Dr.Gainey is a 2006 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine and the owner of Belpar Pet Care Centre and Uniontown Veterinary Clinic. In December 2009, he and his wife, Angela, moved to Uniontown and purchased the Uniontown practice and in 2012 he then purchased Belpar. Prior to moving to Uniontown, he had practiced in Dover and Salem, Ohio where he worked with a wide array of medical and surgical cases. Dr. Gainey’s passion for animals comes from growing up on a dairy farm in Holmes County, Ohio. He was raised around holstein dairy cattle, horses, dogs, cats, chickens and pigs. To this day, he does his best to find time to visit his mother, who is an avid rider, and enjoys riding his horse “L.B.” His veterinary interests are in soft tissue and laser surgery, preventative care and chemotherapy. Dr. Gainey has been trained in Regenerative Therapies and Joint Injection by The Veterinarian and Orthopedic Sports Medicine Group. He has pursued regenerative medicine because pets are living longer and need the same cutting-edge treatment that humans have available. He and Angela have 5 four-legged children; Benson, Honza, Annabelle, Watson and Holmes.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I enjoy the application of science, chemistry, anatomy, and math that we do on a daily basis, and being able to apply that to working w/ animals.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
If you notice an illness, do not wait to see if it gets better at least call to talk to someone to see if we can wait or we can get meds to help, or if you need to be seen. Doing nothing tends to allow issues to get worse not better.
Dr. Ayssa Auer joined our staff in March of 2017 after practicing at a small animal clinic in Stow, Ohio. She grew up on a small farm in Indiana and later graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Animal Science in 2009 and continued her education at Purdue to receive her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2014. She enjoys the veterinary field because it allows her to help give a voice to the creatures that don’t have one. Dr. Auer and her husband, Tim, were married in August of 2016. Together, they have many pets! “Chloe-Bear” Shiba-Inu/Basenji mix, “Chloe-Jo” Golden Retriever, “Chloe the Tortoise, “Domino No!” Domestic Shorthair cat, “Tiny Baby Life Coach” her Cat and Mentor, many fish all named “Chloe” except for “Beta-baby!” (can you see that she likes the name Chloe?) In her spare time she enjoys gardening, growing basil and riding horses.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I enjoy the application of science, chemistry, anatomy, and math that we do on a daily basis, and being able to apply that to working w/ animals.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
If you notice an illness, do not wait to see if it gets better at least call to talk to someone to see if we can wait or we can get meds to help, or if you need to be seen. Doing nothing tends to allow issues to get worse not better.
Dr. Michael McAndrew graduated from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2019. He received his Bachelors degree in Animal Science and Biology from the University of Findlay. He enjoys internal medicine and surgery. He loves people, animals and biology, and veterinary medicine is a perfect combination. As a Canton native, he shadowed at Belpar Pet Care Center for 12 years prior to being hired! (Some of you might recognize him!) He knew that he wanted to become a veterinarian from a young age and is now working in the veterinary practice that he grew up with long ago. A fun fact about Dr. McAndrew is that he is SCUBA certified. Dr. McAndrew has a cat named “Schecter.”
“There’s no such thing as a silly question. Ask us; we won’t bite!”
– Dr. McAndrew
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
This is just a placeholder headline, we will replace it once your website copy is finalized.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
This is just a placeholder headline, we will replace it once your website copy is finalized.
Vedessa Meluch is a 2005 graduate from the University of Southern Mindanao, Philippines. While in the Philippines, she studied zoo and swine nutrition along with animal conservation. After shortly moving to the United States, she attended the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada for an intense year of skills and enhancement training in small animal medicine. In 2016, Dr. Meluch became certified by the University of Tennessee to practice canine and feline physical rehabilitation. She also obtained extra curriculum for conservative management of canine and feline osteoarthritis. She has brought to Belpar Pet Care Centre alternative forms of relief and treatment for obesity, osteoarthropathy, post surgical recovery, relief of pain, and help pets with mobility for neuropathic and orthopedic pain. Dr. Meluch and her husband live on a farm and have many cows, horses, ducks and dogs. She spends her free time driving a big tractor while harvesting corn and hay. She isn’t afraid of getting dirty and changing the oil on the tractors, as well!
