Dr. Mark A. Ayers graduated from West Virginia University with honors and with a BS degree in animal science. He is a 1979 graduate of Auburn University School of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Ayers founded Ayers Animal Hospital after purchasing the practice of Dr. Harry ‘Bert’ Willet in 1983. He decided at the young age of 6 that he wanted to become a veterinarian. His family was always surrounded by animals of all types, including milk cows, pigs, chickens, work horses, and dogs. Dr. Ayers always had a keen interest in both human and animal medicine and loved the sciences. One of his most treasured Christmas presents was a microscope for which his mom and dad sacrificed to purchase for him. Because of his love of people, animals, and science, he has devoted his entire academic career and life to veterinary medicine. Even now after over 45 years of private practice, Dr. Ayers still loves his profession as much as ever. He strives to stay abreast with the latest developments in his field, maintaining a keen interest in dermatology, internal medicine, cardiology, ultrasonography, surgery, and radiology. What began as a solo practice has grown over the past years to a busy five-doctor practice. Dr. Ayers takes great pride in the facility. He has been married to his wife Judy for 45 years and has three children; Diana, Jeremy, and Charity. Dr. Ayers and Judy currently share their home with their dog, Teddy Bear. They sadly miss their cat Cuddles, who shared their home for 15 years, and Simba their Golden Retriever of 13 years [citation].