Meet Our Team
Compassionate Care from People Who Truly Love What They Do
At Creature Comforts Veterinary Hospital, we’re more than just pet people — we’re your neighbors, lifelong animal lovers, and trusted partners in your pet’s health.
Every member of our team is here because they genuinely care about animals and the people who love them.
From the front desk to the exam room, you’ll always be met with a smile, a listening ear, and the kind of care we’d want for our own pets.
Veterinarian & Owner
Dr. Sarah Stanley
Dr. Sarah Stanley has been a member of the Columbia, SC community for as long as she can remember. Her parents, Leanne and Barry Fishburne, moved to Columbia when she was very young. She graduated from Spring Valley High School in 2013 and from Clemson University in 2016. She then attended the University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine and graduated in 2020. Her professional career kept her in Georgia for four years before moving back home with her Camden, SC native husband, Derek Hunt Stanley, Jr..
Dr. Stanley’s hobbies include watching sports, playing video games, and cuddling with her pets. At time of writing, the Stanleys have two dogs and two cats.
Customer Service Specialist
Leanne Fishburne
My name is Leanne Fishburne and I have a passion for all things in the animal kingdom, from Bald Eagles and other raptors to softshell turtles, songbirds and honey bees. Although I am not a native South Carolinian, I have lived here for most of my adult life where my husband and I raised our children. I’ve worked at various charitable
organizations for about 30 years. Currently, I am a volunteer with the Kershaw County Fire Service where I help with community outreach.
I love working at Creature Comforts Veterinary Hospital because you never know what is going to come in the door. My favorite will always be cute little puppies and kittens but it is also important for well patient annual visits and sick care. When I run out of cuddles at work, I can snuggle up to my sweet rescue dog, Bowman, and my puppy Kirby.
Veterinary Assistant
Maricella "Lucy" Rios
Hi everyone! I’m Maricella Rios, and I’m so excited to be joining the team at Creature Comforts!
I’ve worked in both animal hospitals and pet pharmacies over the years. Caring for animals has always been a huge part of my life. I love building connections with clients and their pets and being part of a team that truly makes a difference.
When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time staying active and enjoying the outdoors. I’m really looking forward to meeting all of you and your furry family members!
Customer Service Specialist
Brady Thompson
Hi! I'm Brady Thompson and I love being a part of this team. Originally I am from Circleville, OH but after having moved to a few different states, I have settled in Columbia, SC. My husband and I have two daughters and are a family of Gamecock fans!
I have been working in veterinary medicine on and off for about 13 years, taking a pause to be at home with my daughters. Now that they are grown, I am happy to be back in the vet field. I enjoy working at Creature Comforts and love that no two days are the same. It is a joy to see our clients and their pets, and we are definitely a fun and energetic team.
I have a dog named Bennett and a cat named Forest that I love spending time with at home when I am off, as well as working in my backyard where I often have the opportunity to see deer!
Care You Can Feel Good About
When you visit us, you're not just getting expert veterinary care — you're joining a veterinary practice that values honesty, relationships, and treating every pet like family. We can’t wait to meet you!
Call us at (803) 400-6696 today or book online.