Orange Grove Animal Hospital Welcomes Dr. Tallon Hawkins, DVM
TUCSON, AZ, [June 16, 2025] – Orange Grove Animal Hospital (OGAH) is thrilled to announce the newest addition to their veterinary team, Dr. Tallon Hawkins. Dr. Hawkins brings a unique blend of experience and a lifelong passion for both traditional farm animals and exotic species, further enhancing Orange Grove Animal Hospital's comprehensive care offerings.
Dr. Hawkins, a native of Pima, Arizona, grew up immersed in a rural lifestyle that ignited his love for animals. "I grew up on a property where we raised chickens for show, and was always surrounded by horses and cattle farms," says Dr. Hawkins. “It was an amazing, fun, rural country life.”
While his family focused on traditional farm animals, Dr. Hawkins developed a distinct fascination for exotics. "I was the 'oddball' in my family who always loved exotic animals," he recalls. "I had birds like macaws and cockatiels, and a variety of reptiles including tortoises, snakes, and lizards. I was always out 'herping' and exploring." This early passion for exotic animals, particularly reptiles and birds, has remained a driving force throughout his career.
Dr. Hawkins completed his undergraduate prerequisites at Eastern Arizona College before attending Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona, for his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. During his time at Midwestern, Dr. Hawkins gained extensive experience, particularly in surgery, thanks to the university's teaching hospital. He pursued a mixed animal track, focusing on both small animals like dogs and cats, and farm animals such goats, cattle, and pigs. Notably, he dedicated many of his elective rotations to exotic animal medicine, including avian and herpetology (reptile and amphibian) studies.
It was during one of these rotations that Dr. Hawkins connected with Orange Grove Animal Hospital and Dr. Walter Merker. "I actually met Dr. Merker through a funny coincidence," Dr. Hawkins explains. "I bought a blue-tongue skink from a breeder, who Dr. Merker was the veterinarian for. I ended up shadowing him and I immediately loved what I saw – a high percentage of exotic animals and a genuine family atmosphere."
Dr. Hawkins's decision to join Orange Grove Animal Hospital was solidified by the opportunity to work with a diverse range of animals and the supportive environment. "When I did my rotation here in March, I continued to see a significant number of exotic cases," he states. "Everyone at OGAH felt like family – they were incredibly nice, open, and I felt right at home. Dr. Merker and Dr. Holly are both very down-to-earth and easy to work with, as are all the employees."
With a deep passion for reptiles, Dr. Hawkins has extensive experience in reptile husbandry – he currently shares his home with approximately 80 reptile pets! Outside of his professional life, Dr. Hawkins is a dedicated family man, enjoying time with his wife and four young children. He also hopes to resume his involvement in strongman competitions with school coming to a close and enjoys board games with his family.
“We are beyond excited to have someone like Tallon join us at Orange Grove Animal Hospital” said Dr. Walter Merker, DVM and co-owner of OGAH. “Dr. Tallon’s unique expertise further strengthens our commitment to providing exceptional care for all creatures, great and small.”
About OGAH
Orange Grove Animal Hospital has been a cornerstone of veterinary care in Tucson, AZ since 1999, upholding a mission to provide the highest standard of care for pets and their owners, ensuring a happy and healthy life for all.
The hospital offers comprehensive medical services for a diverse range of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and many exotic patients. From routine check-ups, spaying and neutering, and dental care to advanced imaging and lab services, their experienced veterinarians are equipped to treat everything from the smallest reptile hatchling to the largest land tortoises, covering "anything with claws, paws, and tails!"
