Patrick McHale is a Greenbrier County native and current veterinarian at Seneca Trail Animal Hospital. His journey to this profession began at Greenbrier Community College, then took him to Virginia Tech and finally to Tuskegee University. After graduating from Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine, McHale began his career at Bedford Animal Hospital. Approximately 4 years later, he opened the doors to Seneca Trail Animal Hospital.
In addition to his work at the animal hospital, McHale severs on two local boards. Specifically, the New River Community and Technical College Board and the Advisory Board for the Greenbrier County Animal Shelter.
We recently spoke with McHale about his life. The following is that conversation.
[WVDN] Why did you choose to make GBC your home?
[McHale] When I left to go to vet school my goal was always to work my way back home. I worked at a mixed animal practice in Bedford, Virginia for 4 years then headed home. I just love the mountains and the people here. I don’t think there are any people that have a better sense of humor than here at home.
[WVDN] Are there any unique community events in GBC that you particularly enjoy being a part of?
[McHale] We have a strong 4-H & FFA presence here. The leaders of these groups probably don’t know how how much of a positive impact they had on all of us. The West Virginia State Fair is also huge for me. My brother and I showed cattle, and it was so much fun. We learned so much. We are very pleased to have the state fair here.
[WVDN] What made you decide to be a veterinarian and what do you enjoy the most about it?
[McHale] I grew up on a large farm, so I had been around livestock all of my life. I became really interested in the health aspect of taking care of animals. I volunteered at Dr. Tomblinson and Dr. Mann’s practice while in college. While there I learned so much about medicine and loved the diagnostic and treatment aspects of great animal care. I love how medicine is constantly marching forward and how much good we can do because of it.
[WVDN] How has your work at GCHS influenced your approach to your vet practice?
[McHale] I have been involved with the shelter since I came back home. I almost didn’t get in the photograph for the ground-breaking ceremony of the shelter because I was delivering a calf. The shelter does an incredible job at placing dogs and cats. They haven’t been forced to euthanize due to a lack of space for years. It has made me more aware of how important and impactful the human-animal bond is. It is pure joy on both sides when an adoption happens.
[WVDN] Can you share a particularly memorable case or animal you’ve encountered and how it impacted you and the community?
[McHale] Years ago when I first started my practice, an elderly lady brought her elderly dog in who was pretty sick. She looked me dead in the eyes and told me “Take care of my dog”. Not in a mean way, but she just needed me to understand that this dog literally meant everything to her. I’ve always understood this, but since that day I have REALLY understood what it means to save a companion animal for a loving pet owner. So we did just that and made her best friend better. Understanding how owners feel about their pets is a critical part of practicing good medicine in the community.
Greenbrier County Hero is a weekly column highlighting interesting people living in Greenbrier County. The column was originally named “Meet a Greenbrier Countian” which ran in the WV Daily News for multiple decades. If you know of a person or organization that embodies the spirit of humanitarian service, volunteerism and/or has exceptional talent, please let us know! Send your nominations to hero@wvdn.com
