Good medicine.
People who care.
Every member of our team plays a part in your pet's care. From the first phone call to the exam room and the follow-up, we're here to help you feel welcome, informed, and supported.
We're a fourth-generation family veterinary practice, and lasting relationships are at the heart of what we do.
Meet our doctors.
Thoughtful care starts with listening, clear explanations, and recommendations built around your pet.
Dr. Michael
Raised in a veterinary family, Dr. Michael learned the importance of hard work, integrity, and serving his community from a young age. He is committed to honest, compassionate care and clear communication, helping pet owners make informed decisions about their pets’ health and well-being.
More about Dr. Michael
A Rocky Mount, NC, native, Dr. Michael earned his Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Auburn University in 2006, followed by a Master of Agriculture in 2008. He received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from St. George’s University in 2012.
Following graduation, Dr. Michael 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 across several small animal clinics, gaining experience in general practice and overnight emergency care.
In 2016, Dr. Michael returned home to assume ownership of Hicks Animal Clinic from his father, Dr. Stuart Hicks, continuing his family’s legacy of trusted veterinary care in the Rocky Mount community.
Dr. Parker
Dr. Parker graduated from Lincoln Memorial University in 2021 and practiced veterinary medicine in Virginia Beach until 2025 before returning to Eastern North Carolina. Her professional interests include dermatology, preventive care, and internal medicine. She is passionate about providing compassionate care and building lasting relationships with pet owners to support their pets’ health at every stage of life.
More about Dr. Parker
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Parker enjoys paddleboarding, bird watching, and hiking local trails with her husband and their two Great Danes, Zara and Darcy. At home, her spirited and entertaining cat, Piper, keeps her on her toes.
Dr. Claire
Dr. Claire Shields, a native of Edenton, NC, knew from a young age that she wanted to be a veterinarian. As a child, she could often be found “diagnosing” and “treating” her stuffed animals. Today, she is passionate about educating pet owners and helping pets live long, healthy lives. Her professional interests include preventive care, senior pet care, dermatology, dentistry, and surgery.
More about Dr. Claire
Dr. Shields earned her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from the University of Maryland, College Park, in 2019. She graduated 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. She shares her home with two cats, Jordan and Sebastian, and her dog, Snoopy.
Our management team.
Supporting our people, our practice, and the experience you have with us.
A warm welcome starts here.
Our client service representatives help with appointments, questions, and the details that keep your pet’s care moving.
Care in every detail.
Our veterinary assistants support our doctors, care for patients, and help pets feel more comfortable throughout their visit.
We look forward to meeting you.
Here for your pet. Here for you.