Who We Are
Balie Inglish White, DVM
The daughter of a nurse and a true cowboy in Vernon, Texas, Dr. White was raised in the saddle helping her father tend to the cattle and work the land. As a young adult, Dr. White began the journey to combine their two professions to become a veterinarian. After graduating from Texas A&M University with her degree in Veterinary Medicine, Dr. White completed her veterinary internship at the legendary 6666 Ranch providing veterinary services to racing and ranching quarter horses as well as cattle. If you don’t find Dr. White’s smile at the clinic, chances are you will find her riding a horse or working in the yard with her two dogs. Dr White is a member of the, the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) the Texas Equine Veterinary Association (TEVA), The Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA), and American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP).
Byron Norton, DVM
Growing up on a farm and ranch in the Texas Panhandle, Dr. Norton was immersed in agriculture and animals from day one. Experiencing the importance that animals have in people’s lives is what inspired him to become a veterinarian. Dr. Norton obtained his BS in Animal Science and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees from Texas A&M University. His free time is spent with his wife Amy and two daughters Ruby and Scarlett. Dr. Norton is a member of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVAM), and the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA).
Joel Rodriguez, DVM
Dr. Rodriguez grew up in Zapata, a rural town in South Texas. From a young age, he spent many weekends helping his family work cattle at their ranch. He quickly developed a love for animals, and as he grew older, his passion for science and medicine led him to the path of becoming a veterinarian. Dr. Rodriguez obtained his B.S. in Animal Science in 2018 and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Texas A&M University in 2022. During his free time, Joel loves to travel and explore Dallas with his wife, Carsen. They have two dogs, Maggie and Theo. Dr. Rodriguez is also a devoted Aggie sports fan and golfer. Dr. Rodriguez is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and The Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA).
Laurel Hampton, DVM
Dr. Hampton grew up a military child, living in 11 different cities and states before graduating high school. Though she spent years on the road, her strongest sense of home was on her grandparents ranch in Abilene, TX. From a young age, Dr. Hampton has always had a strong passion for being a voice and advocate for animals, which is why she passionately chose veterinary medicine as her career. Dr. Hampton obtained her B.S. in Animal Science with a minor in Chemistry in 2020 from Texas Tech University and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Texas A&M University in 2026. Her free time is spent with her husband, Hunter, and their dog Sarge, either reading a good book or exploring new places to eat in the Dallas area. Dr. Hampton is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Texas Veterinary Medical Association.
Hope Merriam, DVM
Dr. Merriam was born and raised in Allen. From a young age, she recognized her love for learning about science, solving problems, caring for animals, and helping people; thus veterinary medicine was the perfect calling. Following graduation from Allen High School in 2019, she pursued her undergraduate and professional education at Texas A&M University, where she obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree in 2026. Dr. Merriam is thrilled to return to Allen and give back to her community. In her free time, she enjoys trying new coffee shops and cheering on her favorite sports teams. Dr. Merriam is a member of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), and the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA).
Our Roots
Gary “Doc” Hefner, DVM
Allen Animal Clinic has a rich history dating back to January of 1972 when our founder, Gary “Doc” Hefner opened Allen Animal Clinic, Allen’s first veterinary facility to primarily treat livestock and horses. Doc Hefner continued to treat animals, both large and small, until he retired in 2017. Doc’s impact on the community was on full display as Allen Image Magazine profiled him in their January 2018 issue. Today, you can check out the full article in our lobby over in Doc’s Corner. We hope to carry out his legacy as we continue to serve the community. Dr. Hefner’s memorial tribute can be found here.
