Dr. Violet Nix founded Chateau Veterinary Hospital in 1984 with a clear mission: to provide the most advanced, compassionate care for pets while creating a welcoming environment for their families. Her vision was built on the understanding that the more you involve families in their pets’ care, the better it is for the animals themselves.
Dr. Nix graduated from LSU’s School of Veterinary Medicine in 1979. She began her practice in Augusta, Georgia, before returning to New Orleans to serve as medical director of the Louisiana SPCA Clinic. This experience working with shelter animals deepened her commitment to compassionate veterinary care, and she carried this commitment forward when she established Chateau Veterinary Hospital.
Professional Passion
Throughout her career, Dr. Nix particularly enjoyed working with new puppy and kitten owners, dedicating time to help foster successful relationships between pets and their families. She also specialized in diagnosing and developing treatment plans for complex medical conditions and took pride in guiding patients through successful surgeries. Pain management became an area of special interest for Dr. Nix, who firmly believed no patient should experience unnecessary pain. Her commitment to this principle led her to join the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management, allowing her to continually advance her knowledge in managing both acute and chronic pain conditions.
Under Dr. Nix’s leadership, Chateau Veterinary Hospital became Louisiana’s first Fear Free certified hospital and the nation’s second in April of 2018. This groundbreaking certification reflected her lifelong commitment to reducing stress and anxiety for pets and pet parents during veterinary visits.
A Legacy of Compassion
Dr. Nix’s unique approach has touched countless families throughout her career. Her vision has ensured Chateau Vet’s continued evolution, including a significant renovation and expansion of the clinic. The redesign created more examination and treatment spaces and actively incorporated features specifically aimed at reducing patient stress — furthering Dr. Nix’s commitment to fear-free veterinary care.
Dr. Nix’s dedication to excellence in veterinary medicine, compassionate patient care, and thoughtful client education has established a standard of care that continues to guide Chateau Veterinary Hospital today. While she has retired from practice, her legacy lives on in the values and approach that define our hospital every day. We wish her all the best for a joyous, restful, well-deserved retirement. Thank you, Dr. Nix, for making a difference in the lives of so many pets and people.
