For many students, college means leaving pets behind. All dormitories on Elon University’s campus ban residents from having animals, aside from small fish.
But sometimes, students bring their pets to school with them when they move off campus. And wherever there are animals, there is a need for veterinary care.
Unfortunately, statistics show this care isn’t being sought out. A study conducted in 2011 by The National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues showed a large decrease in the amount of yearly vet visits. In a small town like Elon, residents are not close to the large veterinary practices located in larger cities. However, a small business hopes to solve that problem.
The Elon Animal Hospital is located less than five minutes away from campus. For the last 36 years its mission has been to provide Burlington residents and Elon students, faculty and staff with quality veterinary service. Though it is a small facility, the Elon Animal Hospital services animals from the average household cat to large horses. It offers standard checkups, surgeries, grooming services and more. The hospital also offers mobile services, so pets that can’t be brought in by their owners can still receive care.
The Elon Animal Hospital prides itself on its wellness program. In order to prevent diseases and cut down on costs, hospital staff examines the lifestyle of each pet and develops an individual plan that supplements regular examinations with nutrition regiments.
The hospital has been a big hit with Elon students. Senior Drew Steele has visited multiple times and says the hospital’s low prices and intimate atmosphere are perfect for his chocolate Labrador Retriever, Bruce.
“Their prices are cheaper compared to what I have to pay back home for my dog,” Steele said. “The staff is also very inviting. They know Bruce and they’re really friendly with him.”
The core of the Elon Animal Hospital is its founder and chief practitioner, Dr. Jeff. D Wilkins, a sixth generation farmer and North Carolina native. Wilkins says his passion for animal care goes back to when he was 8 years old. While growing up on a farm, he was inspired by the veterinarians who took care of his father’s animals. As a teenager, he showed horses and cows and won multiple awards from the National Future Farmers of America (FFA) Association for his participation in state horse demonstrations.
After graduating from N.C. State University with a Bachelor’s degree of Science, he earned his Master’s degree from the University of Georgia and received his doctorate from Auburn University. During his decades working as a veterinarian, Wilkins has cared for animals working for companies such as Budweiser and owned by famous celebrities like country icon Tanya Tucker.
According to Wilkins, his goal is not only to care for the animals, but also to educate their owners.
“I feel like I’m a teacher,” Wilkins said. “I’ve always been a teacher.”
By sharing his knowledge with customers, he says he hopes he will be able to empower them to take care of their animals more efficiently. Wilkins says he aims to share his love for animals with each of his customers.
“I may have worked for celebrities, but a little 4-year-old girl with her bird is my celebrity, too,” he said.
Dr. Wilkins said he strives to continue offering great service at The Elon Animal Hospital. Supported by an educated staff, low prices and an innovative wellness program at the hospital, Wilkins said he hopes to be available to the residents of Burlington and Elon for years to come.