A Passion for Animals, A Commitment to Care

Meet Dr. Lori Leigh Ward

Dr. Lori Leigh Ward is a Tupelo native who grew up showing and breeding quarter horses. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Mississippi State University and has been practicing since 2018. In 2020, she opened Ward Veterinary Services to provide compassionate, high-quality care to the community she calls home.

Dr. Ward’s professional interests include soft tissue surgery and internal medicine. She also serves as the veterinarian for the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo, extending her expertise to a variety of animals.

Outside the clinic, she enjoys spending time with her son William Cole, riding and showing horses, vacationing, and embroidering. Her animal family includes her Poodle Jenny, Irish Setter Doodle Fancy, miniature horse Calamari, and quarter horses Bling, Baby Bling, Ralph, Jewel, and Turbo.

Locally Owned. Family Focused. Compassion Driven.

At Ward Veterinary Services, we believe that every pet deserves expert, compassionate care from a team that truly treats them like family.

As one of the last locally owned veterinary clinics in Tupelo, MS, we take pride in serving our community with personalized, high-quality veterinary care.

Our Team

Tess Parker

Tess Parker is currently training as a veterinary assistant at Ward Veterinary Services, where she’s turning her lifelong love for animals into a meaningful career. With a strong desire to grow her skills and make a difference, Tess thrives in the fast-paced, hands-on environment of veterinary care.

At home, she’s kept on her toes by her energetic Border Collie, Vegas, and two affectionate Domestic Short Hair cats, Chapo and Boogie. Outside the clinic, Tess enjoys playing piano at her church, attending classes at Itawamba Community College, and offering dog-sitting services in her spare time.

Tess is passionate about helping animals heal, grow, and live their best lives—and she feels deeply honored to be a part of every pet’s story.

Veterinary Assistant

Jima Phifer

Been an assistant for 5 years and have been with Ward
Veterinary Services for 4 years.

Jima has a son and daughter,

she enjoys spending time with
her Great Dane Titan, Remi a blind and deaf Australian Shephard, and Toast a domestic short hair cat that has an amputated tail.

Jima is well known in the clinic. She is our “go to” woman.

The patients and clients love seeing Jima.

Jima likes helping animals in need and her favorite part of
working here is assisting with complicated surgical/medical cases and treating
those sick patients.

Veterinary Assistant

Tanya Murphree

With over 20 years of customer service experience in both veterinary and human healthcare, Tanya Murphree brings warmth and efficiency to the front desk at Ward Veterinary Services.

A lifelong resident of Mooreville, MS, Tanya shares her home with her husband David, daughters Kylie and Ella, and granddaughter Rylee Grace. Her son Zack proudly serves in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Tanya has a soft spot for animals in need, which is reflected in her own beloved menagerie.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her granddaughter and showcasing her crocheted creations at local craft fairs.

Front Desk

Hank

Hank is a three-year-old Maine Coon mix who has quickly become the heart and soul of Ward Veterinary Services. Adopted from a client six months ago, Hank now calls the clinic home—and has stolen the hearts of everyone who meets him.

Affectionately known as “Hank the Tank,” he spends his days greeting patients, supervising the team, and making sure every visitor gets a dose of purr therapy. Hank’s laid-back personality and larger-than-life charm make him a beloved member of the Ward Veterinary Services family.

Clinic Cat

Butterbean

Butterbean is a 1.5-year-old Calico who has been part of the Ward Veterinary Services family since she was just a kitten. Known for her bold personality and independent spirit, Butterbean adds a little spice—and a lot of character—to the clinic every day.

Whether she’s greeting clients at the front desk or lounging in her favorite sunny spot, Butterbean is always ready to make her presence known. With her colorful coat and sassy attitude, she’s a favorite among the team and visitors alike.

Clinic Cat

Why Choose Us?

Experienced & Compassionate Team

Our team is committed to providing gentle, thorough care for every patient

Comprehensive Veterinary Services

From wellness exams to surgery, grooming, boarding, and emergency care, we offer everything your pet needs.

One of the Last Locally Owned Clinics in Tupelo

We believe in community-focused care with a personal touch.

A Commitment to Your Pet’s Health

We treat every animal like our own, ensuring they receive the best possible care.

Up To Date Technology

We use modern diagnostic and treatment tools to ensure faster results, more accurate care, and better outcomes for every pet we serve.

Our Services

Compassionate & Comprehensive Veterinary Care

Wellness & Preventative Care

Keeping Your Pet Healthy for Life

Routine exams, vaccinations, and parasite prevention to support long-term wellness.

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Emergency & Urgent Care

Here When You Need Us Most

Prompt and expert care for accidents, sudden illnesses, and urgent conditions.

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Surgery

Expert Surgical Care with Compassion

From spay and neuter procedures to advanced surgeries, your pet is in trusted hands.

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Vaccinations & Parasite Control

Protection Against

Common Threats

Vaccinations and year-round parasite prevention are key to avoiding serious illnesses.

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Dental Care

Bright Smiles

and Better Health

We offer cleanings, exams, and extractions to keep mouths pain-free.

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Bathing

Gentle Care for a

Clean & Happy Pet

From full-service baths and brush-outs to medicated skin treatments, we keep your pet clean, comfortable, and feeling great.

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Equine Care

Trusted Care

for Horses, Too

Wellness, vaccinations, deworming, lameness exams, and laceration repair—plus convenient farm call availability.

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End-of-Life Care

Compassionate Support Through Difficult Times

We’re here to help guide you through your pet’s final chapter with dignity, comfort, and compassion for both you and your animal.

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Diagnostics & Imaging

Quick, Accurate Answers When You Need Them

In-house lab work, digital X-rays, ultrasound, ECG, and Imagyst technology for quick, detailed testing—including blood smear, dermatology, urine sediment, fecal, and cytology evaluation.

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ICU & Critical Care

Advanced Monitoring

& Support

24-hour monitoring, advanced treatment, and oxygen cage therapy for pets requiring constant care and stabilization.

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Pet Boarding

A Safe & Comfortable Stay

At Ward Veterinary Services, we offer safe, clean, and comfortable boarding accommodations for both dogs and cats

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Internal Medicine

Advanced diagnostics and compassionate care

We manage internal medicine cases thoroughly to help avoid the need for outside referrals whenever possible.

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Caring for Your Pets Like They’re Our Own

At Ward Veterinary Services, we know that pets are family. Whether it’s a routine check-up, emergency care, or a stay in our boarding facility, we’re here to keep your pets healthy, happy, and safe.