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
It is a fulfilling and rewarding job – I get to help pets who cannot help themselves. I also get to meet people who have the same love for pets as I do.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Make effort to bring your pets for a fear-free, happy vet visits that do not include exam or medical procedures. These visits focus on counter-conditioning, which helps pets build positive associations with the clinic through treats, praise, gentle handling, and a calm environment by allowing your pet to come in just to say hello, receive treats from staff, and leave on positive note, we can gradually change pet’s perception of the clinic and make future visits much happier and less stressful for them.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I love the animals with the varying personalities, interacting with them and watching them feel better after which treatment, watching them grow up and be a part of their family. I love the medicine and its ever evolving aspects.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Get your pets in a training program for mental and physical stimulation(?). It’s fun for the whole family and builds bonding.
Angela serves as our Practice Administrator along with being a certified Veterinary Practice Manager, Interpersonal Communications & Business Administration. Ang has over 10 years experience in the veterinary field. She believes the human animal bond is so amazing. Helping pet owners give their pet the happiest, healthiest, longest life possible is very rewarding to her soul. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, reading, quilting and crafts. In 2014, she was honored to be named Business Professional of the year by the Lake Township Chamber of Commerce. She and her husband, Dr.Joe Gainey, have 5 dachshunds; Benson, Annabelle, Honza, Watson and Holmes. They also are very proud parents of a kiddo in the U.S. Navy.
“Pet Insurance! JUST DO IT. It pays for itself and allows you to choose the care you want for your pet. No more balancing care with cost! “
– Ang
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
Witnessing the Human-Animal bond and seeing the love and companionship between pet and pet owner.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Have pet insurance, even basic accident/illness, those that don’t have it wish they did when they need it, and those that do have it are thankful when they need it. One claim can pay for a lifetime of premiums.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
My Patients! Also being able to make my patients and clients happy.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Don’t take time with your pet for granted, they are never with us for as long as we live.
Nicole has been a member of our staff since June 2016. She became a Registered Veterinary Technician through Kent State University. She enjoys working in the veterinary field because there is always something new to learn every day. In her spare time, Nicole enjoys target shooting, 4 wheeling, reading and spending time with family. She has a white German Shepherd (Sasha) and 5 cats.
“Obesity shortens life span and reduces quality of life. Talk to your vet about healthy treat alternatives!” – Nicole
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
Whether it’s preventive surgery to live healthier, corrective surgery to fix an injury/issue, or emergency surgery to save a life I enjoy being there to help get a pet through it safely and comfortably.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Keeping your pet at a healthy weight can reduce health problems and extend their lives. Pet nutrition can be overwhelming, beware of fads and advertising campaigns. Ask your vet for reliable information on your pet’s specific dietary needs.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I enjoy working in vet med because of the constant opportunity to learn new things. I can then share that knowledge with pet parents, as well as applying that knowledge to my patients.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
I would love to help pet owners understand the importance of annual exams and yearly bloodwork. The odds of catching an illness early on (heart disease/kidney disease) is much greater if the pet is being seen routinely.
Jillian joined our team in September of 2022. She always has been drawn to animals and needs to help and protect those who can’t help them selves. Jillian loves walking and collecting beach glass, music and cleaning to relieve stress. She has 4 sons and 4 daughters and 9 grandchildren! A fun fact about Jillian is that she has an intense love for sea turtles and likes to collect sea turtle things.
