Dr. Abby Hammond provides McAfee Animal Hospital with experience and dedication

Since 1943, McAfee Animal Hospital has been a committed facility that provides compassionate, ethical, and quality care to all of its pet patients. With a desire to keep doing so for many years to come, it requires a team of doctors who are dedicated to improving the quality of life for pets in not only Valparaiso but all throughout the Region.

Recently, McAfee Animal Hospital welcomed Dr. Abby Hammond, a doctor of veterinary medicine who was born and raised in Joliet, Illinois. In the summer of 2017, Hammond moved to Northwest Indiana, while her and her sister were both in college. Ever since she started her college education programs, Hammond has been committed to building her resume, earning multiple degrees and obtaining out-of-state work experience.

“I received my Bachelor of Science degree in biology and a minor in chemistry from Grace College,” Hammond said. “I went on to obtain my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine degree from Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) College of Veterinary Medicine. I graduated from LMU in 2023 and worked as an emergency veterinarian for two years in Kentucky before I joined the team at McAfee Animal Hospital.”

Growing up, Hammond has always had a desire for helping animals. However, it was when she worked in her hometown that she knew this career path was a match made in heaven.

“I quickly became interested in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine when I started working as a veterinary assistant at a general practice veterinary hospital when I was in Joliet,” Hammond said. “I was a senior in high school at the time when I truly decided to pursue my calling of becoming a veterinarian.”

Hammond first discovered the opportunity at McAfee Animal Hospital in February 2024, shortly after a Porter County Fair Board Member unfortunately passed away. A close family friend of Hammond, along with Dr. Steve Violanti, found themselves at the wake, despite never meeting each other prior to the event.

“While at the wake, Dr. Steve was speaking with his wife about how they were in need of another veterinarian. My friend Darrell overheard their conversation and gave both my name and contact information to Dr. Steve. Just a few weeks later, Dr. Brooke McAfee reached out to see if I had any interest in joining their team.”

At the time, Hammond was still working as an emergency veterinarian in Kentucky. She considers the scenario to be an unpredictable turn of events, albeit one that has presented her with an incredible opportunity.

“I am both excited and humbled to be a part of the veterinary team at McAfee

Animal Hospital,” Hammond said. “I hope to continue carrying on their legacy and making a difference in this community for many years to come.”

While Hammond has been a caretaker for a plethora of animals while working, she does currently own one dog, who is an Australian Shepherd and Basset Hound mix. She adopted him during vet school from a local rescue in Tennessee.

During her free time, Hammond cherishes traveling, hiking, reading, cooking, and baking. She also loves to visit different local coffee shops.

As Hammond is ready to get started with McAfee Animal Hospital, the team is just as eager to bring her on board. They’re looking forward to the experience she will bring to help care for countless pets in the Region.

To learn more about McAfee Animal Hospital, you can visit mcafeeah.com.