Dr. Elston Atkins, commonly known to everyone as “Chat” is a long time Veterinarian serving the South Atlanta Metro. The owner of Forest Park Animal Hospital since 1997, Dr. Atkins turned his passion for all things “non-human” into a very successful and rewarding career. He knew he wanted to be a Veterinarian since he was a little boy, scaring his parents and siblings by bringing home every stray dog/cat/critters he found in his neighborhood. Dr. Atkins accepted a football scholarship to Tuskegee University because he had his sights set on their prestigious Veterinary school, and as soon as he was accepted his junior year, he focused on getting the most from his Professors, Internships (including Zoo
Atlanta) and learning with diverse classmates from all over the world. Dr. Atkins graduated from Veterinary School in 1998 and decided to focus on Small Animal Medicine with a few exotics thrown in. When the opportunity came to take over a Veterinary Practice that has been around for over 60 years, he eagerly accepted the challenge and has become a very well respected and much-loved member of the Lake City/Forest Park/Morrow business community. His 4-legged patients and their families love the care that he and the hospital staff provide.
Dr. Atkins has been married to his wife Suzanne for 30 years and they have a son (Kobe). They currently live in the City and are thoroughly enjoying in-town life. He is passionate about Golf, all Atlanta sports teams, with special love for the Falcons, Georgia Bulldogs and Hawks. Chat still loves going to work every day, even after all these years, and has no plans to slow down. It takes a special person to practice Veterinary Medicine, and he is a great example of turning your passion into a purposeful and rewarding life.