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Meet

OUR VETERINARIANS

Meet the folks who make it all happen. We see big potential in every moment, & care deeply about what we do every day.

Drs. Preston & Mary Thornton

Drs. Preston & Mary Thornton

Practice Co-Owners, Veterinarians

Southern Hills Animal Hospital was opened on May 15,1994 by Doctors Preston and Mary Thornton. Having settled in Franklin County shortly after graduating from veterinary school, they quickly fell in love with the Roanoke Valley. Although Dr. Preston is originally from Pulaski, Virginia and loves the country life, Dr. Mary is from Hampton, Virginia and enjoys the city life. The Roanoke Valley was the perfect compromise. Living in Franklin County and working in Roanoke provides the best of both worlds to grow their business and family.

Dr. Preston received a Bachelors of Science degree in Animal Science with a minor in Biology and Chemistry from Virginia Tech prior to going to veterinary school. After graduating he worked at Farm Veterinary Services & Pell Animal Hospital in Franklin County. He enjoys providing care for both Large and Small animals, spending some time out on local farms and stables; and most days in the hospital with the smaller creatures. He enjoys surgery, especially orthopedic procedures. Outside of the office Dr. Preston is an avid nature lover and enjoys hunting and fishing.

Dr. Mary received a Bachelors of Science degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry and Nutrition and a minor in Biology from Virginia Tech. After graduating she worked in Yorktown, Virginia then moved to provide emergency veterinary services in Lynchburg Virginia. Dr. Mary enjoys cardiology, dentistry, nutritional management and behavior counseling. In her spare time, Dr. Mary enjoys gardening and Hokie Football (most seasons).