Education: SUNY College Environmental Science & Forestry, Oklahoma State University

Dr. Barbara Braziel’s undergraduate degree is from SUNY College Environmental Science & Forestry in wildlife Biology & Forestry. After retiring from the Dallas Police Department, she returned to school to receive her veterinary degree from Oklahoma State University. Dr. Braziel lives with her husband Curtis and all of their many furred and feathered children in Cooper. She actively donates her time to several rescues treating heartworm disease and she also volunteers with CASA, a Court Appointed Special Advocate or guardian dedicated to America’s most vulnerable children, speaking up for their best interests.

Fear-Free Certified, Level II
Education: Texas A&M University

Dr. Kristen Decker received her Bachelor of Science degree from Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in December 2008. In 2009 she returned to Texas A&M to attend the College of Veterinary Medicine. She graduated as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2013.

Dr. Decker grew up in the Union Valley area and attended the Royse City ISD schools. She was first employed by Country Friends when she was in high school and worked during her school breaks until halfway through veterinary school. She returned to Country Friends in 2015 and has enjoyed being a part of the family ever since.

In her free time, Dr. Decker enjoys spending time with family and friends, attending church, playing recreational sports, traveling, and reading. She has 2 four-legged friends: Addie, an American Cocker Spaniel, and Ava, a rescue Border Collie mix. She recently completed a Certificate of Ministry through Highlands College out of Birmingham, Alabama.

Fear Free Elite Certified, Level III
Education: Texas A&M University

Dr. Robin Westwood graduated from the Texas A&M University in 1995 with her Bachelor’s in veterinary science and in 1998 with her doctorate in veterinary medicine. She has enjoyed being around animals her entire life and knew when she was in the 6th grade that she would be a veterinarian. Since graduating from high school she has been in a veterinary hospital from receptionist, kennel attendant, and veterinary technician to finally veterinarian and practice owner. She is married to her college sweetheart Craig, a Plano forfeiter and a mom to her 4 daughters. Her passion has always been animals but in the last 15 years, she has realized she has a passion for people as well. Dr. Robin Westwood joined the staff of CFVC in January 2007 and then took the big jump from a veterinarian to a veterinary business owner in 2013 when she became the proud owner of Country Friends Veterinary Clinic. It has been an endeavor filled with change, challenges, fear, excitement, and never a dull moment. She enjoys spending time with her family, teaching and learning from her girls ( whom are no longer girls but young women), being a wife to Craig, being outdoors in the quiet of nature, riding and eventing on her trusty steed, Romeo, gardening, reading, learning new things, problem-solving, and spending time with God.

She is active with the United States Eventing Association and Lakepoint Rockwall Church. Her memberships include Dallas County Medical Association (DCVMA), Texas State Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA), American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA, and Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA).

Fear Free, Level II
Education: University of Missouri

Dr. Anna Stewart was born and raised in Springfield, Missouri. She has always loved animals and developed a passion for medicine as she spent time working in veterinary clinics while obtaining her bachelor’s degree at the University of Arkansas. She obtained her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Missouri in 2013. Her favorite part of practicing medicine is creating relationships with clients and their pets. She loves to help owners foster a happy and healthy environment where their pets can thrive. There is also nothing more rewarding than having an animal come in sick and sending them home happy and healthy!

Dr. Stewart and her husband Ryan have a daughter and a Catahoula mix named Auggie. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, anything outdoors, reading, baking and traveling.

Education: Oklahoma State College
Fear-Free Certified

Dr. Richardson graduated from Oklahoma State College of Veterinary Medicine in 2020. She had her introduction to veterinary medicine in high school, volunteering at Country Friends. Eventually, she came on staff and worked at the clinic for several years during college. After veterinary school, she worked at a general practice near Austin, TX. Additionally, she volunteered to do spays/neuters at the local shelter. She sees dogs and cats but will also occasionally see exotic pets as well.

During her off time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and hiking. She also has a passion for traveling and seeing new places. She has 2 dogs, a Jack Russell Terrier and a Pembroke Welsh Corgi. They are both very active and love traveling as well.

Rhonda was born into a family that arrived in Texas shortly after crossing the ocean generations ago. She enjoys the various cultures and varieties of yummy food but mostly loves spending time with family and friends, those within the area and those who don’t. Whenever possible Rhonda is off to camp, hike, kayak, and hunt for rocks and fossils.

Since being with CFVC, Rhonda has had the opportunity to foster cats and dogs and loves to discuss how amazing the human-animal bond is, including the one she shares with CFVC’s clinic cat- she is Autumn’s chosen human.

Rhonda frequently expresses gratitude for being a part of Country Friends, “This is an amazing group of people who are intentional in practicing best medicine and providing exceptional experiences- motivated by their love for animals and for you, their families.”

Born and raised in the heart of Texas, Cynthia is all about crisp fall mornings and cozy winter vibes. At home, life is full and joyful with her three amazing kiddos, her fantastic husband, one playful pup, and two charming cats who rule the roost.

When she manages to carve out a little “me time,” you’ll find her lost in a good mystery novel or making memories with her family.

