Education: Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine
Hometown: Somerset Kentucky
Dr. VanDerPloeg earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from Eastern Kentucky University and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree from Auburn University. Upon graduation, Dr. VanDerPloeg began his career at Somerset Animal Hospital treating many animal species ranging from dogs, cats, horse, cow, sheep, goats, and the occasional exotic pet such as a snake, hamster, or guinea pigs for the Somerset community. In, 2014 Dr. VanDerPloeg decided to pursue his dream and built Veterinary Center of Somerset.
Dr. VanDerPloeg is married to Connie VanDerPloeg, a Ferguson native. They have two boys Clay (21) and Conner (17), 4 dogs (Coal- a Labrador Retriever, Newton- a German Short-Hair Pointer, Haven- a Genuine Kentucky Mutt, and Weller Rose- a Labrador Retriever), 1 cat (Billie) and a snake named Sandie.
Dr. VanDerPloeg’s hobbies include outdoor activities such as duck hunting, bass fishing, shooting sporting clays and watching his boys, Clay and Conner, play baseball. He also enjoys collecting guns and is an avid Auburn and Chicago Bears fan.
Dr. VanDerPloeg works closely with multiple non-profit organizations in the community. He participates in the low cost spay/neuter program at the Pulaski County Humane Society, he spays and neuters multiple dogs and cats for the Pulaski County Animal Shelter before adoption. He also treats and examines injured exotic animals such as bald and golden eagle, numerous hawks and owls, and Evan a bobcat for the Liberty Nature Center. He is also a very active member of the Lake Cumberland chapter of Duck unlimited.
