Finding Your Place: How One Vet Built Community Through Compassionate Care When people think about veterinary care, they often picture medical equipment, diagnoses, and clinical procedures. And yes, those are all essential parts of what I do. But for me, being a veterinarian has always been about something much deeper—it’s about connection. The bond we share with our pets is real, powerful, and personal. That’s why when I opened Abingdon Animal Medical Center, I built it around a core belief: I treat every pet that walks through our doors like they’re my own. My journey to Abingdon started back in 2012, after graduating from Oregon State University. My first job was in Midland, Texas—a town where football, rodeo, and oil seemed to be the heartbeat of the community. It was a great place to learn the ropes in a fast-paced environment. From there, I moved to the Houston area, working under several experienced veterinarians over the next four years. Those years gave me practical knowledge, but more importantly, they taught me what kind of doctor—and what kind of leader—I wanted to be. After five years in the field, my wife and I decided it was time for something more. We had a young son at the time, and I was ready to be my own boss and start a practice rooted in community and compassion. We weren't just looking for a job opportunity—we were looking for a home. On a visit to check out a different practice in Tennessee, we passed through Abingdon and decided to stop by a clinic that happened to be for sale. From the moment we walked in, we felt something special. The process to purchase the practice took about six months, and by 2017, I officially became the owner of what is now Abingdon Animal Medical Center. From day one, my focus has been to combine small-town warmth with state-of-the-art care. Yes, we have digital x-rays that deliver results in seconds. Yes, we use ultrasound to give our clients real answers quickly. But what I believe truly sets us apart is how we care for your pets—with the same concern and attentiveness I'd expect for my own. Our services cover everything from routine checkups to soft tissue surgeries, spay and neuter procedures, dental cleanings, and more. And let me emphasize—dental health is not optional. It's a huge part of your pet’s overall wellness and comfort. Addressing issues early can add years to their life and significantly improve their quality of life. Outside of the clinic, I’m “Papa” to three amazing kids—ages nine, almost seven, and four. Coaching my oldest son’s baseball team is one of the best parts of my week. It reminds me daily that this life isn’t just about what I do at work. It’s also about being present, being involved, and showing up with integrity in everything I do. People ask me sometimes what keeps me going. The answer is simple: I love the medicine, but I love the animals more than the medicine. That’s what drives me to keep learning, improving, and showing up fully for each client and patient. If you’re part of our community in eastern Tennessee or southwest Virginia, just know this—when you bring your pet to Abingdon Animal Medical Center, they’ll be treated like family. Because that’s what they are. To learn more about Abingdon Animal Medical Center visit: https://www.MyAbingdonVet.com Abingdon Animal Medical Center 19586 Dennison Drive Abingdon, VA 24211 276-628-9655
