Ponchatoula Animal Hospital

Our Mission

At Ponchatoula Animal Hospital, our mission is simple: to provide compassionate, high-quality veterinary care to our beloved furry companions. We are dedicated to building lasting relationships with both pets and their owners, ensuring their well-being and happiness throughout every stage of life. We strive to offer a warm and welcoming environment where pets feel safe and comfortable, and where owners feel supported and informed.

Our History: A Legacy of Care

Ponchatoula Animal Hospital has been a cornerstone of the Ponchatoula community since 1980. Founded by Dr. Larry Ernst, a graduate of the first class of veterinarians from the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, the practice began in the building blocks of Dr. Ernst's childhood. His vision was to provide expert veterinary care to his hometown, drawing upon his deep connection to the area and his passion for animal health. Over the years, Dr. Ernst meticulously built the practice, expanding its services and facilities to meet the growing needs of the community.

In 2003, Dr. Pete Hendry, a renowned veterinarian with decades of experience, joined the practice, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise. The following year, Dr. Bonnie Duhon brought her compassionate approach and dedication to animal care, eventually becoming co-owner of the hospital. Their collective commitment to excellence has continued to shape the legacy of Ponchatoula Animal Hospital, making it a trusted destination for pet owners seeking exceptional care.

We are proud to be a privately owned veterinary practice, allowing us to maintain the personal touch and individualized attention that has long been a hallmark of our service. We view our patients as cherished members of the family and approach every interaction with empathy and respect.

Our Team: Dedicated to Your Pet's Well-being

At Ponchatoula Animal Hospital, our team consists of highly skilled and compassionate veterinarians, technicians, receptionists, and kennel staff. Each member of our team is dedicated to providing exceptional care to your furry companions.

Our veterinarians are experts in their field, possessing a deep understanding of animal health and a passion for providing the best possible care. They are committed to staying at the forefront of veterinary medicine, attending continuing education courses and embracing the latest advancements in treatments and technology.

Our skilled technicians play a vital role in providing comprehensive care to your pets. They assist the veterinarians during examinations and procedures, administer medications, and provide personalized attention to each animal's needs.

Our friendly receptionists are always ready to greet you with a warm smile and ensure your visit is as smooth as possible. They handle appointments, answer your questions, and provide support throughout your pet's healthcare journey.

Our dedicated kennel staff provides loving care to boarding pets, ensuring their comfort and safety while they are away from home.

Our Services: Comprehensive Care for All Your Pets

We take pride in offering a comprehensive range of veterinary services to meet the diverse needs of our patients.

Our preventive care services focus on keeping your pet healthy and happy. We offer wellness exams, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and nutritional counseling to help your pet live a long and healthy life.

Our surgical services are performed with the utmost care and precision, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and techniques. Our surgeons have extensive experience in a variety of surgical procedures, from routine spays and neuters to complex orthopedic surgeries.

We provide a full range of dental care services, including cleaning, extractions, and dental radiography. Good dental hygiene is essential for your pet's overall health, and our team is dedicated to providing gentle and effective dental care.

Our digital radiography services allow us to provide rapid and detailed images of your pet's internal structures, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

We offer both inpatient and outpatient boarding services in a clean, comfortable, and supervised environment. Your pet's well-being is our top priority, and our compassionate kennel staff ensures that they receive plenty of attention and care while they are with us.

Our in-clinic diagnostics services allow us to provide comprehensive care without the need for outside referrals. Our state-of-the-art equipment enables us to perform a variety of diagnostic tests, including bloodwork, urinalysis, and fecal exams. We also offer specialized care for exotic pets, providing expert veterinary care for a wide range of animal species.

We understand that each pet is unique, and we strive to provide individualized care tailored to their specific needs.