Here When You Need Us
Your pet’s health and comfort are at the core of what we do.
As pet lovers ourselves, we understand the worry and stress that comes with emergencies, and we’re here to offer you peace of mind throughout the process.
We have a highly trained staff providing intensive care, emergency surgical procedures and hospitalization.
Our Doctors
J.S. Welch
DVM
Dr. Welch grew up in Haughton, LA, and graduated from Haughton High School in 1992. He then attended Louisiana Tech University and graduated with an Animal Science degree in 1996.
Dr. Welch spent the next four years attending LSU School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 2000. His first three years out of vet school were split between Metairie, LA and Hallsville, TX. He joined the Animal Emergency Clinic staff in 2003.
He currently lives in Shreveport and has been married to his high school sweetheart for twenty years. They have three boys (all growing up too fast), Garrett 19, Gage 16, and Graham 10. He also has a Yowser named Leia.
When Dr. Welch is not caring for sick and injured cats and dogs, he enjoys spending time with family, running, biking, traveling, and watching LSU sports. Geaux Tigers!
Hannah Cavender
DVM
Dr. Hannah Cavender graduated from the veterinary school at LSU in 2010, after attending Ruston High School and Louisiana Tech University. She was a mixed animal veterinarian before transitioning to emergency medicine. She joined the Animal Emergency Clinic staff in 2014.
Dr. Cavender currently lives in Ruston with her 5 animals. She has 2 cats, 2 dogs, and a rabbit. When not working, Dr. Cavender enjoys reading and exploring the great outdoors.