A new veterinary care facility opened its doors today that will bring more than two decades of experience, and will provide care to some exotic pets.
Watts Veterinary Services employs five people, Dr. David Watts, his wife Missy Watts who is the office manager, two veterinary techs, Donna Gilmore and Kallie Eades and their receptionist Cheri Griffin.
Dr. Watts said his interest in caring for animals began at an early age. As a child he had all kinds of pets, including dogs, snakes and lizards. During his early years in high school he became excited about the idea of providing them professional medical care. He said his grandfathers liked to keep Walker Hounds, so seeing to an animal’s well-being is in his blood.
After receiving his doctorate in veterinary medicine from Louisiana State University in 1991, Watts began his career by making house calls for about two years.
After that, he had clinics in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana and McComb and worked at a clinic in Slidell. He and his wife moved to Pearl River County in 2006, and liked it so much they plan to retire here. Watts said that decision led the couple to decide to open a new clinic in Picayune, which became a reality this week.
The clinic provides care for a number of small pets, not just dogs and cats. Watts said they also provide care for snakes, lizards, iguanas, birds, guinea pigs, ferrets and rats, among others.
A variety of medical care services are offered, including surgery, medicine, some orthopedics, emergency services and boarding.
Pet owners waiting to be seen can find some entertainment in the kitten adoption room, the brainchild of Missy Watts. He said the business will be working with local adoption groups to feature kittens looking for a forever home.
Watts Veterinary Services is located at 201 Kirkwood Street in Picayune, and will be open Monday through Saturday. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday the clinic is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Wednesday the clinic is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturday the hours are from 8 a.m. to noon. They can be reached by phone at 769-242-0201.