Our Veterinarians

Tom Schwartz, DVM

Owner 

As an unwavering advocate for animals and their profound impact on our lives, Dr. Tom Schwartz is a highly respected and caring veterinarian with deep roots in the St. Louis community. Born and raised in this vibrant city, he attended John Burroughs High School before embarking on an academic journey that would solidify his passion for veterinary medicine. Dr. Schwartz's pursuit of knowledge led him to the University of Michigan, where he earned his undergraduate degree, and then to Michigan State University, where he attended veterinary school. After graduating with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, he returned to his beloved hometown and has been serving the St. Louis area since 1994. His dedication to the welfare of pets and his commitment to their well-being have earned him the trust and admiration of countless families throughout the region. With a wealth of experience under his belt, including a significant tenure as the Director of the Veterinary Health Center at Kansas State University, Dr. Schwartz brings a comprehensive understanding of animal care to his practice. Each patient that walks through his doors receives individualized attention and genuine affection, reflecting his deep-rooted belief that every animal deserves the best possible care. Among his areas of expertise, Dr. Schwartz has developed a strong interest in orthopedic surgery, skillfully addressing musculoskeletal issues and providing pets with a chance at a better quality of life. Additionally, he is proficient in ultrasonography, a valuable diagnostic tool that aids in identifying and treating various medical conditions.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Dr. Schwartz finds joy in spending quality time with his family. His wife, Kelly, a long-time resident of the South Hampton neighborhood and a Bishop Dubourg alumna, shares his love for animals and the community. Their home is filled with the delightful presence of Gabbie, a charming and vocal rescue pup, Gracie, a loving golden retriever, and Zoey, the spirited and three-footed feline who manages to rule the roost. As the owner of the practice, Dr. Tom Schwartz remains steadfast in his commitment to providing top-notch care, embracing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for both pets and their families. His genuine love for animals and decades of experience make him a trusted partner in ensuring the health and happiness of the cherished pets of St. Louis and beyond. Dr. Schwartz is also the proud owner of Hampton Animal Hospital and Watson Road Veterinary Clinic.

Lawrence Zeis, DVM

Dr. Zeis graduated from the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine in 1981. One year later, Dr. Zeis founded Watson Road Veterinary Clinic. Thirty-plus years later, the hospital is still thriving. Under the leadership of Dr. Zeis, Watson Road Animal Hospital has seen multiple expansions, and is considered one of the premier animal hospitals in St. Louis. Dr. Zeis is a lifelong resident of South City, is married, and has three children. In 2011, he was inducted into the CBC (high school) Hall-Of-Fame. He has also received numerous certificates, and recognition for the work he does (Nomination for Best Veterinarian in America). In his free time, Dr. Zeis enjoys flying small aircraft, sailing, scuba diving, and skiing. 

Assistants

Bri

From a young age, Bri has held a deep love for animals. She embarked on the journey of veterinary medicine to further understand the intricacies of animal health and to contribute to their care and welfare. The opportunity to combine her love for animals with her desire to learn and make a positive impact has been truly fulfilling. Bri is approaching the milestone of six years in the veterinary field. Through years of dedication, Bri has continued to grow and refine her skills, ensuring the best possible care for the animals. As a veterinary professional, Bri finds great satisfaction in obtaining blood samples for diagnostic purposes. This crucial aspect of animal care allows for accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans, ensuring the well-being of our beloved furry companions. If Bri could offer one piece of advice for pet parents it would be to obtain pet insurance. Unexpected veterinary expenses can arise, and having pet insurance provides peace of mind and financial assistance during challenging times. It allows you to focus on your pet's well-being without the added stress of financial burdens. At home, Bri is accompanied by a delightful two-year-old Goldendoodle named Ky. Ky fills her life with joy, love, and playful energy. Aside from her dedication to the veterinary field, Bri is a proud Air Force veteran with ten years of service.

