A new vet in Opp could change the way animals receive treatment.

Dr. Roger Story recently bought the Opp Veterinary Hospital on Hwy. 52 in Opp.

Story, who’s been practicing for more than 18 years, moved from Nashville to be closer to family and get back to practicing in a small town atmosphere.

“I’m from the Mobile area and my wife is from Dothan,” he said.

“We moved to be closer to both of our families.”

Story’s passion for veterinary medicine began in college.

“I’d always loved medicine and science in general but I never thought about being an animal doctor versus a human doctor,” he said.

“I’ve always had a passion for animals so that’s when I decided. I went to Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine,” he said.

Story’s passion for animals shows in his personal life. He owns 11 donkeys, 10 ducks, five dogs, two cats and two goats.

Story hopes to help the area as best as he can, by lowering prices and with his certifications.

“I have performed more than 600 successful orthopedic surgeries, working on ACLs and bone plating. I’m also trained in G-Fast ultrasound and I’ve actually been implementing this into regular exams,” he said.

“Because this type of ultrasound can find all sorts of problems like fluid in the lungs, tumors and lung disease. I’ve also drastically lowered prices,”

Story is also very familiar with soft tissue surgeries.

“Usually vets refer people to a specialist when dealing with soft tissue surgeries, but I’m very familiar with them and I’m comfortable with performing them.”

Story’s practiced in Opp for 30 days and already loves the small town feel.

“So far, it’s been great. I love it here. There’s beautiful country roads and no more Nashville traffic. The people who come in are so nice,” he said.

Dr. Faith Drumheiler, the previous owner of the practice, said she’s excited for what Story has to offer to Opp.

“He’s very good for the area. He’s very, very, qualified. He’s keeping all the original staff including Dr. Pattison,” she said.

“I’ll still be apart of the practice, but only by appointment. I’d like to thank my clients for everything. I will really miss them.”

Story also said he’s excited for the future of his new practice.

“I love it here and I’m really excited to see how I can help pet owners in the area,” he said.

Story lives in Coffee County with his wife and five-year-old son.

He enjoys fishing and farming.