Our Team in Locust Grove

Dr. Marco Fuentes, D.V.M. – Medical Director

From an early age, Dr. Fuentes felt inspired by the remarkable impact veterinarians can have on both animals and the families who love them. That passion guided him through an exceptional veterinary education and continues to shape the compassionate, detail-oriented care he provides every day at The Grove Animal Hospital, where he proudly serves as our Medical Director.

Dr. Fuentes earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 2012 from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)—a university internationally recognized for its rigorous academic standards and commitment to excellence in veterinary medicine. After graduating, he moved to the United States, where he has practiced in both Florida and Georgia, bringing with him a strong foundation in clinical medicine, leadership, and a heartfelt dedication to client partnership.

Throughout his career, Dr. Fuentes has developed a deep passion for internal medicine, especially when it comes to diagnosing and managing complex cases. As Medical Director, he leads our team in upholding the highest standards of veterinary care, emphasizing thorough diagnostics, clear communication, and a collaborative approach that ensures families feel informed, supported, and confident in their pet’s treatment plan.

In addition to his hospital leadership, Dr. Fuentes remains committed to community service. He has participated in numerous spay and neuter programs across Georgia, Florida, and Mexico, helping reduce pet overpopulation and expanding access to veterinary care for underserved communities. His commitment to service reflects his belief that every animal deserves compassionate, high-quality care.

Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Fuentes embraces a rich and adventurous personal life. He enjoys exploring international cuisine, traveling to experience new cultures, learning new languages, and staying active through running.

At home in Georgia, Dr. Fuentes shares life with his wife—who works as a researcher for the CDC—their baby, Leo, and a fun-loving family of pets that includes dogs, cats, a chinchilla, and two chickens. Their home is lively, full of character, and a perfect reflection of his belief in the joy animals bring to everyday life.

Driven by compassion, curiosity, and a genuine love for the pets he serves, Dr. Fuentes is honored to lead the medical team at The Grove Animal Hospital. His expertise, leadership, and dedication to exceptional care make him a trusted partner in supporting the lifelong health and happiness of every patient he meets.

For as long as he can remember, Dr. Roy Smith has felt a natural calling to care for animals. That passion began at just seven years old, when a visit to the family veterinarian with his childhood dog sparked a lifelong commitment to helping pets live healthier, happier lives.

A proud Georgia native from Stone Mountain, Dr. Smith spent his youth surrounded by animals and fascinated by their behavior and well-being. His interest led him to the University of Georgia, where he earned his Bachelor of Agriculture in 1983, followed by his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the UGA College of Veterinary Medicine in 1988.

After graduation, Dr. Smith moved to California and built a remarkable 36-year career in small animal and exotic medicine. Known for his calm, reassuring presence and thoughtful approach to care, he developed an exceptional reputation among clients and colleagues alike. For 20 of those years, he owned and operated a successful small animal and exotic practice in Northern California, where he mentored young veterinarians and formed lasting relationships with generations of families.

In 2023, Dr. Smith and his wife, Heather, returned home to Georgia to enjoy retirement and be closer to family. However, he quickly realized how much he missed the fulfillment that comes from veterinary medicine—the problem-solving, the patient connections, and the privilege of supporting the human–animal bond. That love for the profession brought him out of retirement and to The Grove Animal Hospital, where he is thrilled to continue doing what he loves most.

Dr. Smith’s clinical interests include exotic pet medicine—caring for birds, reptiles, and small mammals—as well as surgery, where his years of experience and steady hands provide pets with exceptional care. He prioritizes blending advanced medical knowledge with genuine compassion, taking the time to listen, educate, and partner with families in their pets’ lifelong health.

Outside of the hospital, Dr. Smith lives an active and adventurous life. He is a dedicated tennis player, regularly competing in USTA and ALTA men’s and mixed doubles leagues. A licensed general aviation pilot, he proudly flies his 1947 V-tail Bonanza and enjoys living in an air-park community where aviation and camaraderie naturally collide.

He also embraces one of his more unique passions—pinball. What began as a relaxed hobby has become a full-blown love for restoring, maintaining, and collecting vintage machines. His collection now includes more than 17 games, with Funhouse holding the title of all-time favorite.

At home, Dr. Smith and Heather share life with their daughter, Lilly, and a very full household—three dogs, three cats, a cockatoo, and even a possum, each one a beloved family member.

Above all, Dr. Smith remains inspired by the same feeling that started it all: the joy of helping animals and the people who love them. His warmth, experience, and sense of humor make him a valued part of The Grove Animal Hospital team and a trusted partner in your pet’s health and happiness.

Dr. Kyle Thornton is a proud graduate of the Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine, Class of 2014, and an Athens, Georgia native who firmly believes there’s no problem in life that can’t be improved with good barbecue, a power tool, or a strong defensive line. (#GoDawgs)

Dr. Thornton’s path to veterinary medicine has always been guided by a genuine appreciation for the bond between animals and the people who love them. As a veterinarian, he is committed to providing exceptional medical care while ensuring pets and their families feel comfortable, informed, and supported throughout every stage of treatment. He values clear communication, thoughtful guidance, and meeting each family where they are—whether navigating preventive care, managing chronic conditions, or addressing unexpected medical concerns.

One of Dr. Thornton’s greatest strengths is his ability to form strong, lasting relationships with clients and their pets. He strives to create an environment where everyone feels heard and understood—and ideally leaves with fewer worries and maybe a laugh or two. His approachable, down-to-earth style makes him a reassuring presence during stressful moments and a trusted partner in long-term pet health.

Dr. Thornton also takes great pride in working alongside a veterinary team that prioritizes compassion, collaboration, and the occasional well-timed joke to get through the busiest days. He enjoys the balance of science, problem-solving, and human connection that comes with veterinary medicine, and he approaches each case with patience, kindness, and a genuine passion for helping animals thrive.

Outside of the hospital, Dr. Thornton enjoys all things hands-on—whether it’s home projects, tools, or grilling something worth bragging about. His roots in Athens remain an important part of who he is, especially on game days, when his support for the Dawgs is unwavering.

Dr. Thornton is proud to be part of The Grove Animal Hospital, where he brings expertise, heart, and a sense of humor to the care of every patient he meets. If there’s one thing he hopes clients feel when they leave an appointment with him, it’s confidence—confidence in their pet’s care and in the team dedicated to providing it.