Our Veterinary Care Team
Compassionate care starts with people who truly care.
At Hicks Animal Clinic, every member of our team plays an important role in your pet’s care. From our veterinarians and veterinary assistants to our client service and leadership teams, we work together to create a welcoming, supportive experience for every pet and person who walks through our doors.
We are hardworking, down-to-earth, and passionate about helping animals live healthier, happier lives. Whether your pet is visiting us for preventive care, illness, surgery, dental treatment, or simply a little extra reassurance, our team is committed to providing thoughtful care with honesty, compassion, and attention to detail.
As a fourth-generation family veterinary practice, we believe great veterinary care is built on trust and lasting relationships. We look forward to getting to know you, caring for your pets, and welcoming you into the Hicks Animal Clinic family.
Meet the people who make compassionate veterinary care possible every day.
Meet Our Doctors
dr. michael
Raised in a veterinary family, Dr. Michael learned the values of hard work, integrity, and ethical service to the community from a young age. He is dedicated to maintaining transparent communication with pet owners, helping them make informed decisions for the health and well-being of their beloved animals. Dr. Michael approaches every patient with honesty, compassion, and consideration, upholding the highest standards of veterinary care.
Born in Rocky Mount, NC, Dr. Michael attended Auburn University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science in 2006 and a Master of Agriculture in 2008. He went on to receive his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from St. George’s University in 2012. Following graduation, he completed an externship at an integrative veterinary practice, gaining experience in acupuncture and herbal therapy. He also worked in a high-volume spay/neuter shelter and a small animal practice, rotating between multiple clinics and handling both general practice and overnight emergency care.
In 2016, Dr. Michael returned to his Rocky Mount roots to assume ownership of Hicks Animal Clinic, taking over from his father, Dr. Stuart Hicks, and continuing a legacy of trusted veterinary care in the community.
DR. PARKER
Dr. Parker graduated from Lincoln Memorial University in 2021 and practiced veterinary medicine in Virginia Beach from 2021 to 2025 before returning to Eastern North Carolina to continue her career. She has a special passion for veterinary dermatology, preventative care, and internal medicine, and is committed to providing exceptional care while building lasting relationships with pet owners to support their pets’ health at every stage of life.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Parker is an avid nature enthusiast. She enjoys paddleboarding, hiking local trails with her husband and their two Great Danes, Zara and Darcy, and bird watching. At home, she is kept on her toes by Piper, her spirited and entertaining cat.
Dr. Claire
Dr. Claire Shields, a native of Edenton, NC, knew from a young age that she wanted to be a veterinarian, often “diagnosing” and “treating” her stuffed animals as a child. Today, she is passionate about educating pet owners and helping pets live long, healthy lives. Her areas of interest include preventative care, senior pet care, dermatology, dentistry, and surgery.
Dr. Shields earned her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from the University of Maryland, College Park in 2019. She went on to graduate from Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2023 before relocating to Rocky Mount, NC, to be closer to family.
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Shields enjoys traveling, reading, horseback riding, and cheering on the Carolina Hurricanes. At home, she shares her life with two cats, Jordan and Sebastian, and a dog named Snoopy.
Our Management Team
Our Client Service Representatives
Our Veterinary Assistants
Passionate Vet Care Professionals
Don't hesitate to contact us for more information, pricing, or to set up an appointment. We are always eager to meet new people and their pets!
