Passing the Torch: A New Chapter Begins for Animal ER of Northwest Houston
After more than a decade of commitment to the Cy-Fair community, Dr. Jennifer Hennessey, the founding veterinarian of Animal ER of Northwest Houston, is ready to pass the mantle to Dr. Michelle Withrow.
Born in Garland, Texas, Dr. Hennessey has made significant contributions to the veterinary field since her graduation Cum Laude from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in 2005. Inspired by her late father and driven by a vision of providing emergency care that supports the entire family, not just the pets, she launched Animal ER in 2014. A dedicated weightlifter, bodybuilder, current reigning Mrs. Alaska 2022 and an outdoor enthusiast, Dr. Hennessey now looks forward to more time in Alaska with her husband, a retired pilot, leaving behind a legacy built with compassion, grit and a dedicated team.
"After a decade of round-the-clock service to the community and coordinating efforts to stay staffed and promote our mission, it’s time for me to claim some much-needed rest and recovery," said Dr. Hennessey, who juggles her time between family commitments, veterinary work in Texas, and a home in Alaska. "Passing on the clinic to Dr. Withrow, preserves the unique element of Animal ER being a privately-owned, woman-owned practice."
From left to right: Dr. Michelle Winthrow; Kristen Grady, Practice Manager; Dr. Jennifer Hennessey.(Source: Animal ER of Northwest Houston)
Dr. Withrow, a native of Ponca City, Oklahoma, has been working at Animal ER of Northwest Houston as Hospital Director for 1.5 years. With a background that includes volunteering at veterinary clinics and a bachelor's degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Oklahoma State University, she is well placed to continue the good work of her predecessor. She has a professional interest in dentistry, soft tissue surgery, diabetes mellitus and pain management, and she is actively involved in the TVMA and AVMA.
When not providing care, Dr. Winthrow enjoys target shooting, flower gardening, horseback riding, watching OSU sports, and spending time with her family. She lives in Sealy with her husband, two children, and two "furry" children.
"Dr. Hennessey’s vision of an emergency practice designed and devoted to the customized care of both families and their pets inspired me to join Animal ER," Dr. Withrow said. "I'm honored to continue this legacy, and look forward to expanding and improving our services in the long term."
Animal ER of Northwest Houston has continued to flourish under their stewardship, earning several accolades - including the 2023 Best of the Best Veterinarian in Houston by the Houston Chronicle, 2021 and 2020 Cypress Business Award, and 2019 DVM Top500 US Award, among many others. Dr. Hennessey’s impact has reached beyond her practice, as she is a published veterinary journalist, has made appearances on various news outlets, and has partnered with the City of Houston and Harris County for animal cruelty task force efforts.
Dr. Jennifer Hennessey with Scarlett Jo, one of Dr. Winthrow's fur babies.Beyond their professional accomplishments, both Dr. Hennessey and Dr. Withrow are grounded in their communities, with Dr. Hennessey involved in the Cypress Women's Club and the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce.
As one era ends and a new one begins, the residents and pets of Cy-Fair can rest assured that the compassionate, custom care they have come to expect from Animal ER of Northwest Houston is in very capable hands.
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Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
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