Dr. Ann Delbergo-Heskey
Dr. Ann’s love for animals began long before she could name it–she believes she was born to care for them. Raised in New York, her earliest memories include an endless list of imaginary pets ranging from miniature elephants and giraffes to cats and tigers. Stuffed animals were her favorite toys, and she fondly recalls walking outside with her arms outstretched, hoping God would place an animal in them. From caring for grasshoppers and sparrows to holding “conversations” with squirrels–one of whom famously told her she was a nut–her compassion for animals was evident from the start.
By the age of 6, Dr. Ann confidently told her mother she was going to be an animal doctor. From that moment on, her path was clear. She graduated from Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1996 and moved to Mississippi shortly thereafter to begin living her dream.
Early in 1997, Dr. Ann joined Saucier Veterinary Hospital, and she has been serving the community ever since. Not long after, her sister, Michelle, –whose talents and dedication she greatly valued–joined the team. Tragically, Michelle lost her battle with metastatic breast cancer in 2018.
Dr. Ann works with both small and large animals, and she has gained extensive experience with exotic pets through her partnership with Dr. James Askew over the past 30 years. Her professional interests include soft tissue and reconstructive surgery, internal medicine, endocrine disorders, cardiac disease, dermatology, and gastrointestinal conditions.
Dr. Ann has also developed a special interest in potbelly pigs, which have become popular pets once again. Though they can be quite vocal, she finds them to be rewarding patients and has achieved great success in treating them.
Above all, Dr. Ann cherishes the relationships she builds with her patients and their families. She is deeply grateful for the support, prayers, and kindness she has received from clients throughout the years–especially during her journey through cancer diagnosis and treatment. She is now in remission and gives thanks to her Savior Jesus Christ for carrying her through those valleys. Praise God.