Our Animal Care Team
DR. GAGE BLACKSTONE—MEDICAL DIRECTOR
Originally from south Austin, Texas, Dr. Blackstone moved back to Texas from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to purchase Loop 363 Animal Hospital. Dr. Blackstone started his college studies at Southwest Texas State University but transferred to Texas A&M University after 2 years. He then received his Animal Science degree from Texas A&M University in 1996. In May 2001, Dr. Blackstone completed his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine. During his college years, Dr. Blackstone gained experience as a veterinary assistant at Town & Country Veterinary Hospital in Austin and worked in plumbing utility construction in Austin. Required for the construction work, Dr. Blackstone used to hold a Texas journeyman plumbing license.
After veterinary school, Dr. Blackstone worked as a mixed-animal practitioner for one and one-half years at Town & Country Veterinary Hospital in Austin. Being the free-spirited type, he then moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, to work for and possibly purchase Rio Grande Animal Clinic. After a few years at Rio Grande Animal Clinic, Dr. Blackstone tried another opportunity and spent the next 7 years in a veterinary franchise in Albuquerque.
Now that he has moved back to Texas, Dr. Blackstone looks forward to many years of caring for pets in Temple. Dr. Blackstone and his wife, Stephanie, have been married since 1999. Together, they have three children: twins, Andrew and Brianna, and another son, Chase. The Blackstone family shares their home with Jasper, Great Dane, and 5 cats. Dr. Blackstone does believe in God and attempts to make lifes decisions in accordance with His will. Dr. Blackstone enjoys activities like hunting, camping, hiking, snow skiing, Toyota off road wheeling, and riding dirt bikes and ATVs, playing piano and keyboards, and spending time with family and friends.
DR. TERESA BOEDEKER — VETERINARIAN
Dr. Teresa Boedeker, a Temple native, has been a general practitioner at Loop 363 since May 2003. As an Animal Science major at Texas A&M University, she was awarded early acceptance into the veterinary program at Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Boedeker received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in May 1992.
After spending nearly ten years practicing in Harker Heights, Dr. Boedeker accepted an associate position at Loop 363. In addition to general medicine, Dr. Boedeker has special interests in internal medicine and behavior and is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Active in agility and obedience training, Dr. Boedeker’s dogs have competed at the national level and AKC Invitationals in agility and have won numerous obedience and agility titles.
She is an active member of the Bell County Kennel Club as well as a member of the First Baptist Church. Dr. Boedeker and her husband, Darryl Schiller, have four Australian Shepherds, Newt, Rhett, and Scarlett, two Border Collie, Annie and Cinch, and three Quarter Horses, Stormy and Booger and six goats.
DR. SUZANNA CURTS — VETERINARIAN
Born and raised against the sweeping backdrop of NW Oklahoma, Suzanna's heart was captivated by creatures early on. Guided by her aunt through the vibrant world of ambulatory animal care, her passion found its calling.
Her journey led her to triumph at Oklahoma State University - Center for Veterinary Health Sciences in 2020. Now rooted in Central Texas, Suzanna thrives with her husband, son, and a bustling camaraderie of animals.
When not immersed in nurturing her furry companions, she seeks the thrill of nature through hikes, finds solace in the pages of books, and stitches tales of creativity through cross-stitching. Suzanna orchestrates each day with a melody of family, adventure, and artistry.
DR. Jennifer Hewitt — RELIEF VETERINARIAN
Dr. Jennifer Hewitt grew up in Vancouver and Calgary, Canada. She dreamt of working with animals since her childhood. She attended the University of Calgary and received her Bachelor of Science in Zoology with Honors and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees-- which were completed in 2008 and 2013.
Dr. Hewitt has worked in mixed animal practices, but primarily in small animal medicine for the last 7 years. Over the last few years, she has gained experience in emergency medicinal practice, as well.
Dr. Hewitt's special interests include dermatology. In fact, she has continued education in the field and has even practiced in a dermatology-exclusive clinic. She is very passionate about helping to improve the quality of life for the itchy patients!
During her free time, Dr. Hewitt can be found outdoors running, hiking or skiing. She enjoys cooking, gardening and traveling with her husband and 3 dogs.
Our Support Team
TY —Practice Manager
Ty is a native Texan, born and raised in the countryside, and has been immersed in the company of animals his entire life. He currently resides on his family's land, tending to all sorts of animals, including cattle, chickens, pigeons, and two loyal canine companions. Ty's deep-rooted love for the animal community is only rivaled by his love of cars!
When he's not caring for his animal companions, you'll find him relishing time with loved ones, exploring the great outdoors on camping adventures, shooting pool, and embarking on delightful sightseeing escapades.
