Meet Our Staff

Dr. Joey Aquino was born and raised in a small south Jersey town called Barnegat. His love for animals bloomed from childhood, starting with his very tolerant childhood dog, Mimi. Her presence, along with the support of his parents, was a major factor in his drive to become a veterinarian. 

Dr. Aquino received his bachelor’s degree in animal science from Rutgers University. He received his doctorate in veterinary medicine from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. He completed his clinical year at Oklahoma State University, as well as two externships in Kannapolis, NC and West Point, NE. He practiced both in Mooresville and Charlotte for 5 years before happily hanging his hat here at AAC in 2022. Dr. Aquino was honored to take the torch as owner from Dr. Dave Gallagher in March of 2025.

Here in Charlotte, Dr. Aquino lives with beautiful wife, Chelsea, and his two beloved surrendered/rescued cats, Magnolia and Willow (he has probably forced you to see their faces on his socks or scrubs). He spends his free time collecting records and going to concerts, working out at the gym, watching the Mets, Hornets, Rutgers, and Jets, cooking, hitting trivia at Noda Brewing, and reading. He also does some relief emergency and urgent care work around town from time to time.

Dr. Aquino is passionate about endocrine disease, preventative medicine, parasites (don't get him started - just ask the staff), and forming a cohesive team with pet owners.

Dr. Eleanora Dolan grew up in Connecticut but has lived all over the states. She first came to North Carolina to complete her undergraduate studies at Elon University where she majored in Biochemistry with a minor in Neuroscience in 2015. After working in the field as a veterinarian technician for a year in Chicago she returned to pursuing her dream to become a veterinarian.  She received her veterinary doctorate at St. Matthew’s University in the Cayman Islands and finished up her clinical year at the University of Georgia in 2020.

Once her studies were completed, she practiced for three years in both Big Spring and Arlington, Texas before moving to the Charlotte area. Prior to moving here, Dr. Dolan worked for a year west of Lake Norman in Denver.  Through her experiences she has developed interests in both soft tissue surgery and physical therapy.

 Along her travels, Dr. Dolan has acquired several furry companions including Gatsby, the confident and mischievous black cat, Marshall, the small tabby who is an avid snuggler, and Theo, the St. Bernard/Pyrenees mix who barks at anyone who will listen. In her spare time, she enjoys weightlifting, hiking, reading, and painting.

Dr. Marnie Horton Gallagher has lived in the Charlotte area since 1984.  She graduated from Independence High School, attended received her undergraduate degree from NC State University and graduated with her DVM from Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine.  Dr. Marnie previously worked as a technician at Armstrong Animal Clinic and now is excited to return as a veterinarian!

In 2003, Dr. Marnie married Dr. Dave Gallagher.  They currently have 2 children, Jake and Ella, a dog, Darby and a 3-legged cat, Greyson.  Her interests include the Human-Animal Bond, geriatric patients and wound care.

Dr. Marnie’s passions outside veterinary medicine include her family, gardening and music.  She plays the guitar, sings and is part of the Praise Team at her church.  And, of course, is a Florida Gator fan by marriage!

Courtney has been at Armstrong Animal Clinic since February of 2025 and in the medical field for 4 years. She has a passion for caring for every fur-baby and providing a safe and open environment for clients to express their concerns. During her free time, she loves to spend time with her daughter and husband and paint!