About our practice

Lakeside Veterinarian is a Lexington, SC veterinary clinic that primarily focuses on dogs, cats and backyard chickens. Our focus on a positive work culture lifts staff to reach their highest professional potential, and exponentially increases the quality and diversity of the services we provide.

The core values that drive decision making and daily interactions at Lakeside Veterinary are:

Compassion

Education

Balance

Camaraderie

Lakeside Veterinarian is a Lexington, SC veterinary clinic that primarily focuses on dogs, cats and backyard chickens. Our focus on a positive work culture lifts staff to reach their highest professional potential, and exponentially increases the quality and diversity of the services we provide.

The core values that drive decision making and daily interactions at Lakeside Veterinary are:

Compassion

Education

Balance

Camaraderie

Dr. Jennifer Williams

Veterinarian

Jennifer Williams, DVM, is a graduate of the Mississippi State College of Veterinary Medicine, where she graduated in the top of her class in 2013. She also attended Winthrop University for her undergraduate degree in Biology.

Dr. Williams’s passion is in helping cats and dogs live their longest, fullest lives. She is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the South Carolina Association of Veterinarians, the Greater Columbia Association of Veterinarians, and the American Association of Feline Practitioners. I am a certified Cat Friendly Veterinarian and Cat Friendly Practice, Fear Free Professionals, and RECOVER Certified (CPR in dogs and cats). Dr. Williams and her team have training and expertise beyond what is expected to ensure the utmost care of her furry patients.

Having grown up in Columbia, Dr. Williams is happy to be living close to family and friends. She, her husband, and two sons live on Lake Murray with their dog, two cats, and flock of backyard chickens.

Dr. Jennifer Williams

Veterinarian

Dr. Ruth Kogos

Veterinarian

With a strong background in veterinary medicine, Ruth Kogos, DVM is a valuable asset to our team, contributing her knowledge and passion for animal care. Her journey in North America showcases her commitment to advancing her skills and providing top-notch care for our furry friends. In 2024, Dr. Kogos attained her North American Veterinary License, and began practicing at Lakeside Veterinary right away!

Back in Kenya, Ruth shares her life with two beloved dogs, demonstrating her lifelong connection with animals. In her North American home, she has welcomed a backyard cat into her family, further highlighting her devotion to our four-legged companions.

Ruth’s interests extend beyond the world of veterinary medicine. She is an avid reader, always eager to expand her knowledge, and she enjoys exploring new places through travel. In her downtime, you might find her tending to a flourishing garden, a testament to her nurturing nature. Above all, she treasures spending quality time with her husband and two wonderful kids, cherishing the bonds that make her life whole.
Ruth’s dedication to animal care, her global perspective on veterinary medicine, and her rich personal life make her an invaluable member of our team. We are proud to have her on board, ensuring the well-being of your cherished pets.

Certifications + Affiliations

Meet our Team

Kaycee

Lead Veterinary Assistant

Kaycee is a seasoned professional in the veterinary field with a rich history dating back to 2003. Armed with an associate’s degree in science, majoring in veterinary technology, Kaycee has dedicated her career to providing compassionate and skilled assistance in surgery and anesthesia.

More about Kaycee

With nearly two decades of experience, Kaycee has honed her skills to ensure the well-being of our furry friends. Her commitment to excellence extends beyond the operating room, as she actively contributes to the comprehensive care our clinic provides.
Beyond the clinic, Kaycee finds joy in a harmonious life. Married for 15 wonderful years to Bobby, and blessed with a son named Philip, family is at the core of her values. At home, two delightful dogs, Layla and Hazel, as well as her fish complete their happy household.
When not immersed in the world of veterinary care, you can find Kaycee indulging in her love for good music, exploring her creative side through crafting, or satisfying her wanderlust through travel adventures.
Kaycee is excited to be a part of the dedicated team, contributing her skills and passion to the well-being of animals and fostering a positive work environment. She looks forward to making a positive impact on the lives of our furry companions and their families

Kara

Veterinary Assistant

Kara is a dedicated veterinary professional with over six years of experience in animal care, including three years in a fast-paced veterinary emergency room setting. As a Fear Free Certified professional, Kara is committed to reducing fear and anxiety in her animal patients, ensuring that every pet receives the highest standard of care in a compassionate and stress-free environment.

