Our Team

Dr. Pugh was born and raised in Stark County, Ohio. He attended Louisville High School and then The Ohio State University. He graduated with a B.S in Agriculture in 1993 and then enrolled in Ohio State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and graduated with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 1997.

​​​​​​​He met his wife, Cathy, at OSU and together they founded Hometown Veterinary Services, Inc. in the fall of 1997. He has greatly enjoyed practicing in his hometown for the past twenty-three years. He and his wife have three daughters and a son ranging from 21 to 26 years old. He enjoys his three dogs and two cats as well as caring for their horses, cattle, and livestock. In his spare time, Dr. Pugh enjoys attending his children’s activities/events, going to church, cheering on the Buckeyes, and managing his farming operation—Pugh Family Farms!

Dr. Dittoe is a 1980 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He was a partner in a mixed animal veterinary practice in Wooster, Ohio for a number of years before coming to Hometown Veterinary Services in 2018.

​​​​​​​He has been serving the area as a Companion Animal Relief Veterinarian for the past number of years. He has been married to his wife, Marilyn, for over 45 years. Together, he and his wife have three children and six grandchildren. Dr. Dittoe enjoys boating, water skiing, church, woodwork, golf, family and the Buckeyes! James also spends his free time public speaking and is currently authoring his first book- check out his website www.jamesdittoedvm.com!
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Dr. Pugh performed an internship under Dr. Dittoe prior to graduation from OSU while he was in Wooster!

Dr. Estock graduated in 2016 with a B.S in Animal Science from The Ohio State University. Following his undergraduate degree, he attended Ohio State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and graduated with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2020.

​​​​​​​Dr. Estock graduated in 2016 with a B.S in Animal Science from The Ohio State University. Following his undergraduate degree, he attended Ohio State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and graduated with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2020. Before working at Hometown Veterinary Services, he worked at a mixed animal veterinary practice in Texas. Michael has three fur children; an English Springer Spaniel named Huck, a Labrador Mix named Louie, and a cat named Tippy. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his girlfriend Kyla, exploring the outdoors, hiking, watching sports (especially the Buckeyes), and working on his family farm. 
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Dr. Pugh has been able to watch Dr. Estock grow up participating in 4-H with his 4 children: Taylor, Brooklyn, Morgan, & Austin!

Dr. Jeremiah Bennis joined the Hometown Veterinary Services team in 2025. He graduated from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2000.

​​​​​​​Dr. Bennis began his career in Alaska, where he practiced emergency medicine for both large and small animals. His passion for animal health has taken him across the world—whether studying infectious diseases in bison in Alaska or spending years in Norway teaching and expanding his knowledge of herbal medicine and acupuncture for animals. No matter the species, from a door mouse to a bison, Dr. Bennis has always held a deep respect and care for all animals.

Now happily back in the United States, Dr. Bennis enjoys exploring Herbology, Chinese cooking, and spending quality time with his family, especially his nieces and nephews. At home, he also cares for his adopted cat, Smooshkin, and her two kittens, rounding out a life deeply rooted in compassion, curiosity, and lifelong learning.

Cathy is the Practice Manager and Part Owner of Hometown Veterinary Services and has been part of the practice since day one in 1997. Alongside her husband, Eric, Cathy helped build HVS with the goal of providing their community with veterinary services that truly set the standard for animal care, while preserving the warm, compassionate, “hometown” environment that makes the practice so special. Through her leadership and vision, HVS has grown to expand its space and services, allowing even more of the community’s beloved pets to receive exceptional, individualized care.

​​​​​​​Cathy’s greatest goal is to one day retire knowing she made a meaningful, positive impact on the community she loves so deeply, while spending more time with her family and grandchildren. She is widely known for her nurturing spirit and unwavering dedication to her staff and clients alike. With remarkable gumption and heart, Cathy ensures that her family, employees, and clients are cared for not only within the clinic, but also in their personal lives.

Giving is Cathy’s love language—whether it is making sure someone has warm boots in the winter, celebrating life’s moments with a party, or simply taking the time to sit and listen. She offers those around her not only thoughtful gestures, but the priceless gift of her time, making her the heart and soul of Hometown Veterinary Services.