SARAH BERGERON, RVT—TECHNICIAN TEAM LEADER
Sarah is a Native of Upstate New York and attended SUNY Delhi, where she received her associate's degree in Veterinary Science. She has been a Licensed Veterinary Technician since 2004. In October 2006, Sarah moved to Texas and joined the Loop 363 family. Her dream job as a child was to become a veterinarian and own many horses.
Sarah is known for her extensive experience, knowledge, and attention to detail. She has a special interest in ultrasonography.
When Sarah is not at work, she is often with her family working on/adding to their hobby farm, juggling kid's sporting events, playing with their dog "River," collecting chickens, and trying to convince her husband why they need more animals!
LORIE SESSIONS—VETERINARY TECHNICIAN
Lorie has been a dedicated member of Loop 363 since January 2005. Her role as a veterinary technician primarily revolves around surgical procedures. She is proudly referred to as "the cat lady" because of her deep love and compassion for felines. Originally from Moffat, Texas, Lorie brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the Loop 363 team. Her genuine passion for her job is evident daily, as she loves coming to work.
Outside of her professional life, Lorie cherishes quality time with her family and indulges in her love for camping.
Nan Charanza—Veterinary Technician
Nan grew up in Cameron Texas and graduated from C.H. You High School. She worked with her mother for eight years before going back to school to be a veterinary technician at, what was then, T. S. T. I. In Waco Texas. Nan graduated in 1990 to take the state boards to become an R.V.T. Her first job was in Houston, which led her to work at the Texas A&M Small Animal Clinic in Ophthalmology for nearly 10 years. While at A&M, Nan was certified to deal with research rabbits.
Nan has been with the Loop 363 Animal Clinic for nearly five years now and loves her work family very much. Still, after all these years, her love of the job has not diminished. Nan loves her puppies, kitties, horses, and all the chicken ladies! This keeps her plenty busy and loving life
Nan's dream job as a child was to do something with horses, and after 30 years, she has learned all of the best ways to hold dogs!
When not working, Nan can be found riding horses or driving her pony mule, "Mose."
Courtney Coates—Veterinary Technician
In 2019, Courtney embarked on her journey in the field of veterinary medicine. After relocating to Temple, Texas in 2021, she initially began her career in the fast-paced realm of emergency veterinary care but eventually found her place at our Loop 363 Animal Hospital family.
Beyond the workplace, Courtney cherishes moments spent with her husband, three beloved children, and her two loyal canine companions.
Sarah Abbott—Veterinary Technician
Sarah has called Temple home for a decade, commencing her veterinary medicine journey in 2016 during her stay at Temple High School. Just one day after graduating in 2017, she began her professional journey here and steadily climbed the ranks to become a skilled veterinary technician.
When she's not at work, you'll discover Sarah indulging her passion for grooming and nurturing meaningful connections with her two feline friends, Lotus and Maven, her loyal dog Maddi, and her intriguing snake companion, Cosmos.
MICKAYLA RAFUSE— CLIENT REPRESENTATIVE
Mickayla is a dedicated student at Penn Foster, diligently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in veterinary technology. With over two years of experience in the field, she has contributed her talents to veterinary medicine as a receptionist and aspires to further her career as a technician.
When she's not immersed in her studies and work, Mickayla finds joy in the company of friends and her fiancé, and her ideal escape involves basking in the sun on a beautiful beach day.
MARY MURPHY— CLIENT REPRESENTATIVE
Mary, a true Belton, Texas native, spent her formative years under the loving care of her grandparents. Her upbringing on a sprawling 163-acre property introduced her to a diverse array of animals, including cows, horses, cats, and dogs, which she cared for. Engaging with her passion for animals, Mary was an active member of both 4H and FFA, showcasing her expertise in cow exhibitions. Her compassionate nature extended beyond her own pets, as she had a habit of rescuing stray cats and dogs, bringing them into her home. During her leisure hours, you'll often find Mary enjoying quality time with friends and family.
Aubrey Meier—Client Representative / Veterinary Technician
Aubrey grew up in Academy, Texas, and where she attended Academy High School. She has been with Loop 363 since February 2021. She has been in love with animals all her life and always knew she wanted to help them-- in fact, her dream job as a child was a veterinarian. Ashley is known for taking home any animal she finds, especially pitties.
Outside of work, Aubrey enjoys reading, being outside, and spending time with her two daughters in her spare time.
Sandy Brown—Kennel Technician
A native of beautiful Hawaii, Sandy graduated from San Diego State with a degree in criminal justice. However, her true calling led her to exchange handcuffs for dog leashes, driven by her deep affection for our four-legged companions. After working at at a dog rescue in California, she, along with her pint-sized chihuahua companion, Maui, ventured to Texas with her husband to embrace new horizons.
While still adjusting to the Texas heat, Sandy eagerly anticipates the opportunity to provide dedicated care for your cherished dogs and cats.
