Critter Fixers: Country Vets is a reality television series that provides an inside look at the lives of two dedicated veterinarians, Dr. Vernard Hodges and Dr. Terrence Ferguson, as they run their bustling veterinary practice in Bonaire, Georgia. The show, which premiered in March 2020 on Nat Geo WILD, has captivated audiences with its mix of humor, emotional stories, and insight into the veterinary world. With its unique focus on the challenges of rural veterinary medicine, Critter Fixers has gained a dedicated fan base and has been a refreshing addition to reality television.
Located about 100 miles south of Atlanta, the Critter Fixer Veterinary Hospital is a lifeline for pet owners and farmers in the region. Whether it’s a dog needing surgery, a cow giving birth, or an alligator with an infection, Dr. Hodges and Dr. Ferguson tackle every case with expertise, passion, and a touch of humor. Their friendly banter and deep friendship add a layer of warmth to the show, making it not just educational but highly entertaining.
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The Men Behind the Vet Hospital
Dr. Vernard Hodges and Dr. Terrence Ferguson are more than just skilled veterinarians; they are pioneers in a field where Black professionals make up only about 2% of the workforce. Their journey to success was not easy, but their determination and love for animals helped them build one of the most respected veterinary practices in Georgia.
Dr. Vernard Hodges: The Entrepreneurial Vet
Born and raised in Fort Valley, Georgia, Dr. Hodges developed an early fascination with animals. Though he initially wanted to become a marine biologist, his path changed after an internship at a veterinary clinic. He pursued his undergraduate studies at Fort Valley State University before earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1997.
Aside from veterinary medicine, Dr. Hodges is an entrepreneur with multiple businesses, including real estate investments. He also authored the book “Bet on Yourself: From Zero to Millions”, which shares his journey from a modest upbringing to financial success. He is deeply passionate about mentorship and actively works to inspire young Black men and women to pursue careers in veterinary medicine and business.
Dr. Terrence Ferguson: The Compassionate Caregiver
Dr. Ferguson grew up in Talbotton, Georgia, where he developed a strong connection to animals at a young age. Like his business partner, he attended Fort Valley State University for his undergraduate degree and later earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Known for his calm and reassuring presence, Dr. Ferguson plays a vital role in the clinic, offering compassionate care to every patient that comes through the door. His dedication extends beyond his veterinary work—he is committed to mentoring young people, helping them see the possibilities of a career in veterinary medicine.
The Critter Fixer Veterinary Hospital: A Hub of Animal Care
Established in 1999, Critter Fixer Veterinary Hospital began as a small, 1,000-square-foot facility. Over time, thanks to the hard work and dedication of its founders, it expanded into a state-of-the-art, 7,000-square-foot clinic. Today, the hospital serves over 20,000 patients annually, making it one of the busiest veterinary clinics in rural Georgia.
The practice offers a range of services, from routine check-ups and vaccinations to emergency surgeries and specialized treatments. The doctors are known for treating not just common pets like dogs and cats but also exotic and farm animals, including pigs, goats, and even alligators. Their ability to handle such a diverse range of patients sets them apart in the veterinary world.
The Popularity of the Show and Why Fans Love It
One of the key reasons Critter Fixers: Country Vets has resonated with audiences is its heartwarming portrayal of veterinary medicine. The show offers a behind-the-scenes look at the joys and challenges of animal care while also highlighting the strong bond between the doctors and their patients.
Each episode features a mix of dramatic, funny, and emotional moments. From performing life-saving surgeries to dealing with unusual medical cases, the veterinarians are constantly on their toes. One memorable case involved a police dog that had cactus thorns embedded around its eye, requiring delicate removal. Another involved a pet chicken suffering from a rare respiratory disease. These real-life cases keep viewers engaged while educating them about animal health.
Beyond the medical aspect, fans appreciate the friendship between Dr. Hodges and Dr. Ferguson. Their lighthearted teasing, combined with their deep respect for one another, makes the show feel genuine and relatable. The duo also brings awareness to the lack of diversity in veterinary medicine and actively works to inspire future veterinarians through mentorship programs.
Mentorship and Community Impact
One of the most impactful aspects of Critter Fixers is the Vet for a Day program founded by Dr. Hodges and Dr. Ferguson. This initiative allows students, particularly those from minority backgrounds, to shadow them at the clinic and learn about veterinary medicine firsthand. The goal is to encourage more diversity in the field by exposing young people to career opportunities they may not have considered before.
Both doctors frequently speak at schools and community events, sharing their experiences and encouraging young Black students to pursue STEM careers. Their dedication to mentorship has been widely recognized, and their efforts have made a lasting impact on aspiring veterinarians across the country.
Awards and Recognition
The success of Critter Fixers: Country Vets has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, the show was nominated for an NAACP Image Award in the category of Outstanding Reality Program, Reality Competition, or Game Show. This nomination highlighted the cultural and educational value of the show, as well as its role in promoting diversity in veterinary medicine.
Dr. Hodges and Dr. Ferguson have also been featured on mainstream media outlets such as The Kelly Clarkson Showand Good Morning America, where they have discussed their work and the importance of representation in their field.
The Uncertain Future of the Show
While Critter Fixers: Country Vets has been a beloved series, there is uncertainty about its future. After Season 5, which aired in 2023, fans began wondering whether the show would continue. A fan recently asked Dr. Hodges on social media about the possibility of another season.
In response, Dr. Hodges explained that their original contract with Nat Geo WILD was for five seasons, and after that, they began working on a year-by-year basis.
Season 6 aired in 2024 under this short-term contract, but as of now, the network has not yet renewed the show for Season 7. While the doctors remain hopeful, there is a chance that the network might decide to end the series. If this happens, it would be a significant loss for fans who have come to love the dynamic duo and the valuable insights they provide into the world of veterinary medicine.
For now, fans can continue watching previous seasons on Disney+, Hulu, and Nat Geo WILD while waiting for an official announcement about the show’s fate. Whether or not Critter Fixers: Country Vets returns for another season, one thing is certain—Dr. Hodges and Dr. Ferguson have already made a lasting impact on the veterinary world and continue to inspire future generations of veterinarians.
Please try to have more shows but work with a network that more people can watch