Brooklyn has served as the Office Manager and HR Lead for the Hometown team since 2020. She is the daughter of Dr. Eric and Cathy Pugh and having grown up in the family business, she is proud to help manage and support what her parents have built, playing an integral role in the continued growth and success of the clinic. She values being a part of a practice that blends quality veterinary care with a deep commitment to the community it serves.

​​​​​​​Brooklyn has enjoyed watching the clinic evolve over the years and feels grateful to be a part of its journey. As she shares, “I have enjoyed watching the clinic grow and change—in a good way—over the years and getting to be a part of it all. I love getting to work alongside my parents to provide quality and compassionate care to the community I grew up in and that has supported us for over 25 years.”

Outside of her Hometown family, Brooklyn shares her life with her husband, Tyler, their Golden Retriever, Waylon, and their Gray Domestic Short Hair, Dolly. She enjoys spending quality time with her husband, and when time allows, reading her favorite books. Brooklyn's dedication, kindness (which is beyond compare), heart for people, and pride in Hometown make her a valued leader and an important part of the HVS family. 

Erica is the Head of Veterinary Services, overseeing Technician, ICU and Surgery departments, and has been a cornerstone of Hometown Veterinary Services since 2001! With her experience, dedication and heart, Erica in an invaluable leader at HVS and hold true to her reputation for reliability, independence and honesty.

​​​​​​​She began her career right out of High School building a lifelong profession centered on caring for animals and supporting the people who love them. Erica has long-lasting relationships, with both clients and coworkers, and proudly considers the Hometown team her second family.

Erica's journey with HVS began as a client, when Dr. Pugh offered her a working internship after high school—a moment that launched her career in veterinary medicine. Outside of work, Erica enjoys spending time with her kids, working out and reading. She has two cats, Chuck and Kitty Cat and a tortoise, Baby Debo.

Traci has worked in the Veterinary field for over 20 years! She joined Hometown Veterinary Services in July of 2017. 

​​​​​​​She grew up in East Sparta, Ohio on a farm working with horses and doing 4-H projects. She has always had a special connection with animals and working with the public. Traci currently lives in Perry Township, Ohio with her two children. In her free time, she enjoys camping, vacationing on the beach, and spending time with her kids!

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Abigail is a Veterinary Technician and RVT student who has been a valued member of the Hometown team since 2016. She graduated from Kent State University with an Associate's Degree in Applied Science and is currently working towards earning her Registered Veterinary Technician License.

​​​​​​​At home, her sweet Corgi, Dennis, who brings plenty of personality and joy to her days, happily accompanies Abigail. When she is not in the Clinic, she enjoys expressing her creativity through pyrography art, soaking up the sun and time at the lake, biking and spending as much time outdoors as possible. She also values quality time with her family and friends, making the most of every moment.

Debbi is a Registered Veterinary Technician who has been part of the Hometown Veterinary Services team since 2017 and has been an RVT since 2005—over 20 years of experience makes Debbi a vital pillar of our Hometown team.

​​​​​​​She is a graduate of Cuyahoga Community College and brings years of experience and dedication to patient care and her team. Debbi’s love for animals began early, shaping her passion for veterinary medicine.

Debbi enjoys being outdoors as well as spending time with family and friends. She has a beloved dog, Santina and a horse, Watermelon. Known for her experience, patience and compassion, Debbi is a valued and trusted member of the Hometown Veterinary Services team.

Katie is a dedicated Veterinary Technician who has been a valued member of the Hometown Veterinary Services team since 2019, bringing with her veterinary experience that began in 2013.

​​​​​​​She has a true love for the outdoors and enjoys camping, attending concerts, and spending as much time outside as possible with her family and friends. Katie is married to her best friend and is always accompanied by her loyal Pit-bull, Nala—Katie's four-legged best friend! Her love for animals, outgoing personality, and passion for making meaningful connections shine through both in and out of the clinic, making her a wonderful part of the Hometown team.

Since 2022 Piper has been a Veterinary Technician, known for her compassion, kindness and dedication to every patient and team member. She holds an Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology and was inspired to pursue veterinary medicine by her passion for helping animals.

​​​​​​​She works on our Curbside Veterinary team to serve our clients and furry patients at our Curbside Drive-Thru! At home, Piper cares for her Siberian Husky, Damon and her horse, Coal, reflecting her love for animals both large and small. Outside of work, she of course enjoys horseback riding and reading.

