Our Team
Dr. Joni Kirch
Emergency Veterinarian
Dr. Kirch was born and raised in Indianapolis. From an early age, she knew her passion for animal care was something special—she never had a second thought about becoming a veterinarian!
In high school, Joni studied hard to be accepted into Purdue University’s pre-vet- program. After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Purdue, she was accepted into their School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating with her DVM in 1993.
As a veterinarian, Dr. Kirch enjoys all aspects of general practice. She finds the relationships she develops with families are the most rewarding parts of her job.
At home, Joni lives with Giggsy, a poodle rescue. When she’s not working, spending time with family, or caring for her pets, Dr. Kirch enjoys playing soccer, her hobby of 30 years. She even travels occasionally to play in tournaments! She’s also hiked through more than 30 of the country’s national parks, and plans to visit many more.
DR. SHAY BENDAVID, DVM
Emergency Veterinarian
All it took for Dr. Bendavid to know that she wanted to work with animals was to foster a group of kittens. Fast forward and she’s now a part of the VSEC South Emergency Team! She obtained her undergraduate degree in Georgia and attended vet school in Illinois.
Her family includes 2 rescue dogs, Mia and Belloni Sandwiches, and three cats – Burrito, Luna and Hamster. When not at work Dr. Bendavid likes to watch Netflix, garden, fostering kittens and spending time with family and friends. We’re thrilled to have her as part of the VSEC South team.
DR. SELENA ROMO
Emergency Veterinarian
Dr. Romo’s very first job in high school was as a Pet Care Specialist at Noah’s Caring Hands in Geist in 2015. She dreamed back then of one day becoming a Veterinarian and practicing Emergency Medicine.
Her family includes a cat named Marisol “Momo,” who loves to wear hats, and a family dog named Bailey who is a miniature Australian Shepherd (with a LARGE personality!). When not at work, Dr. Romo loves to read, cook, take pictures and ride horses…anything to do with being outside.
Dr. Romo is looking forward to being there for you and your pet in your time of need.
Dr. Bridget Thomas
Emergency Veterinarian
A graduate of Franklin Central High School, Dr. Thomas attended Purdue and received her Bachelor’s degree in Animal Sciences with a minor in Biology. She was a member of the Shelter Medicine Club, Pre-Vet Club and played intramural 4×4 sand volleyball. She then attended Lincoln Memorial University where she obtained her DVM. Her veterinary interests include small animal internal medicine, surgery, and emergency and critical care.
When not taking care of patients, Dr. Thomas enjoys going on hikes, walks/runs with her 6-year-old Dalmatian, Vegas, as well as working out at the gym, baking/cooking, traveling, trying out breweries and wineries, and just relaxing, watching TV with a pint of Häagen-Dazs ice cream.
We are excited to have Dr. Thomas as part of the Noah’s & VSEC family!
Dr. Stephanie Noble
Emergency Veterinarian
Stephanie Noble joined the practice in 2024 as an Emergency Veterinarian. Her passion for animals began early, and a middle school experience shadowing her town veterinarian solidified her love for veterinary medicine. She thrives on the dynamic nature of the profession, blending her interests in medicine, animal care, and client education.
Originally from the Chicago suburbs, Stephanie earned her Biology degree with a Spanish minor at Central College in Iowa, where she also played soccer and studied abroad in Wales. She completed her veterinary training at the University of Illinois.
Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys hiking, baking, tending to her plant collection, and caring for her pets: Oliver, a rescue “super mutt,” and Foxy, her princess-like black cat. A nature enthusiast and occasional Betta fish hobbyist, she also loves curling up with a good book or movie.
Josie Imus
Client Service Representative
A native of Fairbanks, Alaska, Josie had an early (and unique!) introduction to animals. Her family raised sled dogs, and her Mom even ran the Yukon Quest! Dog mushing was a big part of her family, and where there are working dogs – there are vet visits. Josie quickly became interested in veterinary medicine.
She worked as a Veterinary Assistant at multiple practices in Fairbanks before moving to Indianapolis and joining the VSEC team in 2015. Her family includes her girlfriend and their daughter, and their four-legged kids: dogs Trance, Basher & Goose, and cats Chaeli, Stitch & Olivia. They also have a very unique fish family – including Bucky, Steve, Clint, Phil, Kate Basil…and 4 catfish known as the Tracksuit Mafia.
Brittany Searcy, rvt
Emergency Technician
Growing up on the west side of Indianapolis, Brittany was the kid taking naps with the dogs outside—sometimes in the dog house! Her affinity with animals at a young age convinced her to become a veterinary professional.
Brittany applied to the Vet Tech Institute at International Business College and was quickly accepted. 18 months later she graduated with her Registered Veterinary Technician’s license. Now she loves coming to work every day at Noah’s Stop 11 Animal Hospital! She especially likes assisting with surgeries because of the challenge, and also is passionate about client education and helping pet owners understand their furry friends’ health.
Brittany’s personal interests include animal behavior, holistic medicine, traveling, crafting, and continuing her education. At home, she has five dogs: Snoopy, Tate, Lily, Chubbers, and Tyson, as well as two cats named Tootie and Lucy who enjoy basking in the sun.
mandy young
Office Manager
Mandy was inspired to work in the veterinary profession by her Newfoundland dog. Since the Newfoundland breed comes with specific health concerns, Mandy had to be very responsible for her beloved pet’s health. It ended up sparking an interest in specialty veterinary medicine, and now Mandy gets to work alongside the pros at Veterinary Specialty and Emergency!
Mandy was born and raised as an only child in Indianapolis. After being a stay-at-home mom for many years, she wanted to re-enter the workforce. She began as a part-time receptionist, then worked full-time in the office of a local florist. When she heard about at opening at VSEC, she took a leap of faith and applied. She was hired on in May of 2014.
Along with husband of 20 years, Mandy lives with her two sons, one daughter, and three dogs: a 14-year old Alaskan Malamute, a seven-year-old pug mix, and her Newfoundland. Mandy says she loves spending time outdoors, as long as it’s not raining or humid! She also likes watching and participating in American Kennel Club dog shows. Her proudest moment came when her 20-month old female puppy took Best of Breed over several male dogs!