Care that's been earned, one family at a time.
Carson Animal Hospital has grown into Acadiana's largest privately-owned animal hospital, still knowing every pet by name.
Medicine with a memory.
Our team combines AAHA-accredited standards and current diagnostic technology with something harder to measure: a staff that remembers your pet's history without opening a chart.
"Nothing means more to us than the trust our clients place in this hospital."
That trust is why we're Fear Free certified, why our boarding facility was rebuilt around comfort, and why so many Acadiana families have stayed with us for generations.
Our Full Story
A family-owned practice, four generations strong.
The same family has guided this hospital since it opened, and still sees patients today.
Skillful, Compassionate care
Dr. Jim R. Carson III
Dr. Carson III has been practicing veterinary medicine in Lafayette since 1981, after graduating from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in 1978. As the founder of Carson Animal Hospital, he built the clinic on compassionate care and strong community relationships. Outside of work, he's a father of three and grandfather of six who loves spending time on his farm tending to his cows.
Skillful, Compassionate care
Dr. Jim R. Carson IV
Dr. Carson IV grew up coming to the clinic with his veterinarian father and went on to earn his DVM from LSU in 2012, graduating with the Hershey Comeaux Memorial Award of Excellence. He joined Carson Animal Hospital in 2014 and later became its owner, with clinical interests spanning internal medicine, endoscopy, dentistry, and soft tissue surgery. Outside the clinic, he enjoys fly fishing and bird photography with his family and their golden retriever, Sasha.
Care for every stage, in one place.
From wellness visits to advanced orthopedic surgery, most of what your pet needs is handled right here, not referred elsewhere.
Soft Tissue Surgery
Advanced surgical care for your pet's internal organs — stomach, bladder, liver, and more — backed by careful, attentive post-op monitoring.
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Lateral Suture
Surgical repair for torn cranial cruciate ligaments relieves pain and restores knee stability so your pet can run and play freely again.
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Orthopedics
Expert diagnosis and treatment for bone, joint, ligament, and muscle conditions, helping pets of every age and breed move comfortably again.
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TPLO Surgery
Advanced TPLO and orthopedic surgery performed in-house by our experienced surgical team to relieve pain and restore your pet's mobility and long-term comfort.
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REVIEWS & TESTIMONIALS
When we first came to Carson’s, our Australian Shepherd had some major torn ligaments . We had received a very high quote for surgery and board from another vets office. We contacted Carson’s and made an appointment and from the moment they met Oakley and us, we were instantly at ease and knew they would be doing the surgery, whether they were less or not...Read More
- Greg Bryant -
The service at this veterinary clinic is truly phenomenal. From the moment you walk in, they make you feel like family and ensure your pets are exceptionally well cared for. Dr. Kelsie and the entire team go above and beyond to make sure you’re in good hands and that your pets are deeply loved. When I had to say goodbye to my beloved dog, they supported me with so much compassion and helped me through the process as peacefully as possible. I am truly grateful to have been able to trust Carson Animal Hospital with the care of Rocky.
- Qiqi McGraw -
I have no words to fully express the kindness and compassion shown by Carson Vet. I recently lost my Soul Dog to cancer, and the entire team has gone above and beyond to support me through one of the hardest times of my life. Dr. Erika and McKay are truly the BEST. The empathy, care, and constant check-ins meant the world to me. They loved Saul like he was theirs. Even with the challenges of dealing with pet insurance, they made everything so much easier... Read More
- kristina hawkins -
The veterinarians here are exceptional, and the facility itself is beautiful. Every technician is friendly and attentive, and they always treat my pup with the utmost care and compassion. It truly means a lot to see how well they care for their patients.
- Brookelynn Twenter -
My family, as well as my extended family and friends, have been bringing all of our pets to Carson Vet for 25+ years. The doctors, personalized care, customer service, and overall experience are top notch, and the new, state-of-art hospital and boarding facilities are truly impressive. In my opinion, this is the ONLY place for pet care in Acadiana.
- Ginger Dykes -
I've had many visits over the years to Carson Animal Hospital and have seen several doctors. Loved all of them, especially Dr. Courville. The entire staff is warm and friendly and (more importantly than me giving approval) my dog, Cooper, approves of everyone there. Thank you for your great service to all the animals you care for!
- Sally Creed -
The clinic's state-of-the-art facilities and advanced medical equipment further showcased their commitment to delivering top-notch care. Thanks to the expertise and dedication of the entire team, Max made a full recovery, and I couldn't be happier with the outcome. I highly recommend ABC Veterinary Clinic to any pet owner seeking exceptional veterinary care delivered with compassion and expertise.
- Patient's Name -
How we can help, before your visit.
New Client Forms
Fill out your paperwork online before you arrive to save time at check-in.
What to Bring
Prior records, current medications, and a list of questions for your doctor.
Payment Options
We accept CareCredit and Scratchpay to help make care more affordable.
Day-Of Questions
Call us any time before your visit, we're glad to walk through what to expect.