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Nikki is a Registered Veterinary Technician working in the ICU and has been part of the Hometown Veterinary Services team since 2023. She values working at HVS because it fosters an environment that encourages teamwork as well as both professional and personal growth.

​​​​​​​Nikki is inspired by the opportunity to support pets through illness or injury while also educating and guiding owners during what can often be stressful and emotional times.

At home, Nikki shares her life with four cats and three dogs. In her free time, she enjoys crocheting, listening to audiobooks, and gaming. A fun fact about Nikki—she grew up in England while her father served in the military, giving her a unique and memorable upbringing.

Nicole is a Veterinary Technician who joined the Hometown Veterinary Services team in 2023. She holds an Associate Degree in Animal Science from The Ohio State University and is passionate about continuing to learn something new every day.

​​​​​​​Nicole’s love for animals is what drew her to HVS, and she finds inspiration in being able to see the same pets she has helped care for return healthy—watching them grow and live their best lives. She deeply values the care and compassion Hometown provides to both clients and their pets.

At home, Nicole shares her life with her German Shepherd–Husky mix, Alpha, and a miniature pony named Sugar. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her son, Layne, and attending equine activities and events. A fun fact about Nicole—her son loves riding their miniature pony, Sugar, and they often take her to shows together.

She is exceptionally funny, caring, and understanding treating every patient compassionate care.

Krista is a Veterinary Technician who joined the Hometown Veterinary Services team in 2023. She is a 2025 graduate of Kent State Tuscarawas with a degree in Veterinary Technology and is currently studying to earn her Registered Veterinary Technician license.

​​​​​​​Krista enjoys working at HVS because of the opportunity to collaborate with amazing coworkers and supportive staff.

At home, Krista shares her life with her two dogs—Bella, a Husky–Collie mix, and Scarlett, a Golden Retriever–Australian Shepherd mix. Outside of work, Krista enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with her boyfriend, Oscar. Known for being kind, attentive, and open-minded, Krista brings compassion and positivity to both her patients and teammates.

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Alex is one of our dedicated Veterinary Technician who has been providing exceptional care and support to both clients and furry patients since 2024. She earned her Associate's Degree in Animal Sciences at Ross College.

​​​​​​​Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, tending to her flower garden, and enthusiastically celebrating her favorite holiday~ Halloween!
She has two dogs, Floyd and Shelby.  ​​​Alex's passion for animal care and warm personality make her an important part of the Hometown team. 

Terry is a Registered Veterinary Technician and Team lead who brings experience, patience, and steady leadership to the Hometown team. A graduate of Stautzenberger College, Terry is dedicated to continuing to grow his skills in patient care and client communications. He enjoys being part of Hometown because of the supportive team environment, built on clear communication, teamwork, and mutual respect—values that inspire him every day.

​​​​​​​At home, Terry shares his life with two dogs, seven cats and his kids who are teenagers. Outside of work, he enjoys art, creative DIY projects, gardening, cooking and spending time with his large, blended family, made up of biological, adopted and foster children, which keeps his home full of personality and fun stories.

As a father to teenagers, Terry is skilled at balancing busy schedules and problem solving on the fly. Known for being dependable, practical and patient he is a trusted leader and valued member of the Hometown Veterinary Services team.

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Jodie is a Registered Veterinary Technician who joined the Hometown Veterinary Services team in 2025. She graduated from the Ross College Veterinary Technician Program in 2020 and earned her RVT license in 2021.

​​​​​​​One of her biggest goals is to one day open a cat rescue and sanctuary, combining her professional skills with her lifelong passion for feline care.

Outside of work, Jodie enjoys watching bad horror movies. A unique and meaningful fun fact about Jodie is that she is a certified pet loss and bereavement specialist, allowing her to support clients with compassion during difficult times.

At home, Jodie has three cats, Xavier, Mister Cait, and Serenity (affectionately known as “Stinkie”). Jodie’s empathy, warmth, and love for animals make her a treasured member of the Hometown team.

Amanda is a Veterinary Technician who joined Hometown Veterinary Services in 2025. She graduated from Penn Foster College receiving her Veterinary Technician Degree.

