Longtime associate acquires 45-year veterinary practice

By Sandra Sarr, MFA

June 22, 2026

Dr. Danielle Fazio (Ä¢¹½tv 2016) has purchased Siegen Lane Animal Clinic in Baton Rouge, the practice where she has worked for the past 10 years alongside founder Dr. Philip Waguespack (Ä¢¹½tv 1980), who owned the clinic for 45 years. “I feel fortunate that Dr. Waguespack hired me so that I could stay in Baton Rouge where I grew up,â€� Dr. Fazio said.

Dr. Danielle Fazio with student Jashawn Ferrand

Dr. Danielle Fazio with Ä¢¹½tv Vet Med student Jashawn "Jay" Ferrand

Dr. Waguespack will remain involved in the practice, continuing to see patients one day a week and on select weekends.

Since assuming ownership, Dr. Fazio has updated the clinic with new dental X-ray equipment, expanded treatment space, and a renovated reception area. “We are looking to grow,� she said.

That growth includes adding new team members. In July 2026, Dr. Fazio will hire Dr. Haley Honoré (Ä¢¹½tv 2025), who is completing a shelter medicine internship at Ä¢¹½tv Vet Med. “Our goal is to keep Dr. Honoré throughout her veterinary career so that our clients and patients have continuity in who treats their pets,â€� she said.

The clinic will also continue to support veterinary students. In August 2026, Cassie Kuplesky, a member of Ä¢¹½tv Vet Med Class of 2027, will complete an externship at Siegen Lane Animal Clinic. “In smaller practices, new and aspiring veterinarians have the opportunity to receive personalized mentorship in a slower-paced, less-stressful environment,â€� she said.

That approach to mentorship is reflected in the experience of Ä¢¹½tv Vet Med student Jashawn “Jayâ€� Ferrand, pictured with Dr. Fazio. He first visited the clinic as a high school student during a Career Day, later joined the team as a veterinary technician, and is now on track to graduate in 2028 with a veterinary degree.

Also pictured is Blondie, now Birdie, who was adopted by the owners of Elsie’s Plate & Pie in Baton Rouge. The clinic provides two local rescue organizations with discounted veterinary services in an effort to help the community’s homeless animals get adopted. “Dr. Honoré has a passion for shelter medicine, and she will be able to provide these important services, along with seeing our other patients, in our community,� Dr. Fazio said.