To our clients, past and present, it's hard to believe that it's been 10 years since I acquired Commonwealth Veterinary Hospital from doctors Denk and Prescottano. I've done many things in my nearly 40 year career in veterinary medicine, but none have been as rewarding as this phase of my life. The enjoyment I get everyday from my relationships with the clients and patients of CVH is truly exceptional, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of your lives. 

During the last 10 years we've worked hard to transform this practice inside and out, taking it from its life as a very good veterinary practice and carrying it into a new life as an exceptional one. This transformation started with the decision to bring new technology and equipment into the practice, including digital xray equipment, a new in-house diagnostic lab, ultrasound equipment, a CO2 laser for surgery, and all of the machinery necessary to perform endoscopy, rhinoscopy, and more. We've also worked hard to transform the exterior of Commonwealth Veterinary Hospital and to do as much as possible to make it easier to get in and out of this building on a hill. Although we will never be able to change the elevation of the hospital or install an escalator as many have thoughtfully suggested, we've done everything possible to transform both the interior and the exterior of this building, and it's been tremendously rewarding to see this facility change over time. These improvements, however, would be nothing without the transformation we've seen in the team at CVH. We've built what I feel is an extraordinary team of doctors who each bring their extensive experience, unique skillsets, and varied areas of expertise to work with them each day. They are of course supported by a terrific staff of veterinary technicians who are all so caring in their approach to their jobs, and by a front office staff who have transformed the client experience at the front desk. I am thankful every day for the team here at CVH, as they are the ones that leverage their extensive skills along with all the new technology we've added to make for the very best patient care outcomes.

I purchased Commonwealth Veterinary Hospital in search of a change in lifestyle and a chance to do what I loved most, and it has not disappointed me for a moment. In my nearly 40 years in this field, I've gone from my beginnings in private practice, through a gamut of experiences in the business sector, and then into the world of nonprofits at the ASPCA in New York City and eventually the MSPCA Angell here in Boston after 9/11 changed my life forever. Each experience brought a new level of knowledge and appreciation for this field to my life, but after tiring of boards of directors and all the politics of larger organizations, I made the decision to return to my roots in general practice and could not be more happy I did. It has allowed me to train with some of the best experts in their fields to re-hone my skills in medicine and surgery, and has given me the opportunity to learn some of the newest techniques in oral health and surgery. The last 10 years have been some of the hardest working years of my life, but also some of the most rewarding. This time at CVH has also allowed me the opportunity to work directly with my wife and kids, which has been a tremendous privilege for which I'm very grateful.  

More than any of these things, though, I'm grateful for our great clients and their four legged friends who visit us every day. You all make this the most fulfilling and fun job imaginable. I am asked regularly if I am retiring and my answer is always the same. No. I love my job too much to stop. The animals and the client relationships are very special to me and enrich my soul far too much to quit so soon. Please accept my sincere thanks to everyone who has been part of our growth and success. I look forward to seeing what the next ten years will bring! 

With immense gratitude,

Dr. Hawk