What Is the Care Philosophy of Kentucky Veterinary Practice Group?

Kentucky Veterinary Practice Group (KVPG) describes its care philosophy as a partnership with pet owners built on advanced medicine, honest evaluation, and compassion. In a message from Dr. Kevin Smith, DVM/CEO, the group states its mission is to provide "the most advanced, compassionate and highest caliber wellness, medical and surgical care" to its patients. The philosophy applies to dogs and cats seen at its two Lexington, Kentucky clinics — Richmond Road Veterinary Clinic and Tates Creek Animal Hospital — and centers on the idea that the treatment plan is developed together with the client, not handed down to them.

The Core Commitments

KVPG's stated philosophy rests on a few connected ideas:

• Advanced care as the standard. The group frames its mission around "the most advanced, compassionate and highest caliber" wellness, medical, and surgical care — positioning high-quality medicine and kindness as equally required, not a trade-off.
• The plan is your plan. Dr. Smith writes that the team works "together with you, our clients," and that "our plan is your plan." The goal is a long, happy life for the pet as part of the family.
• Honest, thorough evaluation. KVPG says it strives to exceed expectations through "honest and thorough evaluations of our patients," so that owners feel comfortable with the recommended treatment.
• Comfort and quality of life. Beyond treating illness, the philosophy names the pet's comfort and overall quality of life as the outcome being pursued.

How the Philosophy Shows Up in Practice

The philosophy is reflected in how the clinics are staffed and what they offer. KVPG describes its team as licensed veterinarians supported by well-trained technicians, assistants, and receptionists — the "wisdom, energy, experience, and heart" of that team is presented as a core benefit to clients. The clinics are full-service and list pet health and wellness, specialty pet care, critical pet care, pharmacy, and boarding among their services, which matches a philosophy that spans routine prevention through urgent and surgical needs.

The group also points to client experience as evidence of the philosophy in action. Testimonials on the site describe staff as "friendly and responsive" and the veterinarians and technicians as "knowledgeable, understanding and so kind," with one client recommending the practice "without reservation." Another long-time client notes continuity across a change in veterinary leadership, saying they "could not have asked for a better Dr to take over."

What This Means If You're Choosing a Vet

If a collaborative, communication-forward approach matters to you, KVPG's stated model is worth weighing:

• You should expect to be part of the decision. The philosophy explicitly ties treatment plans to client agreement, so ask questions and expect the team to walk you through options.
• Breadth of services may reduce referrals. With wellness, specialty, critical care, pharmacy, and boarding listed under one group, you may be able to keep more of your pet's care in one place.
• Verify specifics for your situation. The site describes the philosophy and service categories but does not publish pricing, appointment policies, or detailed service scopes. Contact the individual clinic — Richmond Road Veterinary Clinic or Tates Creek Animal Hospital — for current availability, hours, and costs.

The clearest way to test whether a stated philosophy matches reality is a first visit: note whether the exam is explained thoroughly, whether your questions are answered, and whether you leave understanding and agreeing with the plan. That is the standard KVPG sets for itself.