David B Balliet, D.V.M.
Personal quote: "If your animals are truly considered part of your family, then we are like your other family physician."
Most people don't know what they want to do with their lives. However, Dr. Balliett always knew two things: he always wanted to be a vet, and he always wanted to go to Texas A&M University. He never had any doubt in his mind about his future. This strength and show of fortitude and drive is what makes him the valued professional that he is today.
Dr. Balliett married Clair in 1981. While honeymooning in Colorado, they got the news that he had been accepted into vet school. He received his Bachelor in Biomedical Science in 1980 and then his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 1985 from Texas A&M University, achieving those two certain goals he always knew he could.
While living in East Texas, Clair has been the Executive Director of the Women's Center, an Adult Felony Probation Officer, the teaching field and is now a realtor for Suzanne Cook and Co. Their son, Blaine was born in 1992. He was born with physical handicaps, but those have not handicapped his personality! This cheerful and positive young man loves to golf, go horseback riding, and play any sport that he can. The entire family is active members of Trinity Episcopal Church in Longview.
When Dr. Balliett isn’t working, he likes to spend time at his deer lease and travel with his family. He likes all sports, mostly watching though, because he claims he is too old to participate. He also enjoys spending time with his family and working around his house. Dr. Balliett, Clair, and Blaine share their home with Sweetie, a female cat who even sleeps with them. Dr. Balliett never thought he would ever allow an animal to sleep in their bed, but Sweetie quickly captured their hearts. They have recently added a dog to their home, Sarge, a beautiful golden retriever.
After joining the practice in 1986, Dr. Balliett says, "We have been in partnership a long time and we're still talking!" Dr. Owens and Dr. Howard share the privilege with Dr. Balliett of being able to call West Loop Animal Hospital not only a business, but a family.
In addition to the continuing education opportunities that Dr. Balliett attends, he is also an active member in the American Veterinary Medical Association, Texas Veterinary Medical Association, Gregg County Veterinary Medical Association, East Texas Veterinary Association, and the East Texas Pet Emergency Hospital. He is also the past President of the East Texas Pet Emergency Hospital, an after-hours pet emergency care facility in Longview. Dr. Balliett also remains on the Executive Board of the East Texas Pet Emergency Hospital.
Dr. Balliett, the one who towers over the rest of us in more ways than just physically, is professional and proficient. His knowledge of veterinary medicine is most impressive, which is a comfort to his clients as well as his staff. Dr. Balliett not only has a sense of humor, but he manages to keep his staff motivated and inspired.
