RAISED IN the tranquility of nature, Dr. Helton’s love for animals found its roots in Upstate New York. Her journey eventually led her to Tennessee for veterinary school and ultimately to the heart of Franklin County’s Winchester community.
In 1995, Dr. Helton embarked on a new chapter. Her move to Winchester marked more than a change in geography; it became a connection to the community, a love affair with its meandering hills, and a deep appreciation for the small-town charm that permeated the area. With its warm embrace, Winchester left an unforgettable mark on Dr. Helton’s heart, influencing her decision to lay down roots and dedicate her veterinary expertise to the local community.
“Winchester, in Franklin County, is a beautiful area. It’s very inviting, very comfortable. I’m not a city girl, and I felt very comfortable here. Of course, I did lay down roots when I moved here.”
After graduating from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine and falling in love with Tennessee, Helton moved to the area to become an associate doctor working for Dr. Harry Prince. After several years of mentorship, she moved on to start Mobile Veterinary Services, a house-call practice.
Dr. Helton’s vision of establishing a brick-and-mortar hospital became a reality at Midtown Veterinary Hospital alongside her life and business partner, Wade Anderton. The transition from a house-call practice to the establishment of a full-service vet clinic was a professional evolution. It was born from her passion for providing top-notch veterinary care. Dr. Helton’s partner was crucial in shaping the clinic’s design and bringing her long-held vision to life.
During the clinic’s 10th anniversary celebrations, Dr. Helton reflected on its challenging evolution. The journey echoed her steadfast dedication to her patients and the community.
“Construction takes a little longer than you think, but we got it up and going in a year and a half, and then the business just continues to grow every year. We’ve had more people moving through the area. We’re trying to keep up with that demand, and hopefully, we can get another doctor in here to meet that demand.”
The global landscape of pet ownership faced unprecedented challenges during the pandemic. Dr. Helton discussed the surge in pet ownership and the subsequent shortage of veterinary care professionals.
Midtown Veterinary Clinic adapted its strategies to meet the increased demand, emphasizing the importance of innovation and resilience in the face of global veterinary issues.
“Each veterinarian has to take care of so many more animals than they did before the pandemic. So, there is a shortage of veterinary care and an increased demand for veterinary care. I’ve been practicing for 28 years, and the level of care that we can provide has increased. We are all trying to do the best we can.”
For Dr. Helton, the rewards of being a veterinarian extended beyond the professional realm. Personal fulfillment blossomed through heartwarming moments and successful treatments. The bond between humans and animals emerged as a central theme, with Dr. Helton emphasizing the joy derived from maintaining and nurturing the unique connections between pets and their owners.
Franklin County’s diverse pet ownership mirrored the eclectic nature of the community. Dr. Helton marveled at the variety of pet owners, each dedicated to their companions in different ways. This community truly loves their pets.
Dr. Helton highlighted the importance of community involvement. Midtown Veterinary Clinic participates in Animal Harbor programs, supporting spay and neuter initiatives, pet fairs, and collaborating with Franklin County’s animal control and shelter.
Additionally, Dr. Helton underscored the significance of routine veterinary check-ups, dispelling misconceptions and encouraging pet owners to prioritize preventive measures. She emphasized early detection’s role in maintaining pets’ health and well-being.
“There are so many diseases we can prevent with vaccinations and early detection. A yearly visit for an exam, the required rabies shot, and the encouragement of other vaccines and parasite preventatives help keep a pet healthy for a long time. It’s definitely worth it to have your pet see their veterinarian yearly,” she warns.
While Dr. Helton encourages pet owners to prioritize veterinary care for the well-being of their beloved companions, she acknowledged that the community’s love for their pets is palpable.
“In general, we have a community that really loves their animals. And that’s the important thing.” GN
