History

Recognizing a need for professional avian and exotic animal care, Dr. Mimi Shepherd started For Pet's Sake in 1987 as a house-call service. From day one, she saw only avian and exotic animals. In 1990, Dr. Shepherd opened the doors to the avian and exotic animal hospital; which has seen a variety of domestic animals and wildlife come through the door, including a mountain lion, fox, peacock, and raccoons. The states Dr. Shepherd's clients come from are also varied - with clients coming from Tennessee, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida.

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With a busy schedule and new practice under her wing, Dr. Shepherd received her Diplomate ABVP (Avian) status in 1995. This board certification meant that Dr. Shepherd had demonstrated by the certification process that she is capable of providing a level of clinical practice that is clearly superior to the norm of the profession.

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In 1996 Dr. Shepherd hired vet student Jason Hutcheson as her assistant while he attended UGA. Jason was a fresh face and avid herp lover. Jason brought with him a love of everything reptiles.

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In 2001 Dr. Shepherd hired Dr. Jason Hutcheson full-time.

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In 2006 Dr. Shepherd sold the practice to Dr. Jason Hutcheson.

The practice has added three associate veterinarians over the years: Dr. Holly Burchfield (2015), Dr. Kelsey Paras (2019), and Dr. Julia Hill (2020). The practice is now seeing more exotic pets than ever before.

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One thing that has not changed is the feel. For Pet's Sake is still the best small-town feel for experienced, professional care for your avian and exotic pets.