​​​​​​​At home, Amanda shares her life with her two dogs—Sadie, a Coonhound, and Dutch, a Heeler/Pit-bull mix—along with her cat, Reece. Outside of work, she enjoys drawing, doing nails, and of course expanding her knowledge in veterinary medicine. Amanda is recognized for her patience, optimism, and natural leadership, bringing compassion and positivity to every patient and team interaction.

Aimee is the Communication Team Lead as the Human Resources Manager and has been a valued member of the Hometown Veterinary Services team since 2022. Her role is to the success of HVS and serves as a key connection between clients and the veterinary team, ensuring information is shared clearly, accurately and compassionately. 

​​​​​​​Her passion, outgoing personality, and commitment to learning make her role essential in upholding Hometown’s culture of teamwork, trust, and exceptional pet care. Aimee is inspired by the opportunity to continue learning in the veterinary healthcare field, believing that every pet teaches her something new each day.

At home, Aimee shares her life with her husband and their Labrador–Rottweiler mix, Bella. Outside of work, she enjoys riding four wheelers and dirt bikes with her husband. A fun fact about Aimee—she previously worked in the medical assisting field, bringing valuable experience and perspective to her role. Known for being outgoing, hilarious, and passionate, Aimee brings energy, dedication, and heart to the Hometown team.

Annette is a full-time Head Receptionist for Hometown Veterinary Services and has been at our front desk since 2006! Along with checking in pets for their appointments, she answers phones and performs many daily office duties that are essential to the success of HVS.

​​​​​​​Annette says she "fell into" the field of Veterinary Medicine and truly feels like she found her place. She is a true people person, which you can see every day as she joyfully attends to clients needs at the front desk.

Annette enjoys spending time with her husband, their three children, and their eight grandchildren. She enjoys walking, cooking, baking, puzzles, and reading! Not only does Annette make sure to remember everyone's birthdays and anniversaries, she has an impressive rolodex of Seinfeld quotes she often shares with us—"Not that there's anything wrong with that."

Gari has worked on our Communications Team at Hometown Veterinary Services as a Receptionist since 2017. She brought with her over 17 years of experience and has been adding to that every day since!

​​​​​​​She truly enjoys interacting with our clients and their beloved fur children, taking pride in building genuine connections and making everyone feel welcome and cared for. At home, Gari has a special place in her heart for her own fur children, Frankie and Sammie, two loving cats who bring comfort to her long days.

Outside of work, Gari loves embracing life to the fullest—whether that is riding her Harley-Davidson motorcycle, spending quality time with her husband, or making memories with her family and three grandchildren, who bring her endless joy. Her warmth, enthusiasm, and love for both people and animals shine through in everything she does, making her a cherished part of the Hometown family.

Amber works on our Communications Team at Hometown Veterinary Services. She has worked in the Veterinary field since 2015 and joined our team after moving to Hartville, Ohio in 2021.

​​​​​​​She loves working at HVS because it is a family-run practice the truly cares about every client and employee. As Amber says, "You can't find a better place! I love my job and my bosses!"

Outside of work, Amber enjoys traveling adventures, attending concerts and movie screenings-especially anything true crime or horror—related. A fun fact about her—Halloween is her favorite holiday and she absolutely adores being a mama!

Amber enjoys spending her free time with her friends, family, husband and her son Jax who is truly her world.

Michelle is a Communication Team Specialist who has been part of the Hometown Veterinary Services team since 2022. In her role, she helps keep HVS running smoothly by processing orders and inventory for the clinic, assisting with marketing efforts and supporting a wide range of day-to-day operations—and much more!

​​​​​​​She is currently attending Stark State University of Technology, where she is working toward earning her degree in Massage Therapy. One of Michelle’s greatest goals is to show her daughter that anything is possible through dedication and perseverance.

Michelle loves working at HVS because of the kindness, support—personally and professionally—and positive culture shared by everyone on the team. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her daughter, as well as painting and crafting. Known for being dedicated, resilient, and kind, Michelle brings heart, creativity, and compassion to her role and to the Hometown team. 

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Alexis is a Communications Receptionist and has been a valued member of the Hometown team since 2022. Alexis's work ethic, outgoing personality and compassion as Receptionist makes her a valued member of the Hometown team.

