Meet The Team
Dr. Rick Hittner
Head Veterinarian
Dr. Rick Hittner D.V.M. is a 1993 graduate of the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. During his last year of study at the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine teaching hospital, he concentrated his studies and developed his proficiency in all aspects of small animal care.
Dr. Hittner moved to Ft. Smith to enter small animal exclusive practice in 1994, took over Arkansas Veterinary Clinic in 2006, and built the current hospital location in 2010.
Dr. Hittner’s goals in practice, are to provide your family member with the highest quality medical, dental, and surgical care possible. He strives to do this in a family-oriented atmosphere making your visit as comfortable as possible.
In his off time, his hobbies are anything outdoors, weightlifting, and riding his motorcycles.
Dr. Alisha Bottoms
Veterinarian
Dr. Alisha Bottoms received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Ross University School. With a strong dedication to compassionate care, Dr. Bottoms treats every patient as her own, specializing in soft tissue surgery, dental procedures, internal medicine, and exotics. She aspires to create a positive impact in the lives of every patient under her care. Raised in Paris, Arkansas, her supportive family and marriage to Quinton Bottoms, her best friend, has shaped her values. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, traveling, fishing, relaxing with her husband, and crafting (including knitting, crocheting, embroidery, weaving, spinning, and yarn). An adventurer at heart, she has traveled to several countries, lived in the Caribbean, and even climbed a volcano. Dr. Bottoms shares her home with 3 dogs (Mr. Scruffy, Annabelle, and Bunny) as well as 4 cats (Edger, Helga, Sugars, and Galaxy).
Erin Sanders
I have been with the Arkansas Veterinary team for one year. I’m currently a veterinary assistant, but I’m working towards getting my license to become a certified veterinary technician. I look forward to achieving this goal. I enjoy our quick-paced environment and the care we provide for our patients and clients. I treat each patient as if they were my own. I pride myself in making each visit as stress-free as possible and providing the best care every patient deserves.
Animals have always been a big part of my family, and in my free time, I enjoy spending time with them. I also enjoy fishing and hunting.
I have 2 dogs, Bailey, Cash and one cat named Kity Kity. I love watching them play. Their health and happiness are my priorities.
Michelle Lee
I have been with the Arkansas Veterinary team for almost 6 months. I’m one of the clinic’s receptionists. I enjoy helping our clients in need and love to greet them with a smile. I enjoy helping our clients in any way possible, including keeping a stress-free and friendly environment. Animals have always been important to me, and I want them to receive the best care possible.
I enjoy spending time fishing, hiking, riding 4-wheelers, and traveling.
I have 3 dogs, Winston, Willow, and Galileo. My newest addition is a cat named Donut. I adopted her, and she has been so easy to love.
LeAnn
I’m a native Arkansan who has been in the veterinary field since graduating from High School. I’ve worked in all positions within a veterinary clinic throughout the years. I’m so excited that I joined this team as the Hospital Manager.
I’m a lover of all things nature and enjoy spending time outdoors as often as I can. I enjoy hiking, bird watching and gardening.
I enjoy spending time with my family. My husband of 16 years and I are blessed with two beautiful children. Our daughter just started driving and our son is in his second year of middle school. They keep us busy with multiple athletic events and school functions.
We have a yellow lab named Tootsie Pop and 5 incredibly rotten cats. Elway, Robert Lee, Lizzie Ann, Rue and Claudius Maximus complete our family.
LeAnn Nolewajka
Britnay
Manon
Bio coming soon!