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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!

Get to know our veterinary team!
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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.

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Dr. Delaney Cox

Veterinarian

Dr. Cox's Bio

Dr. Delaney Cox was born and raised in Minnesota and earned her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota in June 2022. After spending two years in an equine-focused clinic, she discovered her true passion lies in small animal veterinary medicine. With a keen interest in preventative medicine and client communication, Dr. Delaney is thrilled to join our team!

Outside the clinic, Dr. Delaney loves spending time with friends and family, riding her horses, and hiking with her fiancé, Joe, and their one-year-old cattle dog mix. She actively competes with one of her warmbloods in the local dressage circuit while her other horses enjoy retirement on her parents’ hobby farm.

 Dr. Delaney is excited to serve this wonderful community and its amazing pets!

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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.

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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.

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Natalie

Certified Veterinary Technician

Natalie's Bio
I graduated with an AAS in Veterinary Technology from Minnesota School of Business in 2014, and have been working at Ham Lake Veterinary Hospital since 2019. Veterinary medicine is my passion and I would not be happy doing anything else. I have a teenage son, 2 dogs, and 4 cats it is a full house but it is never a dull moment.
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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.

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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.

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Brianna D.

Kennel Assistant

Brianna's Bio
Brianna has been in the veterinary industry for three years and is currently pursuing her Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) certification through Penn Foster. She has a passion for continuous learning and takes great pride in providing compassionate care for animals.

Outside of work, Brianna enjoys reading and watching horror movies.

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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.