Veterinary Heroes: Patricia Kennedy Arrington, DVM, CVFP

Patricia Kennedy Arrington, DVM, CVFP, has devoted more than 4 decades to advancing veterinary medicine and shaping the profession. A 1971 graduate of Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Kennedy Arrington cofounded Jefferson Animal Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1978 alongside her husband, Rick Arrington. Although she did not initially aspire to own a practice, her husband’s business insight identified a need for round-the-clock care in the bustling city. By 1980, Jefferson Animal Hospital had achieved accreditation from the American Animal Hospital Association and became one of the first veterinary practices to offer 24-hour emergency and wellness care—a groundbreaking model at the time.

A pioneer for women in veterinary medicine, Kennedy Arrington entered the field during an era when women were underrepresented. “Women were not appreciated much back then,” she explained. “I had something to prove, and I wanted to make the profession better.” She has since become a mentor to aspiring veterinarians, encouraging them to get involved in their local, state, and national veterinary organizations.

Kennedy Arrington has earned numerous honors throughout her career, including being named Kentucky Veterinarian of the Year in 2011, receiving the Businesswoman of the Year award from the National Association of Women Business Owners in 2006, and being recognized as a distinguished alumna of Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2018. Reflecting on her recognition as a Veterinary Hero, she remarked, “It’s always a ‘wow’ moment to be acknowledged because you never think you deserve it. There are so many incredible people in this profession.”

An advocate for client education, Kennedy Arrington emphasizes its critical role in patient care. “If you explain to a client what’s going on with their pet, they’ll give medications properly and follow through on care,” she noted. She also stresses the importance of continual learning and collaboration, frequently visiting other veterinary practices to exchange ideas. “Every time you visit a practice, you pick up ideas that make you a better practitioner,” she said. “It’s also how you build a network of colleagues around the country and the world.”

Outside of her work, Kennedy Arrington is an accomplished traditional rug hooker, winning blue ribbons at the Kentucky State Fair, and enjoys gardening and traveling with her husband. The pair have explored destinations such as Machu Picchu, China, and Kenya, often as part of veterinary group trips.

Through her innovative practice, dedication to mentorship, and passion for advancing veterinary medicine, Kennedy Arrington has become a role model for veterinarians worldwide. “Veterinary medicine is about being part of the community,” she said. “It’s the relationships with pet owners and the bond they share with their animals that make this work so rewarding.” At 53 years into her career, Kennedy Arrington continues to inspire the next generation of veterinary leaders.

In honor of Kennedy Arrington and 11 other Veterinary Heroes inductees, an award ceremony will be held during the 2024 Fetch dvm360 conference in Long Beach, California, where the winners will be recognized for their unwavering commitment and extraordinary efforts within the veterinary profession. The ceremony will take place at the Long Beach Convention Center on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at 11:30 AM PST. All Fetch Long Beach registrants are invited to attend the award ceremony for no additional fee.

The 2024 Veterinary Heroes program is supported by corporate sponsor Schwarzman Animal Medical Center