Our Doctors

Laurie Nelms, DVM, MS – Owner

I am excited to bring my love for emergency veterinary medicine and surgery to the greater Lansing area. I am originally from Alabama, completing an undergraduate degree in microbiology, a masters in anatomy and physiology, and my veterinary degree all at Auburn University—War Eagle! After graduating in 2008, I completed a rotating internship and eventually landed at Michigan State University for a surgical fellowship. During my time at MSU, I also worked in emergency medicine after hours. I found my personality and talents best suited there and have rooted myself in the field, working at various emergency hospitals throughout Michigan and Indiana the past 11 years. I have a 12 year-old Shih Tzu, “Peg” (named after “Lady and the Tramp”). In my spare time, I enjoy traveling, theater, and outdoor activities with my husband and two lovely daughters.

Derek Erickson, DVM

My veterinary career and love for animals began when I started working as a veterinary assistant at the local vet clinic in rural northern Wisconsin where I grew up. I moved to Michigan in 2013 when I was accepted into the college of veterinary medicine at MSU. Following graduation, I started working in emergency and have continued down that route. During this time, I have come to enjoy the multiple facets which emergency provides including internal medicine and surgery. My wife and I live in Lansing with 3 dogs, Willow, Romy and Michele as well as many cats. In my free time I enjoy camping, golfing, fishing, scuba diving and playing magic the gathering.

Nikyda Lake, DVM

I grew up in Gladwin, MI. I obtained my Bachelor of Science degree in biology/physiology from Northern Michigan University in 2011. Afterwards, I went on to graduate from Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 2016. I have been practicing small animal medicine for the past 4 years. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my 2-year-old daughter, Sloane, and two dogs, Stella and Coco as well as being outdoors, playing volleyball, and staying active.

Kennedy Aldrich, DVM

Most of my time is spent at Michigan State University as a 4th year veterinary student. I have worked as an assistant in emergency medicine since 2014. My primary interest is in emergency and mixed (both large and small animal) practice. I am originally from Chelsea, MI, but currently live in the Lansing area with my three horses (Ripley, Rorke, and Copper), cat (Cash), and dog (Ivy). In my free time, I enjoy playing the violin, drawing, and working with my horses.

Alicia Khutic, DVM

Bio coming soon…