Dr. Eric Atwell's path to veterinary medicine began long before he earned his degree. Growing up on a small farm, he developed a natural affinity for animals. At just 14 years old, he began working at Orchards Veterinary Clinic in Vancouver, Washington, inspired by the veterinarian who mentored him there. After earning a degree in Animal Science from Washington State University, he went on to complete his veterinary training at Mississippi State University.
More than 30 years later, Dr. Atwell has retired and sold Orchards Veterinary Clinic — the same place where his career began. For him, the work has always been about more than medicine. It's about the bond between people and their animals.
Dr. Atwell's connection to Northwest Battle Buddies (NWBB) began at the very start of the organization. NWBB founder Shannon Walker was one of his veterinary clients, and when she shared her vision for the organization, he was immediately committed.
"I loved the idea and have a deep appreciation for Veterans," Dr. Atwell said. His connection to military service is personal — his father, stepmother, brother, uncle, and several close friends have all served. That relationship to service made NWBB's mission resonate on a level that went beyond professional support.
A professionally trained PTSD service dog must be in optimal health to perform its role reliably. During his years practicing full time, Dr. Atwell and his team at Orchards Veterinary Clinic provided comprehensive care to NWBB's dogs in training and foster — covering everything from routine wellness to diagnostics and treatment planning. That care was donated by the clinic for many years.
"Veterinary services strive to maintain optimal health in all animals," Dr. Atwell explained. "Based on a patient's history and using diagnostics, we are able to formulate treatment plans to optimize the health of each pet and promote longevity."
For PTSD service dogs specifically, he emphasizes maintaining healthy weight, proper nutrition, and consistent exercise — along with quality time for play and rest.
Your support through Operation Never Quit (ONQ) helps ensure NWBB can continue accessing the resources — including veterinary care — that keep these dogs mission-ready.
Dr. Atwell has attended NWBB graduation ceremonies and seen, up close, what a well-prepared PTSD service dog means to a Veteran's life.
"To see the impact the NWBB dogs have on their Veterans is one of the most heartwarming experiences of my life," he said. "I have heard many Veterans tell me how the dogs have given them confidence to go out into public again — to the mall, to the movies, and on cruises with their families."
Beyond veterinary care, NWBB’s impact inspired Eric to serve on the board for the organization. He and his wife Katy have also served as Guardians – caretakers of dogs used for breeding NWBB service dogs.
That transformation, from the clinic to the lives of American Heroes, is what makes the work meaningful.
“Eric and Katy Atwell are two people who are rare in the world today,” said NWBB founder Shannon Walker. “They have selflessly served NWBB for 30 years. Their contributions to our dogs’ health and Veterans set a standard of excellence that we continue today. Both are trusted friends and a significant part of the success that NWBB and our Service Dog Veteran Teams experience today.”
For Veterans who have received a PTSD service dog, Dr. Atwell offers straightforward advice: ask your community for recommendations, then schedule a visit to make sure you feel comfortable with the doctor. A strong relationship with a trusted veterinarian is part of giving your dog the long, healthy life it needs to keep serving you.
The work of Northwest Battle Buddies — and the partners who make it possible — depends on the generosity of people who believe American Heroes deserve support. NWBB provides professionally trained PTSD service dogs to Veterans at no cost, but that mission requires sustained resources.
Donate monthly to Operation Never Quit (ONQ) today and help ensure more Veterans receive the life-changing support they've earned.