Our Veterinarians
Meet the folks who make it all happen. We see big potential in every moment, and care deeply about what we do every day.
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Dr. Gerald C. Haggard
Owner, Veterinarian
Dr. Gerald C. Haggard founded Exeter Veterinary Hospital on April 25, 1982, with a commitment to providing professional, personal, and efficient veterinary care to the community. Throughout his career, Dr. Haggard has treated a diverse range of patients, from bees to ostriches, and everything between.
In 2007, Exeter Veterinary Hospital moved to a state-of-the-art facility at 302 South ‘F’ Street in Exeter, California. Here, Dr. Haggard and his dedicated team offer comprehensive services, including examinations, laboratory tests, radiographs, ultrasounds, surgeries, and hospitalizations for both companion animals and equine patients.
Raised in rural Tulare County, Dr. Haggard developed a passion for animals and science from a young age. He earned an Associate of Arts degree from the College of Sequoias, followed by a Bachelor of Science and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of California, Davis, graduating in 1978.
Dr. Haggard is married to the lovely Kim Haggard. The couple was blessed with two sons, Nicholas and Jordan. They share their home with three spunky dogs: Zoey, Ellie, and Frannie, as well as four beautiful horses. In their spare time Dr. Haggard and Kim enjoy escaping to their vacation home on the coast to relax and enjoy each other’s company. If you’re driving around town, keep an eye out—you just might spot the two cycling. Be sure to give them a friendly wave!
Dr. Jennifer Wendt
Veterinarian
Some careers come full circle. For Dr. Jennifer, that circle brought her back to a place and community that helped shape who she is today.
Growing up in Tulare County, Dr. Jennifer developed a strong appreciation for the people, animals and agricultural roots that make the area unique. That connection eventually led her to Exeter Veterinary Hospital, where she worked as a Veterinary Assistant during her undergraduate studies. The experience gave her an early look at the relationships that form between veterinarians, clients and their animals, while also reinforcing her desire to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.
After earning her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from California State University, Chico, along with minors in Food Studies and Biology, Dr. Jennifer continued her education at Texas A&M University. There, she earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and gained extensive hands-on experience working with both small and large animals. Her training provided a broad foundation that prepared her for the variety and challenges of general practice.
Today, returning to Exeter Veterinary Hospital as a Veterinarian carries special meaning. Dr. Jennifer is grateful for the opportunity to care for pets and livestock in the same community where she grew up and where she first gained experience in the profession. She enjoys the day-to-day variety that comes with general practice and values the opportunity to work with a wide range of patients.
One of Dr. Jennifer’s favorite aspects of veterinary medicine is building lasting relationships with pet owners and becoming part of their animals’ ongoing care. She has a particular interest in preventative medicine and enjoys helping families make informed decisions that support their animals’ long-term health and quality of life. Finding practical solutions that work for both pets and their owners is one of the most rewarding parts of her job. She also has a well-known soft spot for pigs, which always brings an extra smile to her day.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Jennifer enjoys spending time with her husband, Nathan, and their two dogs, Waco and Winston. She loves being outdoors, whether hiking, skiing or fishing, and enjoys gardening and restoring old furniture in her free time. Most mornings begin with a good cup of coffee before she heads out to see what the day has in store.
22,005
Pet Visits
19,115
Treats Given
19,166
Mouths Cleaned
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