About Us

Discover Quality Pet Care at Virgil Animal Hospital

Our team of dedicated pet-care professionals welcomes you to Virgil Animal Hospital, led by the skilled veterinarian Dr. Derek Nichols. We founded our ideology on the premise that every creature is unique and deserving of love, affection, and the best care possible, using this drive to provide your beloved pets with the highest standard of care. Whether you are dealing with a health issue or looking for preventive care, we are ready to assist. Call us to schedule your pet’s appointment today.

Our Vision

Bring empowerment and awareness to our community to strengthen the sacred human-animal bond.

Our Mission

We utilize our knowledge and skills to build trust and genuine relationships so that our clients have the opportunity to live the longest and healthiest lives with their beloved pets.

Meet Our Team of Dedicated Animal-lovers

Through a commitment to providing high-quality healthcare resources to pets and their loving families, our veterinary team provides Virgil households with comprehensive services, including routine examinations, vaccinations, preventative care, surgery, and more. With a philosophy based on the improvement and maintenance of your pet’s wellbeing, we consistently provide accessible, friendly services to your family. All of our staff members are loyal pet owners and devout animal enthusiasts, affording us a sincere and compassionate approach to your pets’ treatment. For all medical care needs for your beloved pets, Virgil Animal Hospital is ready to assist.

Veterinarians

Dr. Derek Nichols,

Veterinarian, DVM

Education: Ontario Veterinary College

New Owner as of January 1st, 2022

Dr. Derek Nichols was born and raised in St. Catharines. He has an undergraduate degree in Zoology from the University of Guelph and graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2011. Dr. Derek returned to the Niagara region after graduation, where he has been practicing ever since.

He is a dedicated and passionate professional who loves surgery and assisting his furry friends while they are under his exceptional care. Building genuine and trusting relationships with his patients and their families is Dr. Derek’s number one priority. Additionally, he prioritizes continuing education in order to stay current on the most up-to-date medical practices and treatments.

Dr. Derek resides in the town of Virgil with his wife, Stephanie and their three boys, three cats, and two dogs. In his spare time, he can usually be found at the rink helping coach his sons’ hockey teams. He also enjoys playing hockey with his friends, waterskiing and relaxing by the lake in cottage country with his family.

Dr. Ron Mergl,

Veterinarian, BSc, DVM, MSc

In Honour of the Founder of Virgil Animal Hospital:

Hometown: Niagara-On-The-Lake

Dr. Ron Mergl had the idea to build a new hospital in Virgil and spent two years looking for the right site. Then, he and his wife, Dr. June Mergl, spent another two years building it and filling it with top-of-the-line equipment and staff to best serve the needs of the pets that were to walk through the doors. The result was a stunning new veterinary hospital that took off rapidly. Dr. Ron was very excited when Virgil Animal Hospital opened in November of 2019 and was looking forward to many years of service to the pets of Niagara.

Unfortunately, that was not to be. Sadly, Dr. Ron passed away in 2020 from a brain tumour. Born in Niagara, Dr. Ron Mergl graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1985 and practiced for over 36 years, always in Niagara.

He was also a generous supporter of the community with his philanthropic and volunteer work, and through the years, he gave much time, energy and financial resources to many charities and organizations too numerous to list. In 2015, Dr. Mergl was recognized by the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association with the Award of Merit. This award is presented to a veterinarian for outstanding veterinary service to both the local and global community. He leaves behind his wife, Dr. June, his three sons, and many beloved animals.

We miss you, Dr. Ron! Thank you for all you have done.

Angela Dupont-White

Office Manager

After working many years in human medicine, I decided I needed a change and applied to a few different veterinary clinics in the area. After being hired at Virgil Animal Hospital, I quickly learned how passionate I am about veterinary medicine and I wish I had made the switch earlier! My background in customer service and management has been very beneficial in ensuring the smooth operation of the clinic and making sure our clients feel heard and appreciated. I have a dog Patrick, whom many of our clients have met when he pops his head out from under my desk, as well as two bossy cats, Grace Kelly and Fred Astaire.
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Sarah Cruickshanks

Veterinary Assistant
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Joel Kelly

Registered Veterinary Technician

Born and raised in the Niagara region, Joel knew from an early age he wanted to work with animals. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Brock University in 2010 and then graduated from Ridgetown College Veterinary Technology Program in June of 2012. He became a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) with the OAVT in November of that year. He has been working in small animal practice since and continues to educate himself, taking a special interest in radiography, animal dentistry, canine behaviour and anesthesia. He also has a certification in basic dog obedience training. Joel lives in Beamsville with his wife Michelle, their two children, and their dog Daisy. When not in the clinic Joel enjoys spending time with his family, watching football, hockey, movies and working out.
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Sara Bellehumeur

RVT

Sara enthusiastically joins the Virgil Animal Hospital team with over 11 years experience as a registered veterinary technician. Surrounded by animals since a young age, she always knew she belonged in veterinary medicine. Helping those who can't speak for themselves is what drives her passion. Her special interests include anesthesia, dentistry and client education. She resides in the Niagara region with her beautiful family and two senior dogs Emma & Bailey. She looks forward to meeting each and everyone of your fur babies!

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