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Western Branch Veterinary Hospital

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Our Veterinarian

Meet the folks who make it all happen. We see big potential in every moment, and care deeply about what we do every day.

Dr. Robert Porter

Co-Owner, Veterinarian

Although Dr. Porter’s original career direction was in the field of biomedical research, after spending eight years in the academic research environment it became clear that the most rewarding part of his research work came when he was dealing with animals! It was because of this, that after completing his master’s degree at The Medical College of Virginia, Dr. Porter entered the veterinary program at The Virginia Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech.)

Dr. Porter was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Since his father was a pilot in the Air Force, his family moved around a lot when Bob was young, even spending a stint in Naples, Italy before ending up in Virginia. He received his undergraduate degree from James Madison University, where he would meet his wife and future co-owner of Western Branch Veterinary Hospital, Diana. Dr. Porter also holds a Master’s degree in Physiology and Biophysics, as well as his veterinary degree from the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine.

After six years of working as an Associate Veterinarian, Dr. Porter was ready to open his own practice. Diana was the one who noticed a small brick building near the townhouse where they lived. In 1997, they rented the building, renovated it, and opened the brand-new Western Branch Veterinary Hospital to the public!

Surgery is one of Bob’s favorite aspects of veterinary work, something he’s been interested in since his days in research. He also loves educating clients on the best possible care for their pets, and forming long-lasting relationships with his clients and patients. Dr. Porter also enjoys teaching the next generation of veterinary professionals. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Porter holds a position as an adjunct faculty member with Northern Virginia Community College. In this capacity, Dr. Porter and WBVH provide educational opportunities and mentorship for students in their Veterinary Technician program.

Dr. Porter and his wife have two children, Matthew and Kaitlyn, both of whom are in college. When he has time away from the clinic, Bob likes to play golf and strum his guitar. He enjoys attending the performance and defensive driving school at Spartansburg, SC with his children.