Latimer Returns Home to Practice Veterinary Medicine

By Marlana Smith

A recent veterinary graduate has returned to Northeast Missouri to serve the community that helped shape his passion for animal health and agriculture.

After growing up on his family’s cow-calf operation near Hunnewell, Mo., Kirby Latimer said returning to the area as a veterinarian is a full-circle moment.

“I look forward to caring for the animals and families of the area for years to come,” Latimer said.

A 2019 graduate of North Shelby High School, he earned a Bachelor of Science in animal sciences from the University of Missouri before continuing his education at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine, where he recently earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree.

Following graduation, Latimer joined Northeast Veterinary Service in Shelbina, Mo., as an associate veterinarian.

Latimer’s interest in veterinary medicine began at an early age through his family’s cow-calf operation and his involvement in 4-H and FFA. Those experiences helped foster a strong passion for the livestock industry.

As a cattle producer himself, Latimer has a deep appreciation for the dedication farmers put into caring for their animals. Those experiences, along with additional veterinary opportunities, showed him the impact veterinary medicine can have on both animals and the people who care for them.

Latimer’s goal is to provide quality animal care while also supporting producers in maintaining sustainable and profitable operations.

“I also look forward to caring for family pets and strengthening the human-animal bond within the community,” expressed Latimer.

He currently provides veterinary care for both large and small animals. His large-animal work includes cattle, sheep and goats, with a focus on herd health, preventive medicine and individual animal care. Latimer also treats small-animal patients, including dogs and cats, providing wellness care, diagnostics and treatment for a variety of medical conditions.

For young people interested in becoming veterinarians, Latimer encourages them to get as much hands-on experience as possible early on.

“Spend time around animals in clinics, on farms or through job shadowing to understand what the day-to-day work of the profession looks like.

“The profession is incredibly rewarding, but it also requires hard work, late nights and a commitment to never stop learning,” he said.

Most importantly, Latimer said veterinary medicine requires a passion for both animals and the people who care for them.

“Veterinary medicine is not just about treating patients, but also about building trust and relationships within the community,” Latimer said.