Doctors
Dr. Travis Thurman
Owner and DVM
Dr. Thurman, a proud Bakersfield native, is the founder and lead veterinarian at Thurman Veterinary Center. A graduate of Highland High School, he earned his undergraduate degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo before attending veterinary school at St. George’s University, completing his clinical year at Texas A&M University in 2008. After returning to Bakersfield, Dr. Thurman joined the team at San Joaquin Veterinary Hospital before opening the doors to Thurman Veterinary Center in October 2011. Raised in the livestock industry, he got his start in 4-H at just 8 years old and continued through FFA, showing swine, cattle, and sheep. Today, he remains actively involved in supporting local 4-H and FFA groups. While his background is rooted in large animals, Dr. Thurman’s true passion lies in caring for companion animals of all breeds and sizes.
Outside of the clinic, he enjoys spending time on his family’s ranch, traveling, fishing, hiking, snowboarding, and cheering on his favorite sports teams. Dr. Thurman truly feels he is living his dream—combining his love for animals with a life of service, adventure, and community.
Dr. Julie Mischke
Associate Veterinarian DVM
Dr. Julie Mischke has known she wanted to become a veterinarian for as long as she can remember. Inspired by the Black Stallion novels as a child, her passion for animal care has been a lifelong calling. A graduate of Colorado State University, Dr. Mischke eventually made Bakersfield, California her home, where she continues to live out her dream of providing exceptional veterinary care. She is deeply committed to the well-being of every pet she sees and finds fulfillment in the variety and challenges that each day in veterinary medicine brings.
Outside of work, Dr. Mischke enjoys spending time outdoors, riding horses with her grandchildren, and working with her dogs—both in the field and in competitive events such as rally and obedience. She is thrilled to call Thurman Veterinary Center her new home and looks forward to many more years of serving pets and their families.
Dr. B. Elaine Fleeman
Associate Veterinarian DVM
Dr. Fleeman grew up in both Oregon and California and followed her love of animals to Oregon State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. She has a big heart for fostering shelter pets—especially those in need of extra medical care—and loves giving them the chance to heal and find happy homes.
When she’s not caring for patients, you’ll often find her in the garden, traveling across the country to visit family, or snuggled up with her own beloved pets.
Dr. Miller
Associate Veterinarian DVM / Surgical Specialist
Dr. Miller is a dedicated veterinarian with a strong passion for surgery and providing comprehensive care to her patients. She earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from The Ohio State University before completing a surgical internship at Animal Specialty & Emergency Center (ASEC) in Santa Monica. She went on to complete a surgical residency at All Care in southern California and continued on at Bakersfield Regional Veterinary Surgical Specialty (BRVSS), before joining the Thurman Veterinary Center team.
Dr. Miller has a special interest in both orthopedic and soft tissue surgery and also appreciates the role holistic medicine can play in supporting the overall health and well-being of her patients. She enjoys combining his extensive surgical experience with an individualized approach to veterinary care. When she isn’t caring for patients, Dr. Miller enjoys spending her free time relaxing with her Yorkie and his cat.
Managers
Jillian
Business Manager
Jillian is the Business Manager at Thurman Veterinary Center and an integral part of the TVC family. While she may not be in the office every day, her behind-the-scenes contributions help keep the practice running smoothly. Outside of work, Jillian enjoys adventuring with her husband and two children. Together, they love hiking and camping, often traveling across the U.S. to explore new places. At home, Jillian is a proud pet mom to two one-eyed cats, Pete and Penny, and an energetic Australian Shepherd named Hank. Her dedication to both her family and the TVC team is felt in everything she does.
Marissa
Office Manager
Marissa is the Office Manager at Thurman Veterinary Center and brings nearly 20 years of customer service experience to her role. She joined the TVC team in 2015 and has since become an integral part of the practice, helping oversee daily operations while ensuring both clients and their pets receive a welcoming and positive experience. Marissa enjoys supporting the TVC team and takes pride in helping the practice run smoothly while maintaining the high level of care and service our clients have come to expect. Outside of work, Marissa stays busy balancing family life and the many activities that come along with raising three children. She enjoys spending time with her husband and kids and takes every opportunity she can to visit family on the coast and spend time with friends.
