WALKING ALONG West Main Street in Lebanon, where the sound of paws pattering on sidewalks is as common as the hum of passing cars, Dr. Matthew “Matte” Haley’s veterinary practice stands as a welcome place for animals of all kinds. From scruffy dogs to exotic reptiles, Haley’s clinic welcomes every creature in need. His easy smile and calm, reassuring presence instantly put both pets and their owners at ease, making it feel like more than a clinic — it’s a place for fur, feathers, scales, and shells alike.
From the very beginning, animals have been part of his story.
“As long as I can remember, I wanted to work with animals,” Haley said, his eyes lighting up. “I was around 5 when I started telling people I was going to be a vet, and it stuck. Even growing up, I never imagined doing anything else.”
Raised in Nashville, Haley found his calling early and he always knew he wanted to work with animals. His path took him from Nashville to Tuskegee University in Alabama, where he honed his skills in veterinary medicine. But his passion always leaned toward the less conventional patients.
“Exotics are my niche now,” he explained. “We see everything from reptiles to primates — yeah, we have a lot of monkeys around here!”
It’s not unusual for the local community to bring in a parrot with a broken wing or a potbellied pig that needs a check-up.
Haley’s care for animals doesn’t stop at the clinic door. His connection to the community is as natural as a dog’s love for its favorite stick. He talks warmly about a recent homeless outreach event where his team provided free care for the pets of people experiencing homelessness.
“We took care of only a few dogs that day, but we hope to treat more with future events, and it was one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. Those animals are family for people who are going through tough times, and if we can make their lives a little easier, I’m all for it,” Haley explained.
His compassion stretches across species, and it’s that deep love for animals, whether they meow, chirp, or snort, that has made him beloved in the area. What makes Haley’s practice truly special is the way he approaches his patients, not as “just animals” but as family members.
His staff is just as devoted, and the clinic runs like a graceful flock of birds.
“I have the best team,” Haley said with pride. “They’ve been trained to handle just about any creature that comes in, and they do it with patience and care. You can’t teach someone to love animals — that has to come naturally, and my team has it.”
As the practice grows, Haley continues to focus on not only caring for the pets in his clinic but on expanding his outreach.
“There’s always more we can do,” he said optimistically. “We’ve been thinking of visiting homeless camps directly, bringing the care to the pets where they are. Not everyone can make it to us, so we’ll go to them.”
In the end, Haley’s practice is more than just a place for animals to receive care. It is a community staple. His love for creatures big and small is evident in every wagging tail, every chirp, and every nuzzle from a grateful pet. His clients, both human and animal, know they have a vet who not only treats their wounds but also understands the bond between a pet and its person. GN
