Grosse Pointe Park presents proclamation to longtime city vet

GROSSE POINTE PARK — For generations, pet parents have been entrusting the medical care of their ill or injured animals to Dr. Lawrence Herzog, of Grosse Pointe Animal Clinic in Grosse Pointe Park.

And, until last year, Herzog also opened the doors of his practice to care for pets that were found running loose in several of the Grosse Pointes, including Grosse Pointe City, Grosse Pointe Farms and the Park. For serving as the Park’s city veterinarian from 1982 to 2023, the city presented Herzog with a proclamation in his honor at a meeting Jan. 8.

“We’re so glad to have the two-legged person who helps our four-legged residents stay healthy,” Mayor Michele Hodges said.

Herzog, who graduated from the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1975, thanked officials for the proclamation, which was approved by a unanimous vote of the Park City Council.

“It’s been just a pleasure to work in Grosse Pointe Park,” said Herzog.

Herzog said he’s proud to have lived and worked in the Park for the last four decades and to have raised his children there. He’s been a Park resident since 1983.

The proclamation recognized Herzog for his “generous, selfless service and actions over the last 40 years” and the “positive and everlasting impact on the quality of life for pets and pet owners” he and his clinic have given the community.

“When I think of you, Dr. Herzog, the word ‘honor’ comes to mind,” Hodges said. “We very much appreciate your (work) over the years. … Thank you again to the Herzog family for being such an important part of our community.”

Herzog may no longer be providing regular housing for lost pets and strays — he concluded that part of his career in 2023 — but that doesn’t mean he’s no longer caring for the community’s sick animals.

“For the record, I’m not retiring,” Herzog said with a smile.

City Councilman Martin McMillan shared some additional insight into the doctor by noting that Herzog is “not only a great veterinarian,” but he’s also “one of the best fly fishermen you’ve ever seen.”