About Us

Meet Sharon Startup DVM, DAVDC

Dr. Sharon Startup graduated from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. She began her veterinary career in Knoxville TN in 1985 where she owned a veterinary hospital for many years before she began pursuing specialty dentistry.  She pursued advanced training in dentistry and oral surgery so that she could provide the best dental care for her patients. Dr. Startup completed her American Veterinary Dental College residency and became a Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist™ and oral surgeon in 2014.

Dr. Startup is passionate about teaching. She has taught in Veterinary Schools such as The University of Tennessee and Lincoln Memorial University, in private practices and teaches collaboratively with other specialists around the country.

In her time away from dentistry Dr. Startup enjoys spending time with her daughter and her fur baby Jobie. She enjoys hiking, mountain biking, traveling, and going to the beach.

Katy Burton, DVM, Practice Limited to Dentistry

Dr. Katy Burton graduated from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in May 2000.  Dr. Burton practiced as an associate veterinarian at Lange Animal Hospital in Knoxville for 20 years prior to joining Animal Dental Services.  Her interest in dentistry began to grow in general practice after receiving continuing education from Dr. Startupand she joined the team at ADS in January 2021. She is currently working toward completion of a dentistry residency program and daily pursues the goal of providing the best possible dental care available to our dearly loved four-legged family members.  She is grateful for the opportunity to improve the quality of life of our pets through caring for their dentistry and oral surgery needs.

Dr. Burton grew up on the coast of Oregon, but has called Tennessee home for her entire adult life.  In her time away from dentistry, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and various activities including exercising, hiking, snow skiing, walking her pup, Roo, and beach time on any coastline.

Martin Kennedy, DVM, Dipl. AVCAA

Introducing Dr. Martin Kennedy, an excellent Board-Certified Veterinary Anesthesiologist™ practicing at Animal Dental Services. Dr. Kennedy’s educational journey commenced at Cornell University, where he excelled in Chemical Engineering, earning his Bachelor of Science degree. Fueling his passion for animal medicine, he pursued a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at the University of Wisconsin.

To hone his expertise, Dr. Kennedy completed an intensive residency program specializing in Anesthesia & Pain Management at the University of Wisconsin. He further enriched his knowledge through a valuable rotating internship at the University of Minnesota. Before joining Animal Dental Services, Dr. Kennedy served as the head of anesthesia at a renowned referral practice in Cincinnati until December 2019. Following this, he worked as an associate professor of anesthesia & pain medicine at the University of Minnesota.

Dr. Kennedy’s professional interests encompass a wide range of anesthesia-related subjects, including total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA), high-risk patient management, and multimodal pain control. He derives immense satisfaction from mentoring aspiring anesthesiologists, generously sharing his vast knowledge and experience. With unparalleled skills and an unwavering commitment to his field, Dr. Kennedy strives to deliver exceptional care to each and every patient.