Danni

Animals have always held a special place in Danni’s heart, and her connection with them surpasses her affinity for humans. With over a decade of experience in the veterinary industry, Danni has witnessed the immense impact that quality care can have on animals' lives. Since starting her journey in high school, she has honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of animal health and wellbeing. Danni’s favorite part of her job is taking x-rays. It's like capturing a glimpse into their internal world. Being able to visualize and diagnose conditions through diagnostic imaging is both fascinating and crucial in providing accurate and effective treatments. If Danni could offer advice to a pet owner it would be to run annual blood work on your pets. Regular blood tests can help detect underlying health issues early on, enabling timely intervention and improving the overall prognosis for our beloved pets. Embracing preventive measures can lead to longer, healthier lives for our furry companions. Danni’s household is blessed with the presence of two delightful Chihuahuas named Bantam and Chalupa. They bring endless joy and entertainment to my life with their vibrant personalities and unwavering loyalty. They serve as a constant reminder of the love and happiness that animals bring into our lives.

Debbie

Introducing an animal enthusiast with a true passion for all creatures great and small, meet Debbie, a dedicated individual with 26 years of experience in the animal industry. From a young age, Debbie's heart was captured by the beauty and wonder of animals, sparking a lifelong love affair that led her to pursue a fulfilling career in the animal industry. In her role, Debbie finds immense joy in assisting with dental cleanings. Seeing the transformation in an animal's oral health and the positive impact it has on their overall well-being is deeply rewarding for her. As someone deeply connected to animals, Debbie has a valuable piece of advice to offer to pet owners: "Take care of your pet like you would yourself." Recognizing that pets are beloved members of the family, she encourages responsible and loving care to ensure they lead healthy and happy lives. At home, Debbie shares her life with a wonderful Manx cat named Jax. Jax's tailless charm and playful demeanor bring joy and laughter to her household, creating cherished memories and deepening the bond between them. During their leisure time together, Debbie and Jax enjoy the simple pleasures of life, like chilling on the porch. This peaceful moment allows them to bask in each other's company while enjoying the sights and sounds of the great outdoors. Her dedication to the welfare of animals is evident in her daily work and the loving care she provides to her own cherished pet, Jax. Debbie’s journey as an animal lover and advocate is a testament to the profound and meaningful connections that can be formed between humans and the animal kingdom.

Jenika

Bio Coming Soon

Shelley

Introducing a seasoned professional whose journey in the animal industry began unexpectedly but has led to a fulfilling and meaningful career. Meet our dedicated and experienced animal enthusiast, Shelley! With three decades of experience in the animal industry, our expert has honed her skills and become an invaluable asset in the world of animal care. While Shelley enjoys a range of tasks, providing general nursing care stands out as her favorite. This hands-on approach allows her to connect with animals on a deeper level and offer the care and compassion they deserve. If there's one piece of advice she could offer pet owners, it would be to prioritize behavior training for their animal companions. Understanding and shaping an animal's behavior not only fosters a positive relationship but also contributes to a harmonious home environment. Among the diverse array of animals, Shelley’s heart belongs to cats. The enigmatic nature and independent spirit of feline friends have captivated her throughout her career. At home, she shares her life with two delightful domestic short-haired cats named Michael and Spaz. The companionship and joy they bring to her life serve as a constant reminder of the profound bond between humans and animals. Throughout her impressive career, our animal enthusiast has consistently demonstrated her dedication to the well-being and happiness of animals. Her passion for the animal industry shines through in every aspect of her work and personal life.

