Meet Our Veterinarians and Support Staff
At Companion Animal Hospital, our dedicated team of veterinarians and staff are at the heart of what we do, bringing unique skills and a gentle touch to every appointment. We're proud to offer a low-stress experience, backed by our certification in Low-Stress Handling techniques. Get to know our friendly team in person by scheduling a visit!
Steve Byers, DVM Owner
Dr. Steve Byers has owned and practiced veterinary medicine at Companion Animal Hospital since February 1995. Originally from Wichita, he attended Kansas State University where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in biology in 1993. After college, Dr. Byers attended Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He earned his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 1995. Dr. Byers is professionally interested in surgery and he greatly enjoys making a difference in an animal’s life.
Dr. Byers is married to Dr. Tammy Truesdell, who is a co-owner and practicing veterinarian at Companion Animal Hospital. In his free time, he enjoys raising and showing horses, volunteering at his church, and coaching little league football and baseball.
Tammy Truesdell, DVM Owner
Dr. Tammy Truesdell has owned and practiced veterinary medicine at Companion Animal Hospital since February 1995. She hails from Wichita and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Wichita State University in 1988. Dr. Truesdell earned cum laude honors with departmental honors in biology. After college, she attended Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 1993. Dr. Truesdell is a member of the American Society of Veterinary Behaviorists.
At home, Dr. Truesdell and her husband, Dr. Steve Byers, have two cats named Harry and Si. They have eight children—four of whom are in college and four of whom are still at home and active in sports, horse showing, and church. In her free time, Dr. Truesdell enjoys raising and showing horses and volunteering at church.
Kayd Byers, DVM Veterinarian
Dr. Byers joined Companion Animal Hospital after graduating from KSU College of Veterinary Medicine in May of 2018, graduating with honors (magna cum laude). He is the son of doctors and owners Steve Byers and Tammy Truesdell. Dr. Kayd Byers has a strong interest in internal medicine and surgery and strives to provide top of the line care for all his patients.
Dr. Byers is married and currently lives in the Wichita area. He and his wife have a small herd of animals at home. Some of his activities outside of work consist of being with family, watching movies, and running/weight lifting.
Destiny Byers Office Manager
Destiny joined the Companion Animal Hospital team in 2011. She moved away for two years while her husband, Dr. Kayd Byers, completed his first years of veterinary medicine. When she rejoined our team, she became the manager of our Maize location. She is proud to be part of a low-stress veterinary clinic that allows her the time to get to know each individual patient and their family.
When Destiny is not at work she spends time with her own animals, consisting of five cats, four dogs (two Chihuahuas, a Jack Russell terrier, and a Golden Retriever) two rats, an African grey parrot, a horse, two axolotls, and four chickens.
Her hobbies and interests include traveling to new places, jamming out at concerts, and all things Disney-related.
Estella Meraz Lead Veterinary Technician / Dog Trainer
Estella has been a dedicated member of the Companion Animal Hospital team since August 2002. She earned her Associate degree in Veterinary Technology from Colby Community College in 2017 and is a certified Karen Pryor Training Partner. In 2020, she added to her credentials by becoming an evaluator for the Canine Good Citizen program and achieving low-stress certification. She is also an active member of the Pet Professional Guild and the Pet Professional Alliance of Wichita.
Estella appreciates working at Companion Animal Hospital for its commitment to low-stress practices, which align with her dog training philosophy. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her Boxer mix, Omar, and her four children. Her daughter Reyna recently began her college journey at Pratt on a soccer scholarship, while Soledad, a high school student, has a passion for baking. Alysia, in middle school, shares her sister's competitive spirit in soccer, and her son Julian, the youngest, enjoys the doting affection of his family.
Trinity Veterinary Technician
Bio coming soon.
Amy Morgan Receptionist
Bio coming soon.