Our Staff

Dr. Ava Frick

By many she’s called a “miracle worker.” What she does for animals is said, “to be nothing short of amazing.” NBC TV-DSDK has titled her, “St. Louis’ own Animal Whisperer.”

Her veterinary career has transitioned from one of a busy conventional practitioner, specializing in rabbits, to a specialty in the field of chiropractic and animal rehabilitation. Always looking and reaching beyond the customary, in 1997 Dr. Ava became interested in physical therapy and ventured into the human field seeking knowledge about other applications of pain management she could use for animals.

Growing up on a farm and working at Purina’s Research Farm, nutrition has remained a focus of her current practice. There she uses a body systems approach to address function from a nutritional perspective.

Professional Organizations:

• American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association
• American Academy of Pain Management
• American Canine Sports Medicine Association
• American Veterinary Chiropractic Association, Lifetime Member
• Missouri Veterinary Medical Association
• Veterinary Botanical Medical Association
• Veterinary Wound Management Society

Honors and Awards:

• 2006 Hartz Veterinarian of the Year Runner-Up
• Franklin County Humane Society of Missouri
• Visionary Award
• International Who’s Who of Professionals
• Service Award, C.H.A.M.P. Assistance Dogs, Inc.
• Arizona Humane Society Service Award

You can find out more about Dr. Ava Frick at her website www.AvaFrick.com

Joan Groff

Joan has worked with Dr. Frick for many many years. Her warm smile and compassion for animals and people alike are two of her greatest attributes. Joan keeps the place decorated and looking beautiful both inside and out.

Janie Ziegler

Janie has a passion for helping the animals at the clinic and working with Dr. Frick and loves seeing the remarkable results. She helps with organization and keeping things run smoothly. In her spare time she enjoys playing golf.

Charity Sperry

Charity was born and raised in Lebanon, MO where she worked as a cosmetologist. Four years ago, her husband and two children and herself moved to Union to be closer to the city. After lots of consideration, Charity decided to pursue her dreams of working with animals and went back to school. She received her Associates degree in Veterinary Technology of applied Science. She now works at AFC and enjoys helping make a difference in the lives of the animals.

Sarah Suntrup

Sarah is our receptionist. Whether it’s assisting clients on the phone or showing our high quality products to customers from our diverse selection, she is happy to help. Sarah is passionate about the health and healing of all animals and being able to be a part of their progress. She’s rode horses since she was a little girl and enjoys a leisurely trail ride on the weekends.

Reyna Rothschild

Reyna has been with Dr. Frick for many years. While she has moved on to other full time employment, Reyna is still a wonderful asset in our accounting department. And it is possible that on a really desperate day you just might hear her voice or see her smiling face at the clinic.