“Be patient with the vet staff and we can get through anything. Kindness goes a long way.” – Jillian
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I enjoy the feeling of knowing I made a difference in an owner’s life and the pet. Teaching and learning are high priority to me.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Always have a bottle of quick stop on hand for the at home nail trims.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
Everything! I love working to help people with their pets. Seeing the clients and pets and hearing all the stories through the years.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
There was a time when people only used flea + tick during summer, but with ticks on the rise and lyme disease going crazy please give flea + tick preventive all year long to be safe.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I enjoy working in vet med because of all the cats and dogs! I love helping them get better when they are sick. I absolutely love seeing all the new breeds of dogs. Seeing all the happy pets makes my day so much brighter! Also I love rottweilers and hope to own a frenchie one day!
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Keep on your flea/tick meds, and also your Lyme vaccine, Lyme disease is no fun!
Kim started with us in 2024. Kim has an Associates Degree in Radiology and has completed a veterinary assisting program at NorthCoast Medical Training Academy. She has a variety of dogs and cats and enjoys animals more than people. She spends her free time knitting, gardening and camping. Kim has 3 children and a wonderful husband.
“Use a muffin tin for a puzzle bowl” – Kim
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
Being the first point of contact with clients and being an advocate for their pet’s needs to provide the highest quality of care.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Instead of purchasing an expensive puzzle bowl, use a muffin tin to lower the chance of your pet eating too fast.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I love animals and feel a sense of responsibility to take care of them.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
When getting your next dog, get one that matches your energy level (if you’re frail, don’t get a strong energetic breed)
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
Helping pet parents become better pet owners.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
There are no silly questions. Before asking Google/ChatGPT, Call us! We love helping out and offering our tips/tricks that we’ve learned over the years.
Liz is a 2023 graduate of the Animal Behavior College and was hired after completing her internship at our clinic.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
Getting to see all of the furry feline friends!
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
I don’t have one. You’ll have to make it up.
Sarah joined our team in 2019 as a receptionist. She has an Associates Degree in Psychology. She loves reading, traveling, learning new things, watching movies, listening to music, spending time with her sons and going on family road trips. Sarah has a house full of cats and loves those unique kitty personalities.
Dr.Gainey is a 2006 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine and the owner of Belpar Pet Care Centre and Uniontown Veterinary Clinic. In December 2009, he and his wife, Angela, moved to Uniontown and purchased the Uniontown practice and in 2012 he then purchased Belpar. Prior to moving to Uniontown, he had practiced in Dover and Salem, Ohio where he worked with a wide array of medical and surgical cases. Dr. Gainey’s passion for animals comes from growing up on a dairy farm in Holmes County, Ohio. He was raised around holstein dairy cattle, horses, dogs, cats, chickens and pigs. To this day, he does his best to find time to visit his mother, who is an avid rider, and enjoys riding his horse “L.B.” His veterinary interests are in soft tissue and laser surgery, preventative care and chemotherapy. Dr. Gainey has been trained in Regenerative Therapies and Joint Injection by The Veterinarian and Orthopedic Sports Medicine Group. He has pursued regenerative medicine because pets are living longer and need the same cutting-edge treatment that humans have available. He and Angela have 5 four-legged children; Benson, Honza, Annabelle, Watson and Holmes.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I enjoy the application of science, chemistry, anatomy, and math that we do on a daily basis, and being able to apply that to working w/ animals.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
If you notice an illness, do not wait to see if it gets better at least call to talk to someone to see if we can wait or we can get meds to help, or if you need to be seen. Doing nothing tends to allow issues to get worse not better.
Dr. Ayssa Auer joined our staff in March of 2017 after practicing at a small animal clinic in Stow, Ohio. She grew up on a small farm in Indiana and later graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Animal Science in 2009 and continued her education at Purdue to receive her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2014. She enjoys the veterinary field because it allows her to help give a voice to the creatures that don’t have one. Dr. Auer and her husband, Tim, were married in August of 2016. Together, they have many pets! “Chloe-Bear” Shiba-Inu/Basenji mix, “Chloe-Jo” Golden Retriever, “Chloe the Tortoise, “Domino No!” Domestic Shorthair cat, “Tiny Baby Life Coach” her Cat and Mentor, many fish all named “Chloe” except for “Beta-baby!” (can you see that she likes the name Chloe?) In her spare time she enjoys gardening, growing basil and riding horses.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I enjoy the application of science, chemistry, anatomy, and math that we do on a daily basis, and being able to apply that to working w/ animals.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
If you notice an illness, do not wait to see if it gets better at least call to talk to someone to see if we can wait or we can get meds to help, or if you need to be seen. Doing nothing tends to allow issues to get worse not better.
