Meet Our Doctors

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Dr. Ralph Ashley earned his B.S. in Animal Science from North Carolina State University in 1973 and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Georgia in 1977. That same year, he began practicing at Jordan Veterinary Hospital, where he has proudly served pets and families ever since.
Deeply involved in the community, Dr. Ashley has served on the Davidson County Board of Health and is an active member of First Baptist Church, the Lexington Kiwanis Club, and the Lexington Choral Society.
He and his wife, Jean, are blessed with three children, nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and their beloved Westie, Nicky, an 11-year-old who proudly holds the title of “best dog.”
Dedicated to lifelong learning, Dr. Ashley enjoys staying current with the latest protocols and advancements in veterinary medicine, whether through continuing education or collaboration with his colleagues at Lexington Veterinary Associates. He especially loves seeing new puppies and kittens during their first visits, helping families start their pets off on the right paw.
Dr. Ashley rotates between all three of our hospital locations, so no matter where you visit, you may have the chance to see him in action.
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​Dr. Crystal Leath earned her bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from North Carolina State University in 2008, followed by her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Auburn University in 2013.
Outside of work, life is full and busy with her husband, Michael, their two energetic boys, Matthew and Andrew, and a lively household of pets—two Dobermans (Sailor and Loki), two cats (Captain and Ace), and a lizard named Lizzie.

Dr. Leath has a special interest in internal medicine and ophthalmology. She is also deeply committed to client education and patient care, taking time to ensure families feel confident and supported in making the best decisions for their pets’ health.

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​Dr Salli Steward earned her B.S. from UNC–Chapel Hill in 1992, followed by her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from NC State College of Veterinary Medicine in 1996. A proud member of this community, she spent much of her childhood at her grandfather’s business, Hartley’s Exxon, right here in town.Dr. Steward joined Lexington Veterinary Associates in 2003 and has been a valued member of our team ever since. She and her husband, Rob, live in Midway, where they raised two children—now grown and thriving. These days, their home is happily ruled by her beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Finley and Reese.
With a strong passion for surgery, Dr. Steward stays up to date on the latest techniques and advancements, performing the majority of procedures at Jordan Veterinary Hospital. Equally dedicated to client education and patient care, she takes the time to guide families in making the best decisions for their pets’ health and well-being.
​Dr. Lauren Whitley received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from North Carolina State University's College of Veterinary Medicine in 2006. In 2007, she became a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner and in 2013 she became a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist. She has a passion to help improve mobility and relieve pain in her patients.  Dr Whitley also enjoys management of chronic diseases as well as preventative wellness care. She grew up watching her father, Dr. Ralph Ashley, serve the people and pets of Davidson County and she is delighted to be able to continue his legacy. She joined Lexington Veterinary Associates in 2023.  When not hard at work at one of Lexington's 3 hospital locations, Dr. Whitley enjoys baking, reading, and spending time with her husband, two sons, a bearded dragon named Clay, and a "practically perfect in every way" Golden Retriever named Poppy.

​Management & Receptionist