More about Kara

Kara holds an Associate’s degree in Art from Piedmont Technical College, blending her creative talents with her passion for veterinary medicine. Her interests lie particularly in reptiles and exotic animals, though she has a special place in her heart for cats and pit bulls, both of which she absolutely adores.

In addition to her professional experience, Kara enjoys volunteering with farm sanctuaries and wildlife rehabilitation organizations, demonstrating her commitment to animal welfare beyond her clinic duties. At home, she shares her life with a diverse array of pets, including cats, dogs, fish, a bearded dragon, and leopard geckos, enriching her understanding of various species.

Outside of her veterinary work, Kara enjoys engaging in arts and crafts, finding joy and inspiration in her creative pursuits. With a unique blend of experience, compassion, and artistic flair, Kara is committed to providing exceptional care for all animals.

Shelby

Veterinary Assistant

Shelby wilson is a dedicated veterinary assistant with 9 years of experience in animal care and support within veterinary clinics. Passionate about animal welfare, she has developed strong skills in patient care, handling animals with compassion and expertise.

More about Shelby

Emily

Lead Customer Service Representative

Emily is the dedicated Lead Customer Service Representative at our organization, bringing a wealth of experience and passion to our customer service team. With a background in specialty and emergency care, as well as management, Emily has consistently demonstrated her commitment to delivering top-notch service and leadership in her role.

More about Emily

With a keen understanding of the intricacies of customer service, Emily has played a pivotal role in ensuring our customers’ needs are met with utmost care and professionalism. Her ability to manage complex situations and find solutions has been invaluable to our team’s success.

Beyond her professional achievements, Emily is a dynamic individual with a variety of interests and talents. She’s not just a master of customer service but also a master of canines, as she proudly owns and cares for five energetic Border Collies.

Her passion for these remarkable dogs goes beyond companionship, as she actively competes in the thrilling worlds of flyball and frisbee, showcasing her dedication and teamwork both at work and in her personal life.

In her free time, you can often find Emily tending to her garden, where she nurtures a vibrant array of plants and flowers. Her love for gardening reflects her nurturing spirit and attention to detail. In addition to her garden, Emily enjoys the companionship of seven backyard chickens, each with its own unique personality, making her backyard a true haven for both humans and feathered friends. Emily is the embodiment of dedication, professionalism, and a genuine love for life.

We are proud to have her as the Lead CSR of our team, where her wealth of experience and passion for service continues to make a positive impact on our customers and colleagues alike

Amber

Veterinary Assistant

Amber is a dedicated veterinary nurse with over 11 years of experience in general practice. A Columbia, South Carolina native since 1995, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Experimental Psychology—a background that enhances her understanding of both animal and human behavior. Amber is passionate about helping pet owners improve the quality of life for their beloved companions and loves that no two days in veterinary medicine are ever the same. Her calm demeanor, compassion, and attention to detail make her a valued part of the care team.

More about Amber

Outside of the clinic, Amber enjoys spending time with her husband, Steven, and their two teenagers, Easton and Greyson. Their home is filled with love and energy from two dogs (Gryffin and Ruby), a cat (Dexter), and an Indian Ringneck parrot (Luna). In her free time, Amber enjoys plant identification, birding, creating art, landscaping, and taking on new DIY projects. Her creativity and love for nature shine through in everything she does—both at work and at home.

Diana

Customer Service Representative

With eight years of experience as a veterinary receptionist, Diana is seasoned in specialty, emergency, and general practice care, providing excellent support and compassionate service to both clients and their beloved pets. Her lifelong passion for animals began early, growing up immersed in the equestrian world through riding and competing, which instilled a deep understanding and love for animals.

More about Diana

Currently, Diana shares her home with two dachshunds, Mosley and Emmett, and a rescue named Sophia, all of whom bring immense joy and companionship to her life. Outside of work she enjoys concerts, traveling, and tending to her grand collection of plants.

Diana’s extensive experience and passion for animals contributes positively to the veterinary field, ensuring every client and their pet receive the highest level of care and attention.