Jennifer Hennessey, DVM

Photo by April Sanchez of Taylor Morgan Photography

By Annette Brooks

Dr. Jennifer Hennessey’s approach to life is one of leadership, independence, strength, and service. She applies these values to everything she undertakes, whether she’s handling an emergency at her award-winning emergency veterinary practice, being crowned Mrs. Texas U.S., volunteering as the trail vet for the Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race in Alaska, or working with the Harris County Animal Cruelty Taskforce.

The mother of two credits her father for sparking her interest in becoming a veterinarian and for living with purpose. “Dad helped strays and rescued practically anything alive. His innate desire to help those who couldn’t help themselves was a powerful, positive influence in my life.”

Dr. Hennessey graduated cum laude from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in 2005, becoming the only college graduate and doctor in her family. Following her dream to enter into private practice, she founded Animal ER of Northwest Houston in 2014. A certified canine rehabilitation practitioner, she then founded Wonder Pet Rehab & Recovery.

“The special bonds we have with our own pets and those we serve encourage us to continuously improve and to provide an all-around exceptional experience for pets and pet parents alike,” says Dr. Hennessey.

Although Dr. Hennessey’s “rock”— her father — recently passed away, his legacy lives on in her. “I’ve always wanted to make my dad proud,” she confides. “Every second in life matters. I believe it’s important to find your passion and follow it, and to make a difference.”

One of Dr. Hennessey’s great passions is health, fitness, and bodybuilding. She is the top 10 finalist in Mrs. United States of America, the current reigning Ms. Texas World Universal, and is a pro athlete with the IFBB after she won nationals in 2018.

“I became interested in the pageant experience because all the participants support causes, including standing up and fighting for children and women who are victims of domestic violence. It’s dynamic and ignited a fire inside me to do more within my community as a leader. I believe in self-discovery and that women can be bold and strong and break through barriers.”

Dr. Hennessey’s involved in numerous national, state, and community organizations and activities. One example is partnering with the City of Houston and Harris County, along with Precinct 5, volunteering her expertise and services for the Harris County Animal Cruelty Taskforce. Her newest endeavor is creating her Blonde Vet brand and refocusing her public figure under it. “Being a veterinarian, my service to others, and serving as a leader and role model for women will be rolled under this umbrella,” she says.

Some of the brightest moments for Dr. Hennessey are when she can share the joy of healing with pets and their owners. “We have a great team of vets and staff at Animal ER of Northwest Houston and Wonder Pet,” she says, “who share my passion for serving and understand that pets are family members.”