After achieving five successful seasons on their National Geographic reality TV show, Dr. Vernard Hodges and Dr. Terrence Ferguson, renowned Middle Georgia veterinarians, are expanding their services by inaugurating a new clinic in Warner Robins.
The dynamic duo, stars of the popular National Geographic TV show “Critter Fixers,” have now established their second PetSmart Veterinary Services (PVS) hospital. The new clinic is conveniently located within the PetSmart premises at 2730 Watson Blvd., as per an official news release.
Taking charge as the primary practicing veterinarian and part owner at this new location is Dr. Clarrissa Porter, DVM. Meanwhile, Hodges and Ferguson continue to operate the Critter Fixer Veterinary Hospital in Bonaire and Byron.
The success of their reality TV show is a testament to the impactful veterinary work they perform at their hospitals, reaching communities throughout rural Middle Georgia.
Expressing his long-standing commitment, Hodges stated in the release, “It has always been my mission to inspire the next generation of future veterinarians. With PVS, I am grateful to provide additional opportunities for veterinarians of color to assume leadership and ownership roles within the profession and their community.”
The grand opening for the new location was scheduled for Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Warner Robins Mayor LaRhonda Patrick, a captivating reptile exhibit showcasing Georgia reptiles, pet samples, and various giveaways.
Pet owners looking to schedule an appointment at the new location can either call 478-338-9660 or conveniently book online.
During the filming of the first season of “Critter Fixers,” Ferguson highlighted that approximately 98% of veterinarians were white, expressing a hope that their success would serve as inspiration for young Black individuals to consider the profession. In 2013, an article by The Atlantic reported that white veterinarians constituted 96.5% of the total, making it the predominantly white profession at the time.
In a previous Telegraph article, Ferguson emphasized, “I definitely hope we can encourage young men or young women if they are African American that this is something they can accomplish if that is their dream.”
The show is broadcast on Nat Geo Wild, and the first five seasons are available on the streaming service Disney+. Hodges, sharing his personal journey from growing up in poverty in Fort Valley to achieving success and overcoming obstacles, has chronicled his story in his self-help book titled “Bet on Yourself.”