New exotic veterinarian is filling a need in southeast Kentucky

LONDON, Ky. ( FOX 56 ) — From furry to feathered to even scaled friends, a checkup with Dr. Houston Wishmeier is wildly different than the average vet visit.

He’s the newest exotic veterinarian in southeast Kentucky, filling a need not only in the community but for a local nonprofit as well.

Wilderness Trail Wildlife Center in London relies solely on donations, and Wishmeier has been a huge asset to the nonprofit at a time when it matters most.

“I don’t get paid for what I do,” said Tonya Poindexter, founder of Wilderness Trail Wildlife Center. “So, the only way that I can continue to operate is for people to donate.”

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As costs climb and donations dwindle, Wishmeier working for free is a wish come true for Poindexter. The lifelong animal lover started the nonprofit in 2016. Each year, she rescues, rehabilitates, and releases hundreds of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians that call Kentucky home.

Previously, Poindexter drove to West Virginia, where a local veterinarian cared for her critters.

“I have asked every vet around the area, and they’re like, ‘nope, nope, nope, nope,'” said Poindexter.

Now, she’s in constant communication with Wishmeier, who literally visits her in her backyard.

“I’m probably texting or talking to her at least two or three times a week,” Wishmeier said.

Wishmeier still spends most of his week working full-time at Noah’s Ark Animal Hospital in London and Manchester. Neighbors are also thrilled about the new vet, commenting on a recent post by Poindexter that introduced him to the community.

One exotic pet owner wrote, “This is awesome because we have a bearded dragon at home.”

Another person posted, “Finally! We have to drive all the way to Richmond and hope the exotic vet is in. This is great news!”

“Being able to help out and consistently end up with a smile on my face, it’s a good feeling at the end of the day,” Wishmeier said in response to the positive feedback.

Poindexter and her team are also working to change the way the world sees local wildlife through educational events. Instead of fearing Kentucky’s native species, they hope the community can learn to respect them.

Any schools, libraries, or community centers interested in a visit can contact the nonprofit through its website . Wilderness Trail Wildlife Center does not charge a rate for a presentation.

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