BAYSIDE HOSPITAL FOR ANIMALS - Key Persons


Dr. Avery Leonik

Job Titles:
  • Practice Manager
Dr. Leonik is a Mississippi native. She grew up in Meridian, Mississippi, and completed her undergraduate studies at the University of West Alabama. She then received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University (Hail State)! Dr. Leonik enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine, but she particularly loves internal medicine and endocrinology. She is a self-proclaimed crazy cat lady and really loves the senior smooshies! Dr. Leonik dreamed of making the Emerald Coast her permanent home. She spends her time outside of the clinic with her three awesome dogs, Cookie Mama, Little Mama, and Kevin. You can usually find Dr. Leonik on the beach with a good book during her off time.

Dr. Ben Williams

Dr. Williams grew up in Meridian, MS with his parents and one younger brother. He attended Mississippi State University for his undergraduate studies in Animal and Dairy Science. He then went on to receive his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Mississippi State University's College of Veterinary Medicine in May of 2018. In the spring of 2018 after graduation he moved to Fort Walton Beach and started his career here at Bayside Hospital for Animals. In September 2021, Dr. Williams took ownership of Bayside Hospital for Animals. Dr. Williams has many interest in companion animal medicine including, ophthalmology, dentistry, internal medicine, and surgery. In Dr. Williams spare time he enjoys spending it with his beautiful wife, Katie, and their adorable dog, Annie, which he adopted in his second year of veterinary school. His other interest include golfing and spending time on our gorgeous white sandy beaches.

Kasey Cooley

Kasey is a long time resident of Niceville and has worked in the veterinary field for over 20 years. She came to Bayside Hospital for Animals in 1999. As the senior receptionist, she strives to ensure the front desk team is organized and prepared to serve our customers in the most efficient and friendly manner possible. Over the years Kasey has formed close relationships with many of our clients, whom she considers members of the "Bayside family." She is seen here with Annie Gross. Kasey's life-long love of animals has culminated in her living with four cats, Yogi, Boo Boo, Syndie, and Onyx (her tripod kitty) along with a rescued dog, Jolie, who thinks she is really a cat too.