Cynthia loves the warm, family-oriented atmosphere at CFVC. In her own words:
“I’ve grown up surrounded by animals and adore each one for their unique personality. Every pet has its own story, and I love getting to know them!”

With 22 years of client service experience (and 10 of those right here at Country Friends!), Lisa is practically family to so many of our clients—and their pets! She knows names, wagging tails, and the stories behind them all.

Born and raised in Texas, Lisa is deeply rooted in this community and loves the country life. She and her husband Steve share their home with Bella, their beloved dog, and when Lisa isn’t greeting you at the front desk, you’ll find her enjoying time with family and friends.

What inspires Lisa most? Helping pets and learning more about veterinary medicine every day. Her passion for animals and her warm personality make her an essential part of our team—and a favorite among our clients!

About 18 years ago, Nikki hitched a ride to Texas and never looked back (her southern drawl fits right in!). She’s a proud mom of two grown kids, a doting grandma to two energetic grandsons, and the ultimate dog mom to her adorable Maltipoos, Remi and Gracie.

When you ask Nikki what Country Friends means to her, she’ll tell you without hesitation: “They’re my family.” And it shows—she pours her heart into creating a bond with every furry friend that walks through our doors.

Outside of work, Nikki loves soaking up family time and sneaking away to the beach whenever she can. Her favorite thing about Texas? The people! (Though she’ll happily join in on those legendary weather debates, too.)

Laney is a proud Texas native with a big heart for animals and an even bigger love for adventure. When she’s not at CFVC caring for your furry friends, you’ll probably find her at a live concert soaking up the music scene or exploring new places with her family.

She originally graduated in real estate but has her sights set on an exciting goal—becoming a Farrier! Laney’s life is full of four-legged companions, including her two dogs: a spirited miniature Aussie and a lovable Great Pyrenees/Aussie mix.
Fun fact: At just five years old, Laney was convinced she’d be a veterinarian. These days, she still channels that passion every day at CFVC. “We’re like one big family here,” she says. “We care about every animal that walks through our doors, and I love all the learning opportunities this job brings!”

When she’s not working or cheering at concerts, Laney enjoys riding side-by-sides—a hobby most people don’t know about! Her favorite thing about living in Texas? Hands down, the incredible live entertainment scene.

Nick is the friendly face you’ll see when you walk through our doors, always ready to make your visit smooth and stress-free. With a passion for clear communication and a positive attitude that’s downright contagious, Nick is all about creating the best experience for our clients and their pets.

When Nick isn’t helping clients, you’ll probably find them at home with a crochet hook in hand, crafting their next masterpiece, spending time with close friends, or cheering on their favorite hockey team—the Dallas Stars (Go Stars!). Fun fact: when Nick was five, they were sure they’d grow up to be a teacher. Life had other plans, but their love for learning and connecting with people never went away.

Nick also has a hidden creative side—they’re a published poet and currently working on their first novel! And if you ask what they love most about living in Texas, the answer is easy: the Dallas Stars hockey team, of course.

Next time you’re in, say hi to Nick—they’d love to chat about pets, poetry, or hockey!

Traci comes from South Texas, graduated with her AAS in Veterinary Technology in 2014 and earned her title of LVT here at Country Friends. During her time at Country Friends, she has earned her Bachelors in Veterinary Technology, and masters in Human Resource Management. In her free time, Traci enjoys following Houston Astros and Texas, knitting, and reading. Traci also has 5 dogs, and multiple creatures including snakes, lizards, tarantulas, and sugar gliders.

Bio Coming Soon!

Brandi has been making tails wag and whiskers twitch for 15 years, and for the last 12, we’ve been lucky to have her right here at Country Friends! Her love for animal care comes straight from the heart—she’s passionate about advocacy and making sure every furry friend gets the best possible care.

Not only is Brandi a top-notch veterinary technician, but she’s also our Machines, Equipment, and Maintenance Supervisor (yes, she keeps all the important medical gadgets humming along!). We’re beyond grateful for her knack for problem-solving and keeping things running smoothly.

Brandi’s always looking ahead—she’s excited about earning more certifications in the future. When asked what makes Country Friends special, she says, “It’s the family atmosphere.” And honestly, we couldn’t agree more!

Outside of work, Brandi’s life is full of love and laughter with her husband BJ, their daughter Lydia, two dogs, and five cats (four adopted from Country Friends and one lucky stray rescue). When she finds a little “me time,” Brandi dives into arts and crafts, creating beautiful things from scratch.

Fun facts? Brandi was born and raised in Texas, loves cooking for her family, and enjoys wine tasting. Her favorite part of the job? Helping animals—because every wag, purr, and happy bounce inspires her to keep doing what she loves.

Ashley’s home is basically a mini-zoo! She shares her life with two cats, a spunky dachshund, a curious hedgehog, two playful ferrets, and even two slithery snakes. Her love for animals doesn’t stop at the usual pets—she’s passionate about working with exotics and learning everything she can about them.

Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and an endless curiosity, Ashley is always ready to dive into new challenges and care for creatures big, small, furry, scaly, or spiky. If it has a heartbeat (or scales), Ashley is excited to meet it!

Born and raised in the heart of Texas, Candice is as true-blue as they come—especially when it comes to cheering on her beloved Dallas Cowboys! When she’s not rooting for her team, you’ll find her soaking up the beauty of the outdoors, relaxing under the evening lamps, and listening to the soothing sounds of nature.

Candice’s passion for helping others started early—at just five years old, she dreamed of becoming a teacher for children with disabilities. Today, she channels that same caring spirit into her work with pets and their people. Her favorite part of the job? Educating and connecting with clients while giving every fur-baby the love and care they deserve.

When asked what makes Country Friends special, Candice didn’t hesitate:
“I love working here because we’re appreciated for our hard work. We’re like family—the employees, the pets, and the clients too!”

Candice brings heart, knowledge, and a big Texas smile to everything she does. Whether she’s cheering on the Cowboys or comforting a nervous pup, she’s all about making every moment count.

Born and raised in the heart of Texas, Savannah brings southern charm and a whole lot of talent to our team. At home, she and her husband share life with two adorable pets named Honey and Beans (yes, they’re just as sweet and quirky as their names suggest!).

When she’s not caring for animals, Savannah’s probably singing her heart out at church or casually catching grapes and marshmallows in her mouth from impressive distances—a hidden skill that deserves its own talent show segment.

Fun fact: At age five, Savannah was convinced she’d grow up to be a dolphin trainer. While her career path took a slightly different turn, her love for animals never wavered.

Whether she’s helping a furry patient feel better or making the team laugh with her quick wit, Savannah adds joy and energy to everything she does.

Born and raised in the heart of Texas, Maddie has always had a soft spot for furry (and scaly!) friends. At just five years old, she was convinced she’d grow up to be a veterinarian—and honestly, she wasn’t too far off!

Today, Maddie shares her home with two very different companions: Maggie, her lovable St. Bernard, and Hermione, a gecko with plenty of personality. When she’s not caring for pets at the clinic, you’ll find Maddie behind a camera lens, practicing photography—a hobby most people don’t know about!

Her favorite thing about Texas? The endless variety of food (though the weather debates come in a close second). Maddie loves working with animals and spending time with her family, making her a perfect fit for our team.

Cammy is on an exciting journey to earn her Licensed Veterinary Technician credentials through Penn Foster, and her love for animals runs deep. Growing up, she always put furry friends first, so it’s no surprise she’s dedicated her career to their care.

After two years working in pet lodging, Cammy wanted to make an even bigger impact—and veterinary medicine was the perfect path. Today, she’s passionate about helping strays and shelter pets find the love they deserve. She says the most inspiring part of her job is seeing the transformation that happens when animals receive compassion and care from the team.

At home, Cammy’s life is just as lively! She shares it with her husband, daughter, three dogs, and one very opinionated cat. And here’s a fun fact: Cammy’s family is one of the founding families of Rockwall, Texas—how cool is that?

Their love for the field stems from a lifelong appreciation for animals and a dedication to compassionate, science-based care. Aymi has a special interest in preventative care and in using Fear Free practices to ensure every patient experiences the least stressful visit possible.

Outside of work, they enjoy hiking and camping when the weather allows, and they’re an avid fan of horror movies, reading, and crafting – especially crochet and jewelry making. They chare their home with three dogs – two Chihuahuas and a Corgi – who keep life fun and fill of personality.

Bio Coming Soon!

Bio Coming Soon!

But Victor isn’t all work and no play—he has a few hidden hobbies up his sleeve! When he’s not at the clinic, you might find him caring for horses, hitting the running trails, or welcoming new faces at his church.

Living in Texas is a dream for Victor. He loves the country life—the animals, the breathtaking sunsets and sunrises—and the endless opportunities for growth as he pursues his veterinary goals. Plus, Texas’ rich diversity and cultural fusion have taught him something special: to admire and respect the dedication people have to their traditions. It’s a lesson that helps him connect with others in a meaningful way.

Breanna is a proud mom to a beautiful baby girl, who inspires her every day as she works toward becoming a Licensed Veterinary Technician through Penn Foster. When she’s not studying or caring for pets, you’ll find her enjoying life with her boyfriend and daughter—whether it’s a day at the park, cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, or riding horses.

Her furry family includes a mini Aussie and a blue heeler, her beloved fur-babies. Fun fact: Breanna is a former barrel racer, so she knows her way around the rodeo!

What does Breanna love most about Country Friends? “The atmosphere—it’s so welcoming, fun, and warm!” And we couldn’t agree more.

Autumn has the highest of standards in pet care- she advocates for vaccines, having pets spayed and neutered, and regular health exams for preventative care. She believes in keeping things pawsitive!

Currently Autumn is enrolled in Purrr College where she is studying the latest strategies in manipulating humans to become an expurrrt in the field with an emphasis on training other clinic cats in the following CATegories: “Treats and Other Important Necessities”, “Paws to Training Humans” and “Ruling the World for Dummies”