What makes Dr. O’hara with Abingdon Animal Medical Center a good neighbor?

The Good Neighbor Podcast recently featured the dedicated team from Abingdon Animal Medical Center, providing listeners with an intimate look at the world of veterinary medicine. Dr. O'Hara, his wife Jenny O'Hara, and their experienced groomer Dakota Amos shared insights about their practice, their professional journeys, and their deep commitment to animal care in our community. Their conversation revealed not just the medical expertise behind their work, but also the genuine compassion that drives their practice.

Abingdon Animal Medical Center offers comprehensive care for cats and dogs, from routine check-ups and vaccinations to more complex medical procedures. The facility provides sick visits, hospitalization, surgeries, dental work, and a full range of diagnostic and imaging services. What sets them apart is their year-round boarding facility with temperature-controlled indoor and outdoor runs, complemented by a full-service grooming salon. Dakota, with over 13 years of experience, offers everything from basic baths to specialized grooming services, nail trimming, and tooth brushing – essentially anything that pampers pets. As a small clinic, they provide more services than many clients might expect, making them a one-stop destination for pet care in the Abingdon area.

The conversation took a personal turn as the team shared their backgrounds and journey to veterinary medicine. Dr. O'Hara, practicing for nearly 13 years with 8 years at Abingdon Animal Medical Center, described how his career stemmed from combining his dual loves of medicine and animals. Jenny and Dr. O'Hara, married for 20 years, took the leap together to purchase the center after his experience in several veterinary positions. Originally from Southern California, they brought their expertise to Virginia, creating a practice that reflects their values and commitment to animal care. Dakota's entrance into pet grooming came from a simple Google search for "careers with animals," leading to apprenticeship with a skilled mentor and blossoming into a passionate career that earned her the proud title of "the dog lady" in the community.

Perhaps the most revealing moment came when Dr. O'Hara addressed misconceptions about veterinary practice. While many envision the profession as filled with "new puppies" and joyful moments, he explained the challenging reality of dealing with sick animals, debilitating diseases, and sometimes having to help beloved pets through their final moments. Jenny added a poignant observation about how deeply her husband connects with his animal patients – experiencing the highs and lows alongside pet owners. This emotional investment demonstrates the true nature of compassionate veterinary care, where practitioners carry the wellness of animals with them beyond office hours.

When asked about their ideal customers, the team's answer was beautifully simple: "Anybody who loves their cat and dog." This inclusive approach extends to how they view their practice's relationship with clients. As Jenny articulated, "We love these animals like they are our own... you become family to us." This family-oriented philosophy permeates everything they do at the center, from how staff members treat each other to how they embrace clients and patients. In a small town like Abingdon, their commitment to "wrap arms around the community" translates into veterinary care that goes beyond medical treatment to create meaningful, lasting relationships with pet owners and their beloved animals.

To learn more about Abingdon Animal Medical Center go to:

https://www.myabingdonvet.com/

Abingdon Animal Medical Center

(832) 392-7401