BJC Announces New Veterinarian - Dr. Barbara Benhart

Steve Smith, Director of Birmingham-Jefferson County (BJC) Animal Control Services, announced today the addition of Dr. Barbara Benhart, as the new onsite veterinarian for the shelter. Benhart’s responsibilities will include providing care, nutrition and parasite control for all animals at the facility, as well as performing heartworm evaluations and vaccinations for adoptable pets.

“Dr. Benhart will be an asset to the shelter, and I am extremely excited about bringing her to BJC,” says Smith. “She is an animal welfare professional of the highest caliber with exceptional experience and immense knowledge of the job.”

Benhart, who earned her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Auburn University, brings more than 40 years of veterinarian experience to BJC’s staff. Benhart also owns and operates her own mobile clinic practicing equine medicine and surgery on large animals.

“My goal in this new role is to provide a higher level of care for BJC animals than they were receiving prior to coming into our facility, as well as to relieve any of their current suffering. Every animal deserves to be fed, loved and treated with respect,” says Benhart.

Benhart currently serves as secretary and executive board member for the Jefferson County Veterinary Medical Association. Additionally, she is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the American Association of Equine Practitioners and the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association. She previously served as president of the Alabama State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners and was an ECFVG Step 3 and 4 Task Force Member of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

BJC receives between 10,000 and 12,000 animals at its facility each year. It is one of the only organizations in the state involved in animal control or welfare to employ a full-time staff veterinarian licensed by the Alabama State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.

Smith has operated the BJC facility without a full-time veterinarian since mid-December. During this time, a veterinarian visited the facility three times a week to provide proper care for the animals.