Ham Lake Veterinary Hospital

Meet Your Dedicated Ham Lake Veterinary Team

Meet the Veterinarians & Team of Ham Lake Veterinary Hospital! We’re pleased to provide exceptional vet care for your pets!

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Get to know our veterinary team!

Dr. Laura E. Gerbec

Veterinarian

Dr. Gerbec's Bio

Dr. Laura E. Gerbec, a proud alumna of Harvard University, holds a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota, class of 1997. With a profound dedication to feline medicine, Dr. Gerbec combines her deep knowledge and passion to advance the well-being of cats.

After over two decades of practicing veterinary medicine in South Carolina, Dr. Gerbec has returned to her roots in Minnesota. Her diverse background includes competing in the jumper divisions of horse shows, adding a unique dimension to her professional expertise.

Beyond her veterinary pursuits, Dr. Gerbec is an avid reader with a particular fondness for 19th-century novels and contemporary Young Adult fiction. Her rich blend of professional focus and personal interests makes her a compassionate and knowledgeable advocate for animal health.

Dr. Katie Sandel

Veterinarian

Dr. Sandel's Bio

Dr. Katie Sandel, originally from Apple Valley, MN, has recently returned home after spending several years away with her Marine husband. During their time away, she earned her undergraduate degree in Veterinary Technology from Fort Valley State University and completed her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota in May 2023. Dr. Sandel has a strong interest in preventative medicine and is dedicated to providing comprehensive care.

In the winter, Dr. Sandel is often found cheering on her two oldest children as they play hockey, with their youngest joining in the fun. Her family includes two dogs: Charlie, a lovable bloodhound known for his charming wrinkles, and Semi, a Labrador mix who survived being hit by a semi-truck as a stray. The family also has two cats, Meeko and Sitka, and a flock of chickens.

Outside of work, Dr. Sandel enjoys crocheting, reading, fishing, and exploring the countryside. She and her husband, Brian, are currently working on building a fence for a future horse, which they hope will be a cherished addition for their family.

Dr. Tomas Egoavil

Veterinarian

Dr. Egoavil's Bio

Dr. Tomas is originally from Caracas, Venezuela, and earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota in 2018. He has a strong passion for small animal medicine, with a special focus on internal medicine and acupuncture. His gentle approach and dedication to patient care have always made him a favorite among pets and their families.

When he’s not working at the practice, Dr. Tomas enjoys hiking, visiting family in Florida, going to the beach, and playing the piano. He also shares his home with a very special rescue dog from Alabama named Rita.

Alicia

Certified Veterinary Technician

Alicia's Bio

Hello my name is Alicia Zigan. I graduated from Minnesota school of Business with an associate’s degree in veterinary technology followed by passing my VTNE in 2010 to become a fully credentialed Veterinary technician. I have been rocking the veterinary tech world since 2011. I started here at Ham Lake Veterinary Hospital in February 2024 and plan on continuing my career for years to come within the home I have found here . Throughout the years I have explored many other ventures in Veterinary medicine including: oncology, adverse event reporting, and also have taken some time off to start a family. My passions in veterinary medicine include clinical practice, client education, and the bond between animals and humans.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my husband (Zach), our two daughters (Aurora and Luna) as well as Voltron (our three legged dog), Zara (cat) and The Count aka Drac (Cat). As a family we enjoy camping, agate picking and fishing just to name a few.

Melissa

Certified Veterinary Technician

Melissa 's Bio

Hello, my name is Melissa. I have worked in Veterinary medicine since 2018. I started as an assistant in an emergency clinic before starting college to become a Veterinary Technologist. I graduated with my Veterinary Technology Degree in Canada in 2021, shortly thereafter I took the VTNE to become a registered Veterinary Technologist. I worked with dogs, cats and exotics for the last few years before moving down to Minnesota in July of 2024 to marry my now Husband.

I started at Ham lake in March of 2025 and have been absolutely loving it!

I have many interests in Veterinary medicine, so far I think surgery and client education has been my favorite!
Outside of work I enjoy gaming, especially during the winter cold months, and during the summer I love camping, hiking, Kayaking, and swimming and just spending time outside with my dog Daisy and my Husband!

Amber

Manager/Veterinary Technician

Amber's Bio

My name is Amber. I have been a Veterinary Technician for eight years at Ham Lake Vet; I got hired while in college and have been here since. I attended Argosy University; I graduated in 2016. Now I’m the Hospital Manager here. I have two young kids, two dogs (Butters, Gator) and a cat (Wicket), and I can’t forget my betta fish (goldy). During my free time, which with two kids a year apart, it’s hard to have, I enjoy yoga, reading, traveling, and knitting.

Johanna

Veterinary Assistant

Johanna's Bio

Johanna has been working in the animal care industry for four years, with the past two dedicated to the veterinary field. She attended the University of Northwestern St. Paul and has a deep passion for providing a safe, clean, and comfortable environment for all animals in her care. She takes pride in helping pets feel at ease while ensuring they receive the care they need to stay healthy.

Outside of work, Johanna loves hiking with her dog, Primrose, and is excited to start participating in dog sports with her soon. She also enjoys reading, playing video games, crocheting, and spending time with family and friends.

Brittany

Veterinary Assistant

Brittany's Bio

Bio Coming Soon!

Brooke

Veterinary Assistant

Brooke's Bio

I’ve been working in the vet field since January of 2021. I went to Minnesota State University – Mankato and got a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology. I have 4 cats – Luna (pictured), Simba, Nacho and Queso. Outside of work I enjoy cooking, baking and watching movies. My favorite thing about vet med is helping sick pets feel better and watching puppies/kittens grow up!

Olivia

Veterinary Assistant

Olivia's Bio

Hi there, my name is Olivia Zwiefelhofer and I am a veterinary assistant currently in school to (hopefully) become a CVT. Life brought me into the VetMed field after working in shelter med and dog training. I absolutely love this job and all the patients/clients I have helped so far! I have 2 dogs, both Alaskan Klee Kai’s or Mini Huskies. Nani is the youngest at 6 years old and she is the one in my picture, the other is Kodiak and he is 8 years old. I really love working with larger breed dogs and hunting breeds! My favorite animal is a raccoon and I would honestly love to work with wildlife one day. I look forward to taking care of your lovely furry family members!

Melaine

Veterinary Assistant

Melaine's Bio

Bio Coming Soon!

Leah

Receptionist & Kennel Assistant

Leah's Bio

Leah is a dedicated member of our team, bringing her passion for animal care to both the front desk and kennel areas. She takes pride in ensuring that every pet feels safe and comfortable during their visit while providing friendly and compassionate service to clients.

Faith

Receptionist

Faith's Bio

Bio Coming Soon!

Kennedy

Receptionist

Kennedy's Bio

Bio Coming Soon!

Audrey

Receptionist

Audrey's Bio

Bio Coming Soon!

Finn

Kennel Assistant

Finn's Bio

Bio Coming Soon!