It’s not every day a classroom guest has seven pairs of curious eyes locked on them because he’s both a parent and a professional. That’s exactly what happened when Dr. James Matousek, DVM, walked into Mrs. VanGees’ Pre-K classto talk about being a veterinarian.
The kids were buzzing with excitement—especially David, who got to proudly announce, “That’s my dad!” Dr. Matousek shared what veterinarians do, explained how to take care of pets, and answered a flood of questions from students eager to learn more.
A Career Built on Care
A 1997 graduate of Hennessey High School, Dr. Matousek earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Oklahoma State University in 2004. His career began in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, before he returned home to Hennessey, where he practiced for 14 years at Matousek Vet Clinic. In 2020, he expanded his reach by purchasing Wheatland Veterinary Hospital in Kingfisher, where he continues serving families and their animals.
Deep Roots in the Community
Alongside his veterinary work, Dr. Matousek and his wife, Sarah, married since 2004, are raising seven children: Jocelyn, JoHanna, Julianne, Jessica, Joy, Jane, and David. He also farms and ranches in the Hennessey area and has served on the Hennessey Board of Education for 14 years.
More Than a Classroom Visit
For the students, the visit wasn’t just about learning what veterinarians do—it was about seeing how someone from their own community turned passion into a career. And for Dr. Matousek, it was another way to give back to the town that raised him.
Thank you, Dr. Matousek, for taking the time to inspire the next generation of animal lovers.
Story by AAH, Shelley Muzny
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