Sophie

Meet Sophie, a passionate and dedicated vet assistant with a profound love for animals. Since childhood, Sophie's dream has been to become a veterinarian, driven by her unwavering belief that animals hold a special place in the world and deserve the best care and compassion. For her, animals have a unique way of connecting with us, and she firmly believes that they bring out the best in humanity. With two years of experience in the animal industry, Sophie has already made significant strides toward fulfilling her dream and making a positive impact on the lives of animals and their human companions. Her favorite aspect of her work is assisting with surgeries, where she can apply her skills and expertise to ensure the well-being of her animal patients. If there's one piece of advice she would give to pet owners, it's to prioritize heartworm prevention for their beloved furry friends. Preventative measures play a crucial role in safeguarding pets from this serious and potentially life-threatening condition. At home, Sophie shares her life with a lovable Pitbull mix named Jazzy. Jazzy's joyful spirit and affectionate nature make every day a delight for Sophie. Additionally, she fosters both dogs and cats, giving love and care to those in need until they find their forever homes. As Sophie continues to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian in her pre-vet school program, she learns more about the industry here at Watson Road Veterinary Clinic!

Receptionists

Kevin

Kevin found a passion for veterinary medicine unexpectedly as he embarked on a job search. Over the course of time, Kevin realized that he developed a genuine interest and affinity for animals. It was a serendipitous journey that led Kevin to a career in veterinary medicine. Now, Kevin has been in the industry for nearly 9 years now, with August marking this exciting milestone. Throughout these years, Kevin has learned and grown, finding immense joy in what he does every day. One of the aspects he cherishes most about his job is the opportunity to educate clients. Kevin firmly believes that informed pet owners can make the best decisions for their furry companions, and being able to guide and educate them is incredibly fulfilling. Speaking of furry companions, Kevin has two wonderful pets waiting for him at home. A charming feline named Leia, pays tribute to the iconic princess from Star Wars, and a loving Pitbull named Otis, named after the legendary Otis Redding. Spending quality time with them, snuggling, and experiencing their unconditional love is one of his favorite pastimes.

Nate

Nate’s love for animals has been a driving force throughout his life, leading him to pursue a career in the veterinary field. For the past 15 years, Nate has dedicated himself to this industry, fueled by the desire to make a positive impact on the lives of animals and their human companions. Nate takes pride in assisting clients in providing the best possible care for their beloved pets. Ensuring that pets receive the care they deserve at an affordable price is a priority for Nate. While working, his favorite thing to do is help my coworkers. Nate believes in the strength of teamwork and collaboration within the veterinary clinic. Supporting and assisting his colleagues not only creates a harmonious work environment but also contributes to the overall quality of care provided to animal patients. If Nate could tell pet parents one thing it would be that you can never be too worried when it comes to the well-being of your beloved pets. Trust your instincts and be proactive in seeking veterinary care and advice. Early intervention and regular check-ups can make a significant difference in maintaining the health and happiness of your furry friends. At home, Nate has the joy of sharing his life with two lovely cats, Prince Charming and Princess Peach. They are domestic shorthairs with beautiful gray/blue coats who love to play tag! It's a playful and interactive way to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Hannah

Hannah’s journey into the veterinary field was driven by a strong desire to become more knowledgeable and informed as a pet parent. Hannah recognized that by expanding her understanding of animal health and well-being, I could provide the best possible care for her own furry companion and help others do the same. Becoming educated in veterinary medicine has empowered Hannah to advocate for the welfare of all pets and support fellow pet parents on their own journeys. Hannah’s favorite part of her job is educating clients! Hannah finds immense joy in sharing her knowledge and helping pet owners become informed and empowered advocates for their furry family members. If Hannah could offer any advice to pet parents it would be to invest in training early and often! Training your pet, especially using force-free and positive reinforcement methods, is an investment that pays off in the long run. It strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend and sets the foundation for a harmonious and enriching relationship. At home, Hannah is blessed with the presence of Artemis, a lovable Pit Bull. Hannah cherishes moments of snuggles with her pet and believes in the importance of creating new enrichment games that stimulate their minds and bodies. In addition to her work in the veterinary field, Hannah is actively pursuing certification as a dog trainer. This additional expertise will further enhance her ability to support pet parents in training their furry companions using positive reinforcement techniques.

Marina

Bio Coming Soon

Tearene

Bio Coming Soon

Marge

Bio Coming Soon