Meet Our Veterinary Team

Melinda Wood, Managing Veterinarian

I’m originally from Corpus Christi, Texas, and earned my B.S. in Marine Biology from Texas A&M Galveston before graduating from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in 2013. I began my veterinary journey as a kennel and veterinary assistant before becoming a doctor.

I’ve always been drawn to medicine and animals, but the spark truly ignited when I shadowed a veterinarian performing an ultrasound on a pregnant dolphin at a SeaWorld careers camp. I realized then how powerful veterinary care can be—and while I first imagined myself working with marine animals, I soon discovered that helping pets and their families every day in small animal practice was where I could make the biggest impact.

What I love most about our hospital is the culture of compassion. Our doctors are knowledgeable and caring, and our staff is dependable and hardworking. We all share the same goal: providing excellent patient care and a great client experience.
I have a real passion for soft tissue surgery and dermatology, and I’m excited to continue expanding my skills—orthopedic surgery is next on my list. At home, my husband Will and I have one very spoiled Chihuahua mix named Dingo.

Outside of work, I enjoy camping, fishing, drawing, knitting, reading, and relaxing with my husband. Fun fact: my favorite color is purple—and it’s also my birthstone!

As a veterinarian and Managing DVM, my priority is advocating for your pet and working with you to make the best decisions for their care. I’m always open to feedback and here to make your experience the best it can be.

Jamie Charlie, Associate Veterinarian

I’m originally from Ville Platte, Louisiana, and I’ve loved animals for as long as I can remember. I knew from a young age that I wanted to work in health care, and during my junior year of high school, I attended a job fair at LSU and spoke with a representative from the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine. From that moment, I set my sights on veterinary school and haven’t looked back.

I started working as a veterinary assistant in 2002 and became a veterinarian in 2008. What I enjoy most about working at our hospital is the relationships I build with clients, patients, and coworkers. Whether we’re providing routine wellness care or managing complex medical conditions, we’re all united in the goal of caring for the pets who share our lives and homes.

I have a special interest in senior pet care, helping pets enjoy a full, comfortable life in their golden years.

At home, I share my life with a lively bunch: Minion, a senior Chihuahua/Terrier mix who loves food and naps; Albus, a young adult miniature poodle who loves walks and snuggles; and three cats—Abita, a 10-year-old chatterbox; Clementine, a 7-year-old toy-chasing beauty; and Matilda, a 5-year-old explorer of our fenced-in backyard.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading as many books as possible, playing video games, and hitting the disc golf course. Fun fact: my favorite food is duck and sausage gumbo!

I feel incredibly grateful to witness and care for the special bond between people and their pets every day.

Becky Graf, Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Graf brings over 24 years of veterinary experience, along with two additional years as a veterinary assistant. A proud graduate of Kansas State Veterinary College, she is deeply committed to strengthening the human-animal bond and approaches each patient with compassion, empathy, and respect.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Graf enjoys spending time in her garden and embracing her artistic side through spinning yarn, weaving, and crocheting. We’re excited to have her join our team and look forward to the care and warmth she brings to our clients and their beloved pets.

Sara Logan, Registered Veterinary Technician, Practice Manager

Hi, I’m Sara, RVT and Practice Manager here at South Platte. I’m originally from Central Illinois and moved to Colorado in 1996 to study dance and music. I didn’t find my way into veterinary medicine until 2010, when I started volunteering at the Dumb Friends League and the Wild Animal Sanctuary while in school. I graduated from Bel-Rea in 2012 and quickly discovered my passion for caring for dogs and cats.

What I love most about South Platte is our team—we’re like a family, and it’s amazing to work with people who genuinely support each other and the pets we serve. I’m Fear Free Certified and have a special knack for helping nervous dogs feel comfortable and safe during their visits.

I’m a greyhound lover at heart, and when I’m not at work, you can usually find me dancing, reading, kayaking, or traveling—I’ve even studied dance in Brazil and backpacked through Alaska.

I’m truly grateful for every client and patient who trusts us to care for them—it’s a privilege I never take for granted.

Jackie, Registered Veterinary Technician

I’m originally from Brooklyn, NY, and I’ve loved working with animals for as long as I can remember. Growing up, watching my father rescue people and animals from burning buildings inspired me to help those in need—especially when most wouldn’t.

I started working in the veterinary field in 2006, which eventually led me to move to Colorado to become a Licensed Veterinary Technician. What I love most about our hospital is that everyone here has a passion for learning and genuinely cares about the wellbeing of every animal and human that comes through our doors. It truly feels like family.

I have a special interest in dentistry and love seeing the results after treating diseased teeth. I’ve also enjoyed working in orthopedics and making sure pets under anesthesia are cared for as if they were my own.

At home, I share my life with my pets: Vivian, my 3-year-old mutt; Joon, our 4-month-old Lab mix; Meow Meow, my 13-year-old bottle-fed cat; and Lana and Billie, two 3-year-old NY kittens who are sisters.

Outside of work, I enjoy going to concerts, spending time at the beach, and hanging out with family and friends. Fun fact: I come from a very large family—I’m one of six kids, and both of my parents also come from big families. I also played two years of college basketball and softball.

I’m grateful for every client and patient who trusts me and our team to provide compassionate, high-quality care.

Ashley, Registered Veterinary Technician

Since graduating from the Bel Rea Institute of Animal Technology in 2014, Ashley has primarily worked in Emergency and Internal Medicine. She finds her joy in the field through client education. Pulling from her extensive background in veterinary medicine, she is able to help owners understand disease processes and treatment in a way that better prepares them to care for their beloved pet after they leave the hospital. In her free time, you can find her spending quality time with her family and exploring the Colorado outdoor scene to its fullest.

Anya, Certified Veterinary Assistant

Anya found home in the veterinary field in 2020 when she graduated from PIMA Medical Institute as a Certified Veterinary Assistant. She has been spreading her wings in general practice and urgent care. With a Fear Free Certification to enhance her natural ability, Anya is skilled at soothing anxious patients and has a unique ability to engage effectively with cats–she has four cats of her own! Outside of work, Anya finds joy in reading and gaming.

Drake, Veterinary Assistant

Bio Coming Soon!

Maria, Client Service Representative

Hi, I’m a Client Service Representative here at South Platte and a proud Denver native. I’ve been working in the veterinary field for about four years, driven by a lifelong love and compassion for animals and a strong desire to help pets.

What I love most about South Platte is the warm, family-like atmosphere—we’re a close-knit team that genuinely supports each other and cares deeply about the animals we serve.

One of my main areas of interest is animal behavior. I’m especially passionate about working with pets who need a little extra time, understanding, and patience. It’s incredibly rewarding to help those animals feel safe and cared for during their visits.

At home, I have a fun little crew of my own: two cats named Persian and Majin, and my sweet “tripawd” dog, Millie. Millie is especially close to my heart—she’s a survivor, and Dr. Wood here at South Platte actually helped save her life!

Outside of work, I’m all about music and adventure. Whether it’s discovering new artists, going to concerts, or exploring new places, I love finding ways to stay inspired and connected.

I’m always here to help make your experience as welcoming and smooth as possible—and to make sure your pets feel like family.