Texas Veterinarian Named 'Best Vet' in America

DENVER, Jan. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- According to Gina DeGennaro of Arlington, Texas, Dr. Kirk Weicht of Brown Trail Animal Hospital is truly the heartbeat of his clinic, and he goes above and beyond for his clients. In recognition of Weicht's work, DeGennaro submitted an essay to the third annual Thank Your Vet for a Healthy Pet® contest, and Weicht was chosen as the 2009 West regional and National winner. The nationwide essay contest, conducted by Morris Animal Foundation, allows clients to honor outstanding veterinarians for their dedication to helping animals and strengthening the human–animal bond. A complete list of nominees and the winners' profiles are posted at www.ThankYourVet.org.

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Of the award, Weicht said, "I am rewarded every day just being able to serve as a veterinarian. When I am able to make a difference or impact a client it is especially enjoyable. For someone to take the time to express this in writing is thoughtful, and I feel extremely honored."

Hundreds of pet owners throughout the country submitted nominations. The contest is co-sponsored by Hill's Pet Nutrition and Dog Fancy, Cat Fancy and Veterinary Practice News magazines, published by BowTie, Inc.

Weicht realized at an early age that his calling in life was to be a veterinarian. He followed his lifelong calling when he graduated with a degree in veterinary medicine from Texas A&M University. His family currently has four cats and a dog, all of which were rescued animals. According to Weicht, the two most special animals in his life were a Great Dane named Rocky, which he had while in veterinary school, and his current Great Dane, Lyle.

"The most rewarding aspect of being a veterinarian has also been the most challenging," said Weicht. "This would be in the area of advancing technology. In my opinion, the level of patient care is directly attributable to a veterinarian's dedication to keeping abreast of advances in veterinary medicine."

Weicht was one of five regional winners. The others include:

• Kristin Quisenberry, DVM, of Hidden Valley Animal Clinic in McMurray, Pa., for the Northeast
• Patrick Hourigan, DVM, of Richmond Veterinary Clinic in Richmond, Ill., for the Midwest
• J. Robert Yack, DVM, of Jackson Creek Veterinary Clinic in Jackson, Calif., for the West
• Amara Estrada, DVM, of the University of Florida Veterinary Medical Center in Gainesville, Fla., for the Southeast

"Morris Animal Foundation is excited to honor these outstanding veterinarians because they help us provide a healthier tomorrow for animals," said Patricia N. Olson, DVM, PhD, president/CEO of Morris Animal Foundation.

All of the winners will be honored in front of their peers at the North American Veterinary Conference in Orlando, Fla., on Saturday, January 16, 2010.

About Morris Animal Foundation

SOURCE Morris Animal Foundation