Rocconi celebrates two milestones

Monday, September 21, 2015

Dr. Jim Rocconi of Camden, Arkansas, is celebrating twice this year.

Rocconi has been practicing veterinary medicine on a full-time basis for 50 consecutive years and he is turning 75 on his birthday.

Rocconi earned his DVM degree from Oklahoma State University in 1965. He started his veterinary career in Little Rock, Arkansas, before moving to Camden. He opened the Camden Animal Hospital and 50 years later, he is still practicing veterinary medicine six days a week.

Over the years, Rocconi has treated numerous species from exotics to companion animals and almost everything in between. He actively promotes animal health and well-being in Camden. He supports the community by participating in yearly rabies vaccination clinics, Future Farmers of America livestock, the county humane society and working with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission on the treatment of native animal species.

“I have been very fortunate to have chosen a wonderful wife, a wonderful profession and a wonderful town to do what I love most — treat God’s creatures,” Rocconi said. “I consider it an honor to be able to provide health and happiness to my patients and their owners. In a small town like Camden, Arkansas, people aren’t clients, they are friends and family. Being a vet in a small town makes you a very special person to people. You are a doctor that people can relate to and depend on for the health and well-being of their animals.

"I consider myself the richest man in town, not by monetary standards but by the satisfaction in knowing that I have been able through my profession to help animals and their owners through some difficult times. I thank the good Lord for allowing me to have at least 50 years to fulfill my dreams.”

Rocconi and his wife, Teresa, reside in Camden. A drop-in reception open to the public will be held on Oct. 10, 2015, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Catherine’s located at 1024 W. Washington Street in Camden.