Southport veterinarian named regional Veterinary Professional of the Year

SOUTHPORT, N.C. (WWAY) — A Southport veterinarian has been recognized as one of this year’s recipients of a Veterinary Appreciation Day award program honoring veterinary professionals across North America.

Jennifer Derby, a veterinarian at River Road Animal Hospital in Southport, was named the 2026 U.S. East Veterinarian winner in the Veterinary Appreciation Day Awards, according to an announcement  by pet insurance company Trupanion.

The awards program, established in 2015, recognizes veterinarians, veterinary support staff and veterinary teams nominated by pet owners, colleagues and community members. Organizers said this year’s program received nearly 2,000 nominations and more than 86,000 public votes.

Derby was one of 12 winners selected from the United States and Canada.

According to Trupanion, the awards are intended to recognize veterinary professionals who have made a significant impact on the lives of pets and their owners through their work.

Veterinary Appreciation Day was created to highlight the contributions of veterinarians and veterinary staff, whose work often includes providing medical care, emergency treatment and support for pet owners during difficult situations.

Other award categories recognized veterinary professionals and teams from locations across the United States and Canada.

River Road Animal Hospital is located in Southport, about 35 miles south of Wilmington.

The recognition comes as veterinary clinics nationwide continue to face increasing demand for pet care services, while the profession has drawn attention to workforce shortages and high rates of occupational stress in recent years.

Additional information about the Veterinary Appreciation Day Awards is available through Trupanion.