Customer Service Representatives
Jeanette
Lead Customer Service Representative
Jeanette was born and raised in Bakersfield, California. She currently works as the Lead Customer Service Representative, where she enjoys connecting with people and helping solve problems every day. She’s a proud parent of four amazing children, and family is at the heart of everything she does. She loves veterinary medicine and shares her home with Kona, her energetic Australian Shepherd. In her free time, she loves heading to the beach and making lasting memories with her loved ones.
Daniela
Customer Service Representative
Daniela is a valued member of the Customer Service Representative team at Thurman Veterinary Center. She has been working in veterinary medicine since 2019 and is known for bringing kindness, compassion, and exceptional service to every client interaction. Daniela’s love for animals began at a young age and continues today with her four beloved dogs—Felix, Milo, Sammy, and Luca. In addition to her work at TVC, Daniela has a passion for baking and runs her own small business, often treating the staff to her delicious homemade creations. When she’s not at the front desk or in the kitchen, Daniela enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends.
Katlynn
Customer Service Representative
Katlynn is a Customer Service Representative who enjoys helping clients and being part of a team that cares for both people and their pets. She is currently attending college, where she is studying to become an elementary school teacher. At home, Katlynn is an animal lover with three dogs and one cat who keep her busy and entertained. Outside of work and school, Katlynn has a variety of hobbies that keep her creative. She enjoys doing nails, cooking, and baking, as well as making homemade pickles, jellies, and jams. Most of all, Katlynn loves spending her free time with her family, friends, and animals.
Amelia
Customer Service Representative
Amelia is a Customer Service Representative who was born in Hanford, California. She enjoys helping others and being part of a team that is dedicated to providing a welcoming and positive experience for both clients and their pets. Amelia brings a friendly and caring personality to her role and enjoys connecting with the families who visit Thurman Veterinary Center. Outside of work, Amelia loves baking, especially homemade sourdough bread, and enjoys expressing her creative side through painting. She also enjoys visiting museums and is a fan of the Twilight movies. In her free time, you can often find her trying a new baking project, working on a painting, or enjoying a Twilight movie marathon.
Veterinary Technicians/Assistants
Garrett
Lead Veterinary Assistant
Garrett is our Lead Veterinary Assistant here at Thurman Veterinary Center. Originally from Washington, his love for animals brought him to our team, where he quickly grew from Kennel Technician to Kennel Supervisor and then to Veterinary Assistant. With his dedication and hard work, he soon became our Supervising Veterinary Assistant, and he loves being able to help pets and their families every day. When he’s not at the clinic, Garrett enjoys spending time with his partner, cheering on his favorite baseball teams, and traveling with their fun-loving French Bulldog, Carter.
Savannah
Registered Veterinary Technician
Savannah is a Southern California native who recently made Bakersfield her home. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Health Science from California State Polytechnic University and has been a licensed Registered Veterinary Technician since 2016. Throughout her career, Savannah has focused on small animal medicine, working primarily with cats and dogs and bringing a wealth of experience and compassion to each patient she cares for. At home, she’s a proud dog mom to Bandit and Gidget. When she’s not at work, Savannah enjoys spending time with her family, exploring the outdoors, and unwinding with a classic Disney movie.
Kimberly
Registered Veterinary Technician
Kim is a Registered Veterinary Technician at Thurman Veterinary Center with a lifelong passion for animal health care. Raised around a variety of animals, she always knew her path would lead to veterinary medicine. Kim graduated from the San Joaquin Veterinary Technician Program and holds an Associate’s degree in Animal Science from Bakersfield College. She brings a broad range of experience to the team, having worked in General Practice, Surgical Specialty, Shelter, and Emergency medicine. Kim is currently pursuing a specialty certification in Clinical Practice or Nutrition to further expand her skills. Outside of work, she enjoys working out, going to rock concerts, and spending quality time with her family. At home, Kim is kept busy by her two dogs, Gomez and Oli, two cats, Moody and Penne, and her Sulcata Tortoise, Tonka.
