamind is one of the best movies ever.

Lindsey
Veterinary Assistant
Hi my name is Lindsey, I graduated in May majoring in Marine Biology, I plan to go to graduate school and do marine research.


