Veterinarian Overview
Dr. Patrick Gries joined Amherst Veterinary Hospital in 1994 after graduating from Virginia Tech with a Bachelors degree in Biology in 1989 and his D.V.M. degree from the Virginia Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine (at Virginia Tech) in 1994. Dr. Gries grew up always wanting to be veterinarian. His interest peaked in particular when he used to help his uncle and grandfather on their dairy farm in Wisconsin. With all types of animals around and a seemingly endless supply of interesting medical cases, he knew what he was meant to do for a career. Dr. Gries grew up in suburban Maryland, near Washington, D.C. and was very active in competitive youth soccer. Dr. Gries lives in Amherst County and loves the small town, more rural life that Amherst County provides. He has been married to his wife Christine since 1990 and they have 3 children, Rachel, Ben and Aidan. His family also includes three dogs, two cats and a rabbit. Dr. Gries enjoys all aspects of being a vet with a special focus on the medicine and surgery of small animals, including dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, rodents and an occasional exotic species. He has special interests in cancer medicine, surgery and dental/oral care. However, the thing that gives him the greatest satisfaction is being able to follow a pet and owner through all phases of its life. From talking about puppy or kitten care, all the way to the very difficult end of life decisions, being there to help and guide them is a special honor. Dr. Gries has been with Amherst Veterinary Hospital for 22 years and looks forward to continuing to serve Amherst for many years to come. Beyond his work at Amherst Veterinary Hospital, Dr. Gries' passion is the outdoors. He enjoys gardening, landscaping, hiking, fishing, camping, hunting and working on his father's farm in eastern Amherst County. In addition, he spends a lot of time either watching or helping coach his children's sporting teams. Lastly, he is a devoted football fan and rarely misses an opportunity to watch the Amherst Lancers or his Virginia Tech Hokies.