Dr. Michael McAndrew graduated from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2019. He received his Bachelors degree in Animal Science and Biology from the University of Findlay. He enjoys internal medicine and surgery. He loves people, animals and biology, and veterinary medicine is a perfect combination. As a Canton native, he shadowed at Belpar Pet Care Center for 12 years prior to being hired! (Some of you might recognize him!) He knew that he wanted to become a veterinarian from a young age and is now working in the veterinary practice that he grew up with long ago. A fun fact about Dr. McAndrew is that he is SCUBA certified. Dr. McAndrew has a cat named “Schecter.”
“There’s no such thing as a silly question. Ask us; we won’t bite!”
– Dr. McAndrew
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
This is just a placeholder headline, we will replace it once your website copy is finalized.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
This is just a placeholder headline, we will replace it once your website copy is finalized.
Vedessa Meluch is a 2005 graduate from the University of Southern Mindanao, Philippines. While in the Philippines, she studied zoo and swine nutrition along with animal conservation. After shortly moving to the United States, she attended the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada for an intense year of skills and enhancement training in small animal medicine. In 2016, Dr. Meluch became certified by the University of Tennessee to practice canine and feline physical rehabilitation. She also obtained extra curriculum for conservative management of canine and feline osteoarthritis. She has brought to Belpar Pet Care Centre alternative forms of relief and treatment for obesity, osteoarthropathy, post surgical recovery, relief of pain, and help pets with mobility for neuropathic and orthopedic pain. Dr. Meluch and her husband live on a farm and have many cows, horses, ducks and dogs. She spends her free time driving a big tractor while harvesting corn and hay. She isn’t afraid of getting dirty and changing the oil on the tractors, as well!
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
It is a fulfilling and rewarding job – I get to help pets who cannot help themselves. I also get to meet people who have the same love for pets as I do.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Make effort to bring your pets for a fear-free, happy vet visits that do not include exam or medical procedures. These visits focus on counter-conditioning, which helps pets build positive associations with the clinic through treats, praise, gentle handling, and a calm environment by allowing your pet to come in just to say hello, receive treats from staff, and leave on positive note, we can gradually change pet’s perception of the clinic and make future visits much happier and less stressful for them.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I love the animals with the varying personalities, interacting with them and watching them feel better after which treatment, watching them grow up and be a part of their family. I love the medicine and its ever evolving aspects.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Get your pets in a training program for mental and physical stimulation(?). It’s fun for the whole family and builds bonding.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
My Patients! Also being able to make my patients and clients happy.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Don’t take time with your pet for granted, they are never with us for as long as we live.
Nicole has been a member of our staff since June 2016. She became a Registered Veterinary Technician through Kent State University. She enjoys working in the veterinary field because there is always something new to learn every day. In her spare time, Nicole enjoys target shooting, 4 wheeling, reading and spending time with family. She has a white German Shepherd (Sasha) and 5 cats.
“Obesity shortens life span and reduces quality of life. Talk to your vet about healthy treat alternatives!” – Nicole
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
Whether it’s preventive surgery to live healthier, corrective surgery to fix an injury/issue, or emergency surgery to save a life I enjoy being there to help get a pet through it safely and comfortably.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Keeping your pet at a healthy weight can reduce health problems and extend their lives. Pet nutrition can be overwhelming, beware of fads and advertising campaigns. Ask your vet for reliable information on your pet’s specific dietary needs.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I enjoy working in vet med because of the constant opportunity to learn new things. I can then share that knowledge with pet parents, as well as applying that knowledge to my patients.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
I would love to help pet owners understand the importance of annual exams and yearly bloodwork. The odds of catching an illness early on (heart disease/kidney disease) is much greater if the pet is being seen routinely.
