Meet Our Staff

Jeff Kahler spent his childhood on the San Francisco Peninsula exploring the open fields, discovering the wonders of the animal kingdom. He developed a keen interest in reptiles and amphibians that continues today in his veterinary practice.

Dr. Kahler attended California State University, Fresno and received his undergraduate degree in biology. For 2 years, he worked in a veterinary hospital where he started as veterinary kennel attendant and later to a veterinary assistant. Then he moved to Davis to study at the University of California, Davis (UCD), working toward a PhD in comparative pathology. He then attended veterinary school at UCD, where he received his doctor of veterinary medicine in 1987.

Dr. Kahler began working at Veterinary Medical Associates in 1991, and became the director of the practice in 1996. His special interests include: internal medicine and surgery for small animal companions such as dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, reptiles, rodents, ferrets, goats, fish . . . and the list goes on.

Above all else, Dr. Kahler enjoys the special bond that is created between pet owners and their beloved companions. He is rewarded on a daily basis as he helps establish these relationships. His experience solidifies that he could have chosen no greater profession.

Dr. Hilary Wert grew up on the San Francisco Peninsula with a wide variety of pets, including cats, dogs, guinea pigs, snakes, and fish.  She developed a passion for animals, and with her accompanied love of science, spurred an interest in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Wert graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2006 with an undergraduate degree in biology. After graduation, she worked at a family-owned business for 4 years.  Meanwhile, in her free time, she volunteered at local wildlife rehabilitation facilities, barns, and veterinary clinics.  She then attended the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, where she received her degree in 2014.  After graduating from Davis, she joined Veterinary Medical Associates in July 2014.

Her special interests include: small animal medicine, soft-tissue surgery, and behavior of small animal and exotic pets.

Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, gardening, and relaxing with friends.

I recently graduated from the Veterinary Technology program at Carrington College. Caring for animals has been my passion, even as a child I knew that caring for animals is what I was meant to do. Growing up, I was a part of the 4-H club at my school. Throughout high school, I was a part of a Goat showing team that traveled to various shows. I have experience working with livestock animals. I look forward to all the experience and knowledge I will gain working.
When I’m not working I enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. I also love spending time with family.

I have been with the VMA family since 2001. I have enjoyed developing meaningful relationships with both our clients and our patients. I truly believe that it helps to impact the level of care and medicine we are able to offer. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband and two kids. I also have 3 dogs and 4 cats that keep me on my toes.

I joined the VMA family in September 2001. I am privileged to work with such amazing people. I love getting to know our wonderful clients and taking care of their companions. 

When I am not at work I am either fishing with my husband or at Disneyland with my daughter. I love camping and traveling to new places. I have two dogs and three cats that keep me on my toes!

I grew up mostly in Modesto, but have also lived in Arizona and Nevada. After returning to California for the last time, I attended MJC. I graduated from the Veterinary Technician program, earning a Certificate of Achievement. I also volunteered at our local animal shelter working closely with the Doctors and technicians. I enjoy working at Veterinary Medical Associates and appreciate all their mentoring and support. I plan on continuing my education to achieve my AS Degree in Animal Science, as well as my RVT license. I enjoy working with all species of animals, including exotics, pockets, as well as all the others.

When I am NOT studying, I enjoy watching movies, playing video games and spending time with my fur babies, playing fetch and training them to do new tricks.

I started in the veterinary field volunteering at the animal shelter for a year before I stared working here at VMA in July of 2017. Ever since I was a little kid I knew I wanted to work with animals. In high school I took an animal science class and since then I knew this was the field for me. So I continued my education at MJC and working towards becoming a RVT. I never really saw myself working with exotics but I am very glad I do because I love it. I love the fact that I can learn new things every day. When I am not at work I love hanging out with my family, friends and my fur babies.

I started working at VMA in 2018 as a kennel tech. It is an amazing experience to see what comes through the front door every day and I'm constantly learning so much. I have a passion for exotics & reptiles, so VMA is great for me! 

Prior to working here, I also volunteered at the Stanislaus Animal Services Agency. I attended MJC and received a certificate of completion for their Vet Tech program and am now working hands-on to become an RVT.

When I'm not at work, I'm usually playing video games, attending concerts, or spending time with my family & pets.

I graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles in 2020 with a BS in Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution. I started working at VMA in August 2020 to gain more experience in the veterinary field. I plan to further my education in vet school and to continue working with small animals and exotics!

In my free time, I enjoy hiking, reading, and crocheting. I also love all things Disney!

I began working at VMA in March 2021 but have been in the veterinary field since May 2018. I began working with small animals like cats and dogs in a spay and neuter clinic but have always wanted to work with a variety of animals like exotics. Since working here, I've grown to really love reptiles.

I attended Modesto Junior College where I got my A.S. in Veterinary Technology. After I obtain my R.V.T license, I would love to work towards getting into zoological medicine. Working here at VMA will give me the experience I need to try and make that goal possible. 

Growing up I had cats, dogs, rabbits, doves and chickens that I would always help my grandpa take care of everyday. Currently I have 2 dogs, 2 cats and a tortoise. During my free time, I love to watch sports, go to baseball games, play video games and go out to try/see new things and places.

I grew up with dogs but have always had a love for all animals. My dream job, ever since I can remember, was to work in the Veterinary field. I started working with VMA this year and I love it so much. Everyone is so welcoming and friendly. I've learned so many things so far and I am looking forward to learning more. I hope one day to work my way up in this field. When I'm not at work, I'm with my son or spending time with my family. 

I started working at VMA in 2020 and really enjoy it here.  I love seeing all the pets who through our doors!  

I am currently enrolled at Stanislaus State University and am majoring in Psychology. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, drawing, reading, and spending time with my family. I have a dog, rabbit, and two guinea pigs at home! 

Although I’m fairly new to VMA, I already love it here! The work environment and staff are amazing and everyone truly has met me with open arms. Ever since I can remember, I’ve always loved animals so what better place to work than somewhere where I am  constantly surrounded by them.

I have lived in Modesto for most of my life. I graduated from Modesto Junior College in 2018 with an Associates in Studio Art and then graduated in 2020 from Stanislaus State with a Bachelor of Arts in Art History. I have two cats of my own that I treat like my own children. They are always with me and really help keep my mood happy. Over the years my family and I have owned all different kinds of animals, from chickens to turkeys, to ducks, to rabbits, to a rat, and of course, cats and dogs. Cats are by far my favorite animal, but I really do love caring for all creatures when I can. 

Growing up I always knew I want to care for animals. I majored in Animal Biology at UC, Davis and obtained my Certificate for Veterinary Technician at Modesto Junior College.

Working at VMA, I learn something new every day and I hope to gain experience toward becoming a veterinary technician. In my spare time, I love to craft and spend time with my family and dogs.