Wyckoff to retire after 40 years at Blackwell Animal Hospital

The Blackwell Animal Hospital (BAH) & Hartford Animal Clinic (HAC) have recently been acquired by Dr. Hayley Bruey. Together, these clinics are a leading provider of comprehensive veterinary care in north-central Oklahoma & southern Kansas.

After practicing veterinary medicine for 41 years, Dr. Larry Wyckoff has decided it is time to pass the baton. “I am delighted Dr. Bruey is willing to take over the business and continue providing excellent veterinary care in this area. Rural veterinarians are increasingly rare. This community is very fortunate to have Dr. Bruey.”

Dr. Bruey is a 2017 graduate of the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine. Originally from Caldwell, Kansas, Dr. Bruey’s agricultural background has equipped her to meet the diverse needs of a mixed animal practice. Additionally, Dr. Bruey has worked in both the Blackwell and Ponca City Clinic’s the past 4 years. According to Dr. Wyckoff, “Dr. Bruey is a skilled surgeon with strong diagnostic skills. She is compassionate, communicates clearly and is a decisive problem solver. Small or large animal, Dr. Bruey is knowledgeable, competent, and experienced. I am confident she will be successful and a true asset in the community.”

The BAH was established in 1942 & Dr. Wyckoff took over operations in 1981. Prior to that, he worked a year at the Pond Creek Veterinary Clinic after graduating from OSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Wyckoff purchased HAC in 2001 and currently works there for Dr. Bruey. He plans to retire at the end of the year and move to Oologah to be closer to grandkids.

“I’m looking forward to living near family but leaving this community will be very difficult. Clients have become friends and coworkers have become family. We’ve shared a lot of laughs and some sad times, too. I certainly do not take for granted the support I’ve received the past 41 years. There are a lot of great folks here that I will dearly miss.”

When asked how ownership feels, Dr. Bruey said, “There’s a lot to coordinate but I’ve got a terrific team. Dr. Wyckoff has involved me on the business end over the years, so I feel confident and prepared. Also, I’ve learned a lot from him about how to treat animals of all species and I appreciate the way he treats all people with value and respect.”

Dr. Bruey invites the public to a farewell event on Saturday December 18 at the Blackwell Animal Hospital from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. “Please come by and wish Dr. Wyckoff a happy retirement. He has provided an invaluable public service and will be greatly missed.”