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One Year of Gibson’s Paws, Claws & Crawls: A Reflection From Dr. Erika Gibson

ONE YEAR. Honestly, I’m not sure how we got here so fast. But I am so proud of our team for making it to this milestone.


A year ago, I purchased Treaschwig Veterinary Clinic, and with the ownership transition to Gibson’s Paws, Claws & Crawls Veterinary Hospital, we opened our doors to pet families in the Spring, Humble, and greater Houston area. I had a whole lot of excitement, a whole lot of nerves, and a whole lot of faith. Looking back now, I can say with my whole heart that this past year has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. But it has also been one of the hardest.


Opening a veterinary hospital is no small feat. Opening one without any prior business ownership experience? An even bigger challenge. Opening one as a Black woman in veterinary medicine? There were plenty of people who were ready to tell me exactly why I shouldn’t do it. Some people doubted me because I had never owned a business before. Some thought opening my own hospital would mean I would lose half of my clients. There were people who told me that changing the name of the hospital would make me lose even more clients. Others assumed I would end up buried in debt.


And honestly, I understood where some of those concerns came from. There were a lot of unknowns. But I also knew what I was capable of. I knew the kind of veterinarian I was and wanted to be. I knew the kind of hospital I wanted to build. Most importantly, I knew how much this community and the people and pets I serve mean to me. So I took the leap of faith.


And here we are, as a thriving successful family-run, successful Black- and woman-owned veterinary clinic one year later. Somehow, none of those things people predicted happened. Instead, we had an incredibly successful first year. We grew, we learned, we made mistakes, we celebrated wins, we worked long days, we figured things out as we went, and we built a team that I am genuinely proud of. We created something that feels like ours.


Gibson’s is more than a name on a building. It represents the heart, hard work, determination and effort that went into creating this hospital. It represents the belief I had in myself when there were plenty of reasons to be afraid. It represents the vision I had for a veterinary hospital where every pet matters, whether they have paws, claws, scales, feathers, fur or something a little more unusual.


One of my favorite parts of this past year has been the incredible variety of animals we've had the opportunity to care for. From dogs and cats to reptiles, birds, and all kinds of cool and exotic species, you have trusted us with some truly amazing members of your families. That trust means everything to me.


Especially because I know that many of you gave us a chance without knowing exactly what Gibson’s would become. Some of you had been coming to the clinic that was here before us for years. You had relationships there, routines there and experiences there. Then suddenly, there was a new name, a new owner and a new vision. You could have decided to go somewhere else. Instead, you gave us a chance.


You were patient with us as we figured things out. You gave us feedback. You allowed us to grow. You kept coming back. You told your friends and family about us. You trusted us with your pets. Little by little, we built a community together, and that is something I don't take lightly.


I also don't take lightly what it means to be a Black woman veterinarian and business owner. There still aren't enough Black veterinarians, and you certainly don't see many Black women owning veterinary hospitals. For a long time, I didn't have many people who looked like me to look up to in this space. So I understand the importance of representation in a very real way.


The odds were against me in a lot of ways, but they weren't greater than my determination. And I couldn't have done this alone.


To my family: my sister Daneatria, I’m forever grateful to have you serve as our Practice Manager. You are a steady voice and phenomenal operations leader, none of this veterinary magic happens without you. My brother Eugene, there’s no one else that could lead the clinic’s remodeling and ongoing maintenance. I’m so excited to see how you continue to beautify the clinic into a warm, bright space for all the pets and people that come through our doors. To my daughter, Nyla, this practice is the legacy I hope you grow proud of. Bringing you into the clinic is such a surreal and sweet experience that truly makes my heart smile. To my mother Cynthia, thank you for the wisdom, the love, and the peace of mind, knowing that my daughter is in great hands while I’m running the business. Love to all my extended family and friends who have supported us as well, whether you shared an Instagram post, brought your pet in, recommended us, or sent kind words — you are appreciated!


To my team: thank you for showing up, working hard and believing in what we're building. The long hours, the tears, the hard work, and the compassion you all show to our patients and clients doesn’t go unnoticed. You all make Gibson’s what it is today, and I am so grateful for each of you.


And to our clients and community: thank you! Thank you for trusting us, giving us a chance, being patient with us and bringing us your beloved pets. Thank you for letting us care for the animals that make your families complete. Thank you for recommending us, supporting us, celebrating with us and growing alongside us.

One year ago, I had a vision. Today, I get to walk into a hospital that exists because I was willing to take a chance on myself, and because so many of you were willing to take a chance on me. That means more than I can put into words. This year has flown by, but when I stop and think about everything that has happened, I realize just how much we've accomplished. One year down, and there is still so much I want to do, so much I want to learn and so much more I want Gibson’s to become.


For today, though, I’m going to take a moment to celebrate. I’m proud of what we built. I’m proud of how far we’ve come. And I’m incredibly grateful that you’ve been here with us for the journey.


Join Us for Our Community Block Party!



We are so excited to keep the celebration going with our community! Please join us for the Gibson’s Paws, Claws & Crawls Community Block Party on Sunday, August 30, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. It’s going to be a fun-filled afternoon for the whole family (pets included) with something for everyone.


Here is a sneak peek at what you can look forward to:


  • Meet Dr. Gibson and the Team: Stop by to chat, meet our staff, and ask any questions you have about your pet's care.

  • Local Vendor Booths: Shop and support small businesses from the area.

  • Pet and Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy fun games and spaces designed specifically for little humans and your animal companions, including a photo installation, arts & crafts, a foam party and so much more!

  • Music & Entertainment: Enjoy great vibes and music throughout the afternoon.

  • Food & Refreshments: Delicious local eats and treats to keep you energized.


We can’t wait to see you there and celebrate this one-year milestone together! RSVP here 🙂


Ready to Join the Gibson’s Family?


If you’re looking for compassionate care for your paws, claws, or everything else in between, we would love to meet you. To book an appointment:


  • Please call us at (281) 443-2626 (best for new clients) or visit our online portal at www.gibsonsvet.com (for existing clients only).


To our existing clients: your stories are the heartbeat of our clinic. If you’ve had a positive experience with us this year, would you please consider leaving a review? 


Sharing your story helps other pet parents in the Houston community find a home for their pet’s care, and it truly means the world to our team.







(for existing clients)



     

   

  

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