Jillian joined our team in September of 2022. She always has been drawn to animals and needs to help and protect those who can’t help them selves. Jillian loves walking and collecting beach glass, music and cleaning to relieve stress. She has 4 sons and 4 daughters and 9 grandchildren! A fun fact about Jillian is that she has an intense love for sea turtles and likes to collect sea turtle things.
“Be patient with the vet staff and we can get through anything. Kindness goes a long way.” – Jillian
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I enjoy the feeling of knowing I made a difference in an owner’s life and the pet. Teaching and learning are high priority to me.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Always have a bottle of quick stop on hand for the at home nail trims.
Angela serves as our Practice Administrator along with being a certified Veterinary Practice Manager, Interpersonal Communications & Business Administration. Ang has over 10 years experience in the veterinary field. She believes the human animal bond is so amazing. Helping pet owners give their pet the happiest, healthiest, longest life possible is very rewarding to her soul. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, reading, quilting and crafts. In 2014, she was honored to be named Business Professional of the year by the Lake Township Chamber of Commerce. She and her husband, Dr.Joe Gainey, have 5 dachshunds; Benson, Annabelle, Honza, Watson and Holmes. They also are very proud parents of a kiddo in the U.S. Navy.
“Pet Insurance! JUST DO IT. It pays for itself and allows you to choose the care you want for your pet. No more balancing care with cost! “
– Ang
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
Witnessing the Human-Animal bond and seeing the love and companionship between pet and pet owner.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Have pet insurance, even basic accident/illness, those that don’t have it wish they did when they need it, and those that do have it are thankful when they need it. One claim can pay for a lifetime of premiums.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
Everything! I love working to help people with their pets. Seeing the clients and pets and hearing all the stories through the years.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
There was a time when people only used flea + tick during summer, but with ticks on the rise and lyme disease going crazy please give flea + tick preventive all year long to be safe.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I enjoy working in vet med because of all the cats and dogs! I love helping them get better when they are sick. I absolutely love seeing all the new breeds of dogs. Seeing all the happy pets makes my day so much brighter! Also I love rottweilers and hope to own a frenchie one day!
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Keep on your flea/tick meds, and also your Lyme vaccine, Lyme disease is no fun!
Kim started with us in 2024. Kim has an Associates Degree in Radiology and has completed a veterinary assisting program at NorthCoast Medical Training Academy. She has a variety of dogs and cats and enjoys animals more than people. She spends her free time knitting, gardening and camping. Kim has 3 children and a wonderful husband.
“Use a muffin tin for a puzzle bowl” – Kim
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
Being the first point of contact with clients and being an advocate for their pet’s needs to provide the highest quality of care.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
Instead of purchasing an expensive puzzle bowl, use a muffin tin to lower the chance of your pet eating too fast.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
I love animals and feel a sense of responsibility to take care of them.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
When getting your next dog, get one that matches your energy level (if you’re frail, don’t get a strong energetic breed)
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
Helping pet parents become better pet owners.
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
There are no silly questions. Before asking Google/ChatGPT, Call us! We love helping out and offering our tips/tricks that we’ve learned over the years.
Liz is a 2023 graduate of the Animal Behavior College and was hired after completing her internship at our clinic.
What do you enjoy about working in Veterinary Medicine
Getting to see all of the furry feline friends!
Do you have a tip for pet owners?
I don’t have one. You’ll have to make it up.
Sarah joined our team in 2019 as a receptionist. She has an Associates Degree in Psychology. She loves reading, traveling, learning new things, watching movies, listening to music, spending time with her sons and going on family road trips. Sarah has a house full of cats and loves those unique kitty personalities.