Pineville Rotary’s 23rd Annual Business of the Year
PINEVILLE, LA—You might think the pickings would be slim after 22 years of identifying select businesses to honor as Business of the Year. But the Rotary Club of Pineville, Louisiana, USA keeps finding a strong field of nominees every year. This year Montgomery Animal Hospital was named its 2013 Business of the Year. The 23rd Annual award was presented July 11 and accepted by Dr. Chris and Mrs. Laura Thomson on behalf of the hospital’s 20 employees.
“Montgomery Animal Hospital was among seven businesses nominated this year for the award. Each year the club solicits nominations from members and reviews them against a set of criteria,” said Elizabeth Battalora, club president.
To be considered for the award a firm must be a for-profit entity, have been in business for three years or more, employ two or more people, and have its main location on the north side of the Red River. “We look for a firm that exhibits Rotary’s “Four Way Test” of truth, fairness, goodwill and benefits to all in its dealings,” Battalora added.
Montgomery Animal Hospital was established in 1994. After working there for several years, Dr. Chris Thomson purchased the hospital in 2004. In May 2009, the Thomsons expanded significantly and tripled the size of their facility with a new building. Dr. Thomson’s mixed animal practice focuses primarily on dogs, cats, horses, and cattle. Interestingly, he also makes house calls when warranted, certainly an unusual service in this day. The hospital is located at 4116 Highway 28 East in Pineville.
The hospital and staff stay closely involved with the community by offering free workshops and seminars on various topics and through participation in the Central Louisiana Chamber of Commerce. Additionally they support local education through various sponsorships and hands-on activities with students of all ages.
“I loved coming home to Central Louisiana after finishing college to serve as a veterinarian and raise my family.” said Dr. Thomson. “Laura and I believe deeply that our clinic’s success is due to the incredible people who work with us and the wonderful families who consider us their ‘other family doctor,’ he added.”
The Rotary Club of Pineville was chartered in 1988 and meets Thursday mornings at 7 a.m. at Kees Park Community Center. The Club focuses on five avenues of civic opportunity: vocational, international, community, new generations and club service.
