Forest Acres Animal Hospital specializes in skilled, practical veterinary medicine for animals of all life stages, with comprehensive services such as boarding and grooming.
We understand that hospital visits for your pet can be a stressful time, and pride ourselves in our welcoming environment. We promise to improve your veterinary experience with a calming and quiet clinic, individualized care from our trained staff, and the latest advances in veterinary medicine.
We are conveniently located on Forest Drive across from Richland Mall, five minutes from downtown Columbia in the heart of Forest Acres.
Dr. Jessica Graham has been caring for pets and their people since earning her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Auburn University in 2009. Her career has taken her through a variety of small animal hospitals, including her own home visit practice, before she became the proud owner and full-time veterinarian at Forest Acres Animal Hospital.
With a special passion for feline medicine, Dr. Graham is Fear Free Certified and committed to making veterinary visits as stress-free as possible for all her patients. She also loves supporting small businesses and fostering a close-knit, community-focused practice.
When she’s not at the clinic, you can find Dr. Graham staying active at the gym, out for a run, or unwinding with a good book.
Dr. Crystie Peeler has been providing exceptional veterinary care for over 25 years, having earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from North Carolina State University in 1999. She brings a wealth of experience in general practice, with advanced skills in internal medicine and a deep commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care. In addition to her work at Forest Acres Animal Hospital, she also practices at Dutch Fork Animal Hospital.
Beyond the clinic, Dr. Peeler enjoys spending time outdoors—whether hiking, fishing, or attending music festivals. She cherishes time with her family, including her husband and two children.
Joey has been an essential part of the Forest Acres Animal Hospital team since July 2020, bringing over 25 years of experience in veterinary medicine, including two years in emergency care. A Clemson University graduate, he holds degrees in Animal & Veterinary Science and Biological Science, combining his expertise with a strong passion for animal care. Joey does a little bit of everything at the hospital, from maintaining the building and managing inventory to providing exceptional veterinary care and handling repair work. He’s also the go-to person for our trickier venipuncture needs. His skills and versatility make him an invaluable member of our team.
Outside of work, Joey stays busy cheering on his two teenage kids, who are active in high school wrestling and lacrosse. A dedicated Labrador Retriever owner, he shares his home with Marshall (Yellow), Wyatt (Black), and Doc (Chocolate). In his free time, he enjoys watching college football, hunting, and spending time outdoors.
Maddie has been dedicated to animal care for over a decade, starting her career at Banfield during high school. She has been an integral part of the FAAH team for the past four years. Maddie holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from USC and will graduate this May with an associates degree in veterinary technology, followed by becoming a Licensed Veterinary Technician.
Passionate about advocating for proper care for animals who cannot speak for themselves, Maddie believes in building meaningful relationships with both patients and their human families. She is committed to delivering exceptional patient care, client education, and support during challenging cases—key aspects of a technician's role that truly make a difference.
Outside of work, she enjoys reading, hiking, and relaxing at home with her two dogs, Loki, an 11-year-old Border Collie mix, and Bowser, an energetic 11-month-old bully mix.
Lindsey joined Forest Acres Animal Hospital in September 2023 with no prior veterinary experience, but through hard work, dedication, and a natural talent for animal care, she has grown into an essential part of our team. Quick to learn and eager to help, she does everything for our patients—whether assisting with treatments, comforting nervous pets, or just lending an ear to their owners – she will always go the extra mile to ensure they receive the best care possible.
Originally from Moncks Corner, SC, Lindsey moved to Columbia to study marketing and advertising at the University of South Carolina before her lifelong love for animals led her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. She is currently working toward becoming a licensed veterinary technician through Penn Foster College while also lending her marketing skills to help manage our social media. Her creativity shines both in and out of the clinic—she's an artist, an innovator, and always finding new ways to make our hospital the best it can be.
Lindsey has a special soft spot for spicy cats, shepherds, and Yorkies. At home, she shares her life with her boyfriend Zane, their three dogs, one cat, and a dwarf hamster. In her free time, she enjoys crocheting, reading, and spending time with family. Smart, talented, and truly one of a kind, Lindsey’s passion for animals and unwavering dedication makes her an invaluable member of the Forest Acres Animal Hospital family.
Abby has been with us since August 2024 and began working in the veterinary field in 2022. She earned her B.S. in Biological Sciences from USC and has dreamed of working in veterinary medicine since she was 7 years old. Abby is currently applying to Veterinary school and hopes to work in both large and small animal medicine, though her current experience is in small animal general practice.
Abby has three cats and a dog, who hold a special place in her heart. She’s passionate about learning new things, whether it’s in the veterinary field or getting to know the amazing people around her. Outside of work, Abby enjoys reading and spending quality time with family and friends, often indulging in video games and board games.
Cat joined Forest Acres Animal Hospital in September 2023, bringing years of experience in animal care and boarding management. As our Kennel Lead, she ensures every pet is safe, comfortable, and well- loved. She’s also cross-trained in reception, grooming, and veterinary assisting, making her a true jack of all trades.
Currently, she’s pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Animal Care and Behavior (Year 3/4) and working through the Licensed Veterinary Technician program at Penn Foster (Year 2/4).
A lifelong animal lover, Cat has worked with domestic and exotic animals since childhood. She’s the clinic’s official bug rescuer, making sure every critter gets a safe escape outside. At home, she cares for seven cats, five dogs, eleven crabs (her favorite), four frogs, and a snake.
Outside of work, she enjoys reading, crafting book nooks, and making her coworkers laugh. Her expertise, humor, and passion for animals make her an asset to our team!
Kristen has been an integral part of our team since August 2020, bringing kindness, dedication, and a love for animals to everything she does. As a kennel technician, she ensures that every pet who boards with us receives top-notch care, plenty of playtime, and a comfortable, loving environment. Her passion for animals shines through in everything she does, making her an invaluable part of our team.
At home, Kristen cares for a full house of beloved pets, including her dogs Callie, Scrappy (who just turned 18! ), and Daisy, her cat Ivy (aka Keet), and her gecko Piper. Kristen’s passions include music (especially Taylor Swift), crafting, cats, and, of course, her beloved Callie. Her warmth and enthusiasm make her a valued member of the Forest Acres Animal Hospital family!
Candice started her career in veterinary medicine in 2013, working as a veterinary technician at Banfield and CVETS before joining Forest Acres Animal Hospital in 2021. She now leads our reception team, bringing a wealth of experience in both client management and veterinary care.
Candice has two kids, a dog, and two cats (one of whom is a tripod), all of whom are near and dear to her heart. She loves spending time at the beach and is always surrounded by family.
Laura joined our team in January 2023 after spending 17 years in human medicine, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep passion for client care. She has the most empathetic and compassionate heart, always going above and beyond to support both our clients and their beloved pets. Laura takes care of everyone who walks through our doors, ensuring they feel welcomed and understood.
Her favorite part of working here is the incredible team and the strong sense of teamwork that makes every day fulfilling. When she’s not at the front desk brightening our clients’ days, Laura loves spending time with her grandbabies, shopping, or relaxing by the beach.