Eileen
Veterinary Assistant
Eileen is a Veterinary Assistant at Thurman Veterinary Center with a strong passion for animal care and a heart for both pets and their people. She completed the Veterinary Technician program at Bakersfield College in 2019 and has been working in the veterinary field ever since. With plans to continue her education, Eileen aspires to become a veterinarian in the future. Her compassion and dedication shine through in every interaction. Outside of work, Eileen enjoys cooking, spending time outdoors with friends, family, and her pets, and exploring new places through travel. She shares her home with two dogs, Blaze and Smokey, and two bunnies, Taiyou and Tsuki.
Molly
Veterinary Assistant
Molly is a Veterinary Assistant at Thurman Veterinary Center with a strong passion for animal care and science. She recently earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from California State University, Bakersfield, and is excited to continue building her career working with animals. Molly brings enthusiasm and compassion to her role, always striving to provide the best care possible. At home, she enjoys spending time with her three dogs—Sadie, an English Bulldog; Cooper, a Labrador Mix; and Palmer, a French Bulldog—along with her cat, Milo. In her free time, Molly loves traveling to new places and relaxing with a fishing pole in hand.
Faliciti
Veterinary Assistant
Faliciti is a Veterinary Assistant at Thurman Veterinary Center who brings experience, passion, and a lifelong love of learning to the team. She began her veterinary career in Tehachapi in 2018 and recently relocated to Bakersfield to continue her journey at TVC. Faliciti is always seeking to grow her knowledge—often through her love of reading—and she’s determined to advance her career in veterinary medicine as far as possible. For her, the sky’s the limit. Outside of work, she cherishes time with her son and moms, especially when they’re building Lego sets or adding to her ever-growing Harry Potter collection.
Genasea
Veterinary Assistant
Genasea has always had a passion for animals and joined our team after graduating from San Joaquin Valley College’s Veterinary Assistant Program. Known for her upbeat outlook and positive attitude, she first started with us as a Customer Service Representative before moving to the Kennel Assistant Team. Through her hard work and dedication, she quickly advanced into training as a Veterinary Assistant, where she now enjoys working hands-on with our amazing patients every day. Outside of work, Genasea loves cheering on her favorite team (Go Raiders!), visiting the beach, reading a good book, and spending time with her seven siblings.
Ashleigh
Veterinary Assistant
Ashleigh is a Veterinary Assistant with a strong educational background and a passion for animal care. She earned her Associate of Arts degree in Animal Science from Bakersfield College and recently graduated from Platt College with an Associate of Arts degree in Veterinary Technology. Ashleigh has a special love for horses, dogs, and gorillas, and hopes to one day further her career in animal research, with a dream of working with primates.
Miranda
Veterinary Assistant
Born and raised in Bakersfield, California, with strong roots in Mexico, Miranda has been surrounded by animals and equestrian culture for as long as she can remember. Growing up with 14 horses and two dogs, she began competing in both Mexican rodeo and English horse jumping at the age of six. Her lifelong connection with animals inspired her passion for veterinary medicine and led her to earn her Certified Veterinary Assistant credential. Since joining the Thurman Veterinary Center team as a kennel technician, Miranda has continued to grow her skills and knowledge and has now advanced into a Veterinary Assistant position. She is excited to gain even more hands-on experience, continue her education, and further pursue her career in veterinary medicine.
Kennel Technicians
Aracely
Lead Kennel Technician
Aracely is a valued member of the Thurman Veterinary Center team who has continued to grow and advance within the practice. She was born in Ventura, California, and spent part of her life in Jalisco, Mexico, before settling in Bakersfield in 2018. After graduating from the SJVC Veterinary Assistant Program, Aracely joined our team as a Kennel Assistant, where her dedication, leadership, and strong work ethic led to her advancement to Kennel Technician Supervisor. She hopes to continue her education and one day become a Registered Veterinary Technician. At home, she adores her fluffy domestic medium hair cat, Michi. In her free time, Aracely enjoys hiking and exploring new places, trying new restaurants, watching crime shows and action movies, and spending sunny days at the beach with her son.
Mikayla
Kennel Technician
Mikayla is a Kennel Technician who grew up in Wasco and has always had a passion for animal care. She graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Science and a minor in Biochemistry, and her ultimate goal is to become a Veterinarian. In high school, she was actively involved in FFA, where she raised and showed market hogs, further fueling her love for animals. At home, she enjoys spending time with her three dogs—Coco, Nala, and Luna.
Alayna
Kennel Technician
Alayna is a Kennel Technician who first joined the Thurman Veterinary Center team while completing her college externship. During her externship, her strong work ethic, dependability, and dedication to animal care made her a natural fit for the team. She enjoys continuing to build her knowledge and hands-on experience while making sure each pet in her care feels comfortable, safe, and loved. Outside of work, Alayna loves traveling and visiting Disneyland whenever she gets the chance. She is also a fan of scary movies and has a special love for reptiles. Alayna spent time as a competitive cheerleader, an experience that helped develop the teamwork, dedication, and determination she continues to bring to her role at Thurman Veterinary Center.
Joeleen
Kennel Technician
Joeleen is a compassionate and dedicated Kennel Technician who has always had a deep love for animals. Born in Los Angeles and raised in Kern County from a young age, she followed her passion by enrolling in the Veterinary Assistant program at San Joaquin Valley College. Her lifelong connection to animals is clear—she currently shares her home with two dogs, a cat, a tortoise, and a fish. Outside of work, Joeleen enjoys spending quality time with her close-knit family, including her three sisters, and loves to travel whenever she gets the chance.
Stevie
Kennel Technician
Stevie is a Kennel Technician with a genuine love for animals and a passion for providing them with compassionate care. Her interest in the veterinary field grew through her experience attending ROC and working at the City Animal Control, where she gained valuable hands-on experience caring for animals from a variety of backgrounds. Stevie especially enjoys spending time with her own pup and working on training her, which has further strengthened her interest in animal behavior and care. Outside of work, Stevie is very family-oriented and loves spending quality time with those closest to her. She also enjoys traveling, exploring new places, and trying new foods whenever she gets the chance. Stevie is excited to continue expanding her knowledge and experience while caring for the patients at Thurman Veterinary Center.
Jazmine
Kennel Technician
Jazmine is a caring and enthusiastic Kennel Technician with a genuine love for animals and a passion for helping others. She enjoys making sure each pet in her care feels comfortable, safe, and loved while providing them with the attention they deserve. Jazmine values being part of a team where she can continue learning and contribute to the well-being of both patients and their families. Outside of work, Jazmine enjoys expressing her creative side through painting and drawing. She also loves going to the gym and spending quality time with her family and friends. Her compassionate personality and love for animals make her a wonderful addition to the Thurman Veterinary Center team.
Ismael
Kennel Technician
Ismael is a Kennel Technician with a strong passion for working with dogs and providing them with attentive, compassionate care. He attended Carrington College, where he is preparing to graduate and continue building his knowledge and experience in the veterinary field. Ismael brings a strong work ethic to his role and enjoys being part of a team dedicated to the health and well-being of animals. Outside of work, Ismael enjoys playing tennis and spending time reading. He is excited to continue learning, growing in the veterinary field, and building relationships with the pets and families at Thurman Veterinary Center.
Rhylan
Kennel Technician
Rylan is a dedicated Kennel Technician whose love for animals has been a meaningful part of her life from an early age. Growing up, she helped foster dogs and volunteered her time at several animal shelters, experiences that strengthened her passion for animal care and taught her the importance of compassion and patience. Animals have always held a special place in Rylan’s life, providing companionship and emotional support while inspiring her to pursue a career working with them. Rylan brings a strong work ethic and an eagerness to learn to her role at Thurman Veterinary Center. She is passionate about expanding her knowledge and gaining hands-on experience while ensuring that every animal in her care feels safe, comfortable, and well cared for.
Grooming
Kalynn
Groomer
Kadence
Groomers Assistant
Kadence was born in Bakersfield, California, and spent part of her childhood in Missouri before returning to Bakersfield during high school. With a lifelong passion for animals, she joined the Thurman Veterinary Center team and is currently pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. Kadence has recently expanded her experience by joining our grooming department as a Groomer’s Assistant, where she enjoys helping pets look and feel their best while continuing to grow her skills in animal care. Her love for animals extends beyond the workplace, as she shares her home with a lively variety of pets, including dogs, geckos, and a python. Her appreciation for animals of all shapes and sizes continues to inspire her both personally and professionally.