Animals have always been an important part of Danielle’s life. Her formal education began at North Carolina State University where she obtained bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and biochemistry. She went on to earn an associate in science degree in veterinary technology from St. Petersburg College.

With over two decades of experience as a veterinary technician, Danielle has a unique understanding of referral medicine and the needs of primary care veterinarians, clients and team members. She has honed her skills as both a licensed veterinary technician and practice manager, becoming adept in all aspects of running a busy practice with a 24/7 caseload.

Respected in her profession, Danielle has served as a Veterinary Support Personnel Network (VSPN) board moderator and course assistant, and is a sought-after speaker for national professional conferences. Additionally, she is an advisory committee member of the TCC Veterinary Science Program. Outside of work, you’ll find her tending to her horses and family pets at Brydelle Farm in Gloucester County.

Jennifer L. Meads
Office Manager

Jennifer graduated from Kempsville High School with plans to pursue a degree in music, but a summer job as kennel help at a local veterinary hospital changed her mind. She eventually rose through the ranks, from receptionist to veterinary assistant to management.

During this time, Jennifer was a founding member of the Great Dane Rescue of the Commonwealth and has remained an active member, serving on the board. She joined The COVE in 2012 as part of the inaugural client liaison team, and became part of the administrative team the next year. When Jennifer isn’t working, you can find her playing the bassoon, piano or clarinet surrounded by her furry family.

Julie L. Meyer, LVT
Operations Manager

Julie developed a passion for animals as she grew up in the countryside of Northern Virginia surrounded by dogs, cats and horses. After high school, she worked as a veterinary assistant in a general veterinary practice, and enrolled in Blue Ridge Community College’s distance veterinary technology program, earning her associate’s degree in applied science of veterinary technology and becoming a licensed veterinary technician.

Julie served as an LVT at a veterinary emergency clinic, honing her skills as a leader among her co-workers, an advocate for patients, and a source of comfort and confidence for their owners. Julie also spearheaded a local animal blood banking program.

In 2012, Julie joined the inaugural veterinary technical team at The Center of Veterinary Expertise and helped facilitate our successful opening. In early 2013, she became operations co-manager, and divides her time between working as an ICU LVT and developing protocols & procedures, training and scheduling.

When Julie isn’t at The COVE, you can find her with her feet in the sand of the beaches of Hatteras, NC, and spending time with her friends, family and pets.

Rhiannon Ward
Referral Coordinator

Rhiannon Ward serves an essential role here at The COVE as our referral coordinator. She works closely with referring veterinarians to keep them updated on the prognosis and treatment of their patients.

Rhiannon is originally from Texas, but as a proud military wife, she has lived throughout the United States from San Diego to Virginia Beach. Before joining The COVE in 2015, Rhiannon worked as a vet tech in a spay/neuter clinic, a veterinary receptionist, and a dog trainer. In 2016 she transitioned from client liaison to referral coordinator. 

Her furry family includes a six-year-old Lab and Golden mix, named Troubadour and a 16-year-old Blue Heeler, Kaiser.  When she is not working, she enjoys spending her time traveling to new places, going to concerts, sailing on the water and dinners on the back deck.