​​​​​​​Driven by her goals centered on faith, hard work and love, she has a strong desire for knowledge, embraces improvement and new opportunities. Alexis loves working at HVS because her skill set is recognized and utilized every day, and she deeply values being part of a team that cares not only for its clients, but for each team member as well.
She appreciates how Hometown encourages both personal and professional growth and is grateful for the supportive, positive culture that makes working alongside her coworkers so rewarding. Outside of work, Alexis enjoys traveling, attending concerts and spending time with her fiancé Joshua. At home, she is kept busy by her two dogs—Buck, a German shorthaired pointer, and Dolly, a miniature Dachshund.

A fun and exciting fact—Alexis is expecting to have her first baby in 2026!

Hannah is a Communication Team Specialist who has been part of the Hometown Veterinary Services team since 2023. She is very familiar with farm living and livestock, with a background that includes showing steers and other livestock at fairs and shows.

​​​​​​​Her lifelong passion for animals shines through both at work and at home—whether she is cuddling a corgi or spending time with her cows, animals are truly at the center of her life.

Outside of work, Hannah enjoys listening to country music and loves being able to see and care for animals every day. Known for being crafty, kind, and compassionate, Hannah brings a warm, caring presence to the Hometown team and to every client interaction.

Delaney is a Communication Team Specialist who became part of the Hometown Veterinary Services team in 2025. She is a graduate of the RG Drage Career Technical Center, where she completed the Animal Science Pre-Veterinary Technology Program, building a strong foundation in animal care and handling.

​​​​​​​Delaney brings valuable experience in dog training, a skill she uses daily to help create calm, positive interactions for patients and their families.

In her role, Delaney plays an important part in client communication and is often the friendly face greeting clients at our Curbside Drive-Thru, where she manages patient intake and helps ensure each visit begins smoothly and stress-free. Her ability to connect with both people and pets helps set the tone for a positive experience at Hometown.

Being inquisitive, kind, and deeply passionate about animals, Delaney is able to approach her work with curiosity, compassion, and enthusiasm. Her dedication and gentle presence make her a valued member of the Hometown team.

Margie is a dedicated Sanitary Team Specialist whose work plays a critical role in the foundation of Hometown Veterinary Services. By ensuring our facility remains clean, orderly, and safe, Margie helps create an environment where pets can heal, clients feel comfortable, and staff can perform their jobs with confidence.

​​​​​​​Her consistency and care directly support the quality of service we are proud to provide every day.

As a family-owned practice, we know that success is built on the commitment of each individual, and Margie’s contributions are deeply valued. Her reliability and pride in her work strengthen our team and reflect the values Hometown stands for. We are sincerely thankful for Margie and the support of her family, whose encouragement allows her to be such an important part of the Hometown family.

Emmi is a valued member of our Hometown Sanitary Team, and her role is essential to the daily success of Hometown Veterinary Services. Since 2025, she has helped maintain a clean, safe and organized environment to help protect the health of our patients, clients and staff—allowing our team to provide the highest level of care possible.

​​​​​​​Her attention to detail and strong work ethic play a vital role in keeping our clinic running smoothly behind the scenes.

As a family-owned business, Hometown Veterinary Services recognizes that every team member contributes to the heart of our practice; Emmi’s dedication does not go unnoticed. We deeply appreciate the care she puts into her work and the positive impact she has on our team and our clients’ experience. We are truly grateful not only for Emmi, but also for the support of her family, who allow her to be such an important part of the Hometown family.

Anthony is a valued member of the Hometown Sanitary Specialist Team, and his role is essential to the daily function and overall success of HVS. Through his dedication to maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming facility, Anthony helps to ensure that both patients and clients are cared for in an environment that supports healing trust and professionalism.

​​​​​​​His behind-the-scenes efforts allow our medical and support teams to focus fully on providing exceptional veterinary care day-in and day-out.

As a family-owned practice, we understand that every role matters, and Anthony’s hard work makes a lasting difference in how our clinic operates each day. We greatly appreciate his commitment, dependability, and the pride he takes in his work. We are also grateful to Anthony’s family for their support, which enables him to be an important part of the Hometown family and contributes to the strong foundation of our practice.