Meet Our Team
Barbra Karner, VMD
Veterinarian / Owner
Dr. Karner grew up in Hopewell, but has lived and worked in the Butler area since graduating from the University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine in 1998. She was in equine practice for 3 years. Shortly before having her first son, she entered small animal practice where she remained for 7 years. In 2008, Dr. Karner accepted the Medical Director position at the Vet Tech Institute in Pittsburgh. She directed this program for 6-1/2 years. Aside from general administration duties, her responsibilities included caring for a large number of dogs, cats, rabbits, farm animals and rodents. She instructed numerous courses, including both small and large animal surgery and medicine. Upon leaving the Vet Tech Institute, Dr. Karner joined a home euthanasia service for pets of all types. She feels that humane, dignified treatment of dying pets is sometimes overlooked in veterinary medicine and at home care during this time is best for the pet and the family. Dr. Karner continues to provide in home euthanasia services, but wanted to offer more for her clients. With much encouragement from family and friends, she made the decision in 2015 to open Muddy Creek Animal Clinic, LLC.
Outside of the office, Dr. Karner is heavily involved in the Butler County 4-H Livestock programs. She also volunteers her time and knowledge to help support the Moniteau Academic Decathlon Team. She is President and founding member of Steel City K-9 Emergency Response team, a 501c3 organization dedicated to finding the missing. She and her now retired Rhodesian Ridgeback, Epi, earned their trailing certification in 2014 as members of the International Police Work Dog Association. She and Epi have responded to numerous calls to assist in searches for missing people. Dr. Karner is also a member of Meridian United Presbyterian Church.
At home, Dr. Karner lives with her husband, Tim, 3 sons and 1 daughter. The family shares their 6 acre farm with their prized herd of Boer goats, cows, chickens, several cats & dogs, and a frog. If she ever has free time, she likes to walk her dog and ride her bike.
Kathleen Medarac, DVM
Veterinarian
Dr. Medarac is a graduate of Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine and has a deep passion for animal health. At home, she is surrounded by a menagerie of pets including a dog named Amos, a cat, a bird and two horses. Her hobbies include spending time with family, her pets, Bible study, horseback riding, dancing, and reading. Her expertise makes a difference in the lives of her pet patients, as well as their human families.
Serena Johnston
Lead Receptionist
Serena is our lead receptionist and the smiling face that greets you in our lobby. With over 20 years of experience in the veterinary office, she is able to make you and your pet feel welcome and comfortable. She claims the best part of her job is the relationships she makes with the people and pets of Butler County. Serena is almost our wonderful groomer on Wednesday mornings. When she is not at work, you can find her at the lake enjoying the water, or spending time with her pets.
Carrie Altman
Office Manager
Carrie is our newly appointed office manager. She recently graduated from Penn Foster for Office Assistant and is currently going to Youngstown State University for Business Manager/Administration. She loves to learn. She is a firm believer that you are never too old to learn. She also recently received her certificate as a Certified Customer Service Representative. Carrie currently lives in New Castle with her Partner, Jason and her son Logan. When she is not at work or doing schoolwork, you can find Carrie spending time with her family at Rodeos.
Ivie Scott
Vet Tech
Ivie is a dedicated veterinary professional with experience in the field since 2022. Her passion for animal care began early though active involvement in 4H and FFA, where she showed goats and beef cattle and developed a strong foundation in animal science. These experiences instilled in her the values of hard work, responsibility, and commitment—qualities she brings to every aspect of her career. Ivie currently resides in Slippery Rock with her partner, Hunter, their chocolate labrador Retriever, Goose, and their cat Clyde. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors—especially hunting and exploring nature—which reflects her deep appreciation for animals, agriculture, and the environment.
Finn
Vet Tech Assistant
Finn is a dedicated veterinary professional that came to us from Suburban Animal Clinic. We are glad that he did. He provides our clinic with laughter. Finn is our talker. He loves to interact with our clients and make sure their needs are met. He is our inventory clerk that helps keep our supplies on the shelves for all our patients. He currently lives in Butler and has a beautiful pup, Cooper and his feline bestie, Fig. We are glad that Finn